When we think about what makes a great guitar, we often focus on components like the strings, pickups, and the body. However, there is another feature of a guitar that might also have an effect on its sound quality that is often overlooked, and that’s the finish.
That’s right, the kind of finish that your guitar has can affect its tone quality, resonance and even its playability. In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the world of guitar finishes, examining how they work, the different types of finishes available, and what impact they can have on your guitar sound.
What is guitar finish?
The finish on a guitar is the outermost layer that protects the wood beneath from scratches, scuffs, and moisture. The finish serves two primary purposes – to protect the guitar and to enhance its appearance. It is applied to the guitar’s body and neck and can be made up of various materials, including polyurethane, nitrocellulose, and polyester.
Polyurethane is one of the most common finishes for guitars today, due to its durability, chemical resistance, and ease of application. This finish creates a hard and glossy surface that’s more resistant to wear and tear.
Nitrocellulose finish, on the other hand, is the original type of finish used on guitars in the 1950s and 1960s, and it’s still used today. Unlike polyurethane, nitrocellulose is a thinner and softer finish that allows the wood to resonate and breathe more naturally.
How does guitar finish affect sound?
The finish on a guitar is not just an aesthetic consideration; it can also have an impact on the sound of the instrument. This is because the finish can either enhance or hinder the resonance of the guitar’s wood.
A thick and hard finish like polyurethane can dampen the vibration of the wood, resulting in a less resonant sound. On the other hand, a thinner, more flexible finish like nitrocellulose allows the wood to vibrate more freely, resulting in a more resonant and open sound.
Gloss or Satin – which is better for tone?
One of the most common dilemmas among guitarists is whether to choose a guitar with a gloss or satin finish. Does it really matter?
A glossy finish can be appealing to the eyes as it gives the guitar that classic shine and it can make more visible the natural grain pattern of the wood, but that does not necessarily mean that it is better for tone. In fact, a glossy finish can often have a dampening effect on the guitar’s sound as it is less conducive to resonating.
A satin finish, on the other hand, is smooth to the touch as it provides a non-shiny texture on the guitar’s body and neck. Satin finishes do not have a thick layer of varnish that glossy finishes have and they allow for the wood to vibrate more freely, resulting in the sound being much clearer and more resonant.
So, when it comes to choosing between a gloss and satin finish, it ultimately comes down to a matter of personal preference. If you prioritize the guitar’s appearance, then a gloss finish may be the way to go. But, if you’re interested in the guitar’s sound quality, then a satin finish may be your best option.
Other Factors that can affect a guitar’s sound quality
Even though the guitar finish has an impact on the sound quality, other factors can also affect the tone and resonance of the guitar, including:
The type of wood of the guitar body
The type of wood plays a significant role in determining the guitar’s overall sound quality. For instance, mahogany is known for producing a warm tone, while maple produces a brighter, more focused sound.
The thickness of the guitar body
The thickness of the guitar body can also affect the sound quality. A thicker body tends to produce more sustain and warmth, while a thinner body provides a brighter and more focused sound.
The type of pickups
The type of pickups on a guitar can greatly affect the sound as they transform the vibration of the strings into an electrical signal that amplifiers process. Some pickups, such as single-coil pickups, produce a brighter, twangy sound while others like humbucker pickups produce a warmer and thicker sound.
Conclusion
When we buy a guitar, we focus on the tonewoods, pickups, and other components that can affect the sound. But, the guitar finish is often overlooked when it comes to the sound quality. The truth is, the finish can alter the resonance and tone of the guitar, particularly when it comes to the gloss or satin finish. While gloss may look good, it can dampen the sound, while a satin finish can lead to a clearer and more resonant sound.
However, the finish is not the only factor that determines the sound of a guitar. The type of wood and pickups used also plays a significant role in the overall sound quality. Choosing the right guitar will always be a matter of personal preference, but understanding how different factors affect the sound will help you make an informed decision in choosing your next guitar.
Image Credit: Pexels