If you’re a guitar player, you know that a great playing experience is all about your fingers flying across the fretboard with ease. But did you know that the finish you choose for your guitar can actually impact how fast your fingers travel across the fretboard? In this blog post, we’re going to explore which guitar finish is best for making your fingers travel on the fretboard faster.
First off, let’s talk about the different types of finishes that you can choose from. There are four main types of guitar finishes; gloss, satin, nitrocellulose, and polyurethane. Each of these finishes has unique characteristics that can impact your playing experience.
Gloss Finish
The most common type of guitar finish is the gloss finish. This finish is created by adding a layer of clear coat on top of the wood. As the name suggests, the finish has a high-gloss appearance which gives the guitar a shiny and polished look. The advantage of a gloss finish is that it is very durable and can withstand scratches and dings. This finish is found on almost all types of guitars, from beginner models to high-end guitars.
However, one of the disadvantages of a gloss finish is that it can be sticky, particularly in hotter or more humid environments. This could cause your fingers to drag across the fretboard which can, in turn, slow down your playing. Additionally, the reflective property of the finish can make it difficult to see the fret markers, particularly in bright lights.
Satin Finish
The second type of finish is satin, also known as a matte finish. This finish has a more subdued, satin-like appearance that is less shiny than a gloss finish. The advantage of a satin finish is that it is less prone to smudging and fingerprints, and it feels more natural to the touch than a gloss. Additionally, the satin finish provides a better grip for your fingers as it has a less slippery feel than a gloss finish.
One of the disadvantages of a satin finish is that it is less durable than a gloss finish. As it has a more porous surface, it is prone to showing scratches and dings more easily. Additionally, the satin finish can make your guitar look a bit cheaper than a gloss finish.
Nitrocellulose Finish
The third type of finish is nitrocellulose. This type of finish was widely used on guitars in the 1950s and 1960s and is still used on many high-end guitars today. Nitrocellulose finishes have a thinner coat than other finishes, which allows the wood beneath to breathe and resonate more freely. This can enhance the sound quality and sustain of your guitar.
One of the advantages of a nitrocellulose finish is that it has a very smooth feel that is almost like a waxed surface. This can help your fingers fly across the fretboard with ease. Additionally, the thin coat of nitrocellulose does not interfere with the tone of the wood.
The disadvantage of a nitrocellulose finish is that it is not as durable as a gloss or polyurethane finish. It is more prone to cracking and chipping, particularly in more humid environments. Additionally, nitrocellulose finishes can yellow over time which can change the appearance of your guitar.
Polyurethane Finish
The fourth type of finish is polyurethane. This finish is the most durable of all the finishes and is often used on guitars that are designed for heavy use such as electric guitars played in rock and metal bands. The polyurethane finish has a hard, rigid feel that can feel slippery to the touch.
The advantage of a polyurethane finish is that it is extremely durable and can withstand almost any amount of wear and tear. This finish can help your guitar stay looking new for longer periods of time. Additionally, the hard surface of the finish can help to protect your guitar from scratches and dings.
However, the disadvantage of a polyurethane finish is that it can have a negative impact on the guitar’s tone. As the finish is so thick, it can interfere with the resonance of the wood and can make the guitar sound less natural than it would with a thinner finish. Additionally, the hard surface of the finish can make it difficult for your fingers to move quickly across the fretboard.
So Which Finish is Best?
As you can see, each type of finish has its own unique properties that can impact your playing experience. However, if you want a finish that will make your fingers fly across the fretboard with ease, a nitrocellulose finish is probably the best choice. Its smooth, wax-like surface is perfect for fast passages, and the thin coat does not interfere with the tone of the wood.
If you’re looking for a more durable finish that will withstand heavy use, a polyurethane finish is the best choice. However, be aware that the hard surface of the finish could impede your finger speed.
Ultimately, the choice of finish depends on your personal preferences and playing style. If you’re unsure which finish is best for you, try out different guitars with different finishes to see which one feels the best to you.
In conclusion, the finish you choose for your guitar can have a significant impact on how fast your fingers travel across the fretboard. Whether you prefer the smooth feel of nitrocellulose or the durability of polyurethane, there is a finish out there that will suit your playing style. So go out and experiment with different finishes to find the one that is right for you!
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