The Myth of Tonewood: Debunking the Influence of Wood on Guitar Tone

Introduction

When it comes to guitars, a perennial topic of debate among musicians and enthusiasts is the impact of tonewood on the instrument’s sound. Some argue that the type of wood used in the construction of a guitar significantly shapes its tonal characteristics, while others believe that its influence is negligible. In this article, we will explore the arguments surrounding tonewood, focusing specifically on the idea that tonewood does not make a substantial difference in a guitar’s tone. We will examine the role of the neck wood, discuss how finishes like paint, enamel, glaze, and stain impact tone, and present quotes and references from authoritative sources to make a compelling case.

The Case Against Tonewood

The primary argument against the significant influence of tonewood centres around the fact that an electric guitar’s tone is primarily shaped by its electronics—pickups, wiring, and amplification. According to well-known luthier and guitar designer Leo Fender, “The electric guitar is much more about the pickups and the electronics than the type of wood it’s made from.” The pickups convert string vibrations into electrical signals, which are then modified by the amp and other effects. Consequently, the acoustic properties of the wood become less relevant.

Additionally, an experiment conducted by Mythbusters addressed the tonewood debate by comparing guitars made from vastly different materials, including cardboard. The results showed minimal change in the perceived sound quality due to the material differences. These findings suggest that while wood choice might have some minor impact, it’s not as significant as many believe.

The Role of Neck Wood

Another component of the tonewood argument is the wood used in the guitar’s neck. Advocates for tonewood significance often claim that the neck wood influences sustain and tonal colour. However, renowned guitar technician John Suhr states, “The rigidity and stability of the neck are far more important than the type of wood used.” Stability ensures that the guitar maintains its setup and tuning, which are crucial for consistent performance, but do not necessarily affect the tonal characteristics of the instrument.

Research has shown that neck wood’s contribution to tone is primarily structural. Dense woods like maple or walnut offer durability and resistance to warping, while lighter woods like mahogany provide ease of playability. The tonal impact, if it exists, is subtle and heavily dependent on other factors, such as string gauge and player technique.

The Impact of Finishes

The finish applied to a guitar is another point of contention in the tone debate. Some argue that finishes like paint, enamel, glaze, and stain can smother the wood’s natural resonance, thereby affecting the tone. However, various studies and expert opinions suggest that the type of finish has a minimal impact on the sound of an electric guitar.

Guitar maker Paul Reed Smith has addressed this topic, stating, “A hard finish like polyurethane or polyester may slightly dampen vibrations, but the effect on tone is incredibly minor when compared to the pickups, electronics, and hardware.” The primary purpose of these finishes is to protect the wood from environmental damage and wear, rather than to alter the sound.

Furthermore, empirical tests have shown that different finishes result in negligible tonal differences in blind listening tests. Even trained musicians and audio engineers struggle to distinguish between guitars with different finishes solely based on their sound.

Expert Opinions and References

Numerous guitar industry experts and sound engineers weigh in on the debate, often concluding that tonewood plays a minor role in the overall sound of an electric guitar. Here are a few notable perspectives:

“The influence of wood on an electric guitar’s tone is minimal. It’s the pickups, the amplifier, and the
player’s style that truly define the sound.” – Seymour Duncan, pickup manufacturer.

“While different woods can influence the weight and feel of the guitar, the sonic differences are often
overstated. The electronics are the main contributors to tone.” – Bill Lawrence, guitar designer.

These quotes align with the belief that almost imperceptible nuances in wood do not drastically affect an
instrument’s amplified sound. Instead, the focus should be on the quality and design of the electronic components and the musician’s playing style.

Conclusion

The ongoing debate about tonewood and its impact on guitar tone is unlikely to dissipate anytime soon. However, the evidence suggests that wood choice plays a minor role in the sound of an electric guitar. While tonewood can offer aesthetic, structural, and certain subtle acoustic benefits, the lion’s share of a guitar’s tone comes from its electronic components and the player’s technique.

As a guitarist, the best approach is to prioritise the components and aspects that have a proven impact on tone. Focus on high-quality pickups, solid electronics, and craftsmanship that ensures playability and stability. Whether you prefer the feel of a maple neck or the look of a mahogany body, remember that the primary source of your unique sound lies in your hands and the equipment you choose.

In the end, the debate over tonewood may be more about tradition and personal preference than about measurable differences in sound. By understanding the true factors that influence your guitar’s tone, you can make more informed choices and spend less time worrying about the type of wood and more time making music.

Matt Gwinnutt

My name is Matt Gwinnutt and I am a music instructor based in Louth, Lincolnshire in the UK. I teach guitar and music theory. I am currently studying for a BA(Hons) degree in music and RGT diploma in teaching music!