PLYWOOD GUITARS
These instruments have a plywood top, back
and ribs are laminate.
The laminate materials are generally constructed
in three layers.
The thinner outer layers are made of more expensive
woods, while the thicker core layer is made of less
expensive wood.
The acoustic properties of this sandwich are
determined by the core layer wood, while the outer
layer wood is chosen primarily for its appearance.
This construction is used in less expensive
instruments where the demand for quality sound is not
as high.
An undisputable advantage of laminate construction
instruments is their high resistance to damage by physical
abuse or by unfavorable climatic conditions.
These instruments are widely played by jazz musicians,
who take the advantage of their acoustic “imperfections”
to create a specific tonal effect.
SEMI - SOLID GUITARS
Semi - Solid guitars are instruments with solid tops and plywood backs and ribs.
This construction is an acceptable compromise between sound and price.
SOLID WOOD GUITARS
These instruments are constructed
with solid tops, backs and ribs. Solid wood provides a complete
tonal spectrum.
The choice of specific woods and the construction methods
influences the final sound of the instrument.
Solid wood demands meticulous preparation before and during
construction. Because musical instrument requires
the highest material quality, solid wood guitars are more expensive.
Material, used on master quality instruments, where excellent
sound and aesthetic perfection are necessary conditions, is mostly rare and abnormally expensive.