The top, or soundboard, is the most important contributor to the sound of the guitar. The critical factors seem to be that the top wood is stiff, yet light, and able to transmit sound without absorbing all of the sound energy. Traditionally, spruces are used due to their very high stiffness-to-weight ratios. And their ability to transmit sound quickly from end to end, their velocity. Some woods soak up sound and produce a dull thud when stuck. This is damping, which has uses in lutherie, but not for top woods. Other woods are resonant, crisp, and ring with a "bell-like" tone. The longer the Read more [...]