For those who are not aware, woods and design affect each other. That’s why some prefer cedar, while others opt for spruce.
Cedar guitars are known to produce fuller sound, but this isn’t always the case; sometimes, the design can also contribute to the fullness of sounds.
Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each could also help in making a final decision.
Presenting, Spruce top vs. Cedar top
Sound Produced by Spruce
Spruce has a very direct sound that it can be compared to a golden bell-like sound. For some musicians, the sound it produces is a clearer, balanced, and more sustained. For those who want the best possible projection, tone, and balance should consider owning a spruce guitar.
Sound Produced by Cedar
Cedar guitars are usually darker, warmer, and fuller sounding than spruce guitars. Likewise, even though they don’t have the ability of projecting directly, they can still fill a room with lots of sound easily. They’re easier to play and are usually more responsive, that’s why it’s ideal for beginners and students who are just starting to learn how to play this instrument.
Which Is Better
Those who are used to spruce usually prefer it more than cedar, and those who use cedar prefer it more. Usually, it has something to do with the sound expected to be produced, and the different techniques needed to obtain the best sounds from each.
Pricing
For cedar guitars, the good cedar is usually more affordable than good spruce. Likewise, cedar is easier to find and it’s always easy to buy one at a reasonable price– that’s why it’s perfect for students. Some believe that the difference between Spruce and Cedar guitar is the sound, where cedar has a more mellow sound, while cedar has a darker sound.
For beginners, it’s really hard to tell the difference between the two, and it’s important to pay attention to the quality playability, and affordability instead.
The Top Part
The top part is considered to be one of the most essential contributors. Wherein, solid top is usually better than laminate top and when it comes to Cedar or Spruce, a lot of people consider Cedar to be better, because it’s capable of producing better sound quality.
The Most Obvious Difference
The most noticeable difference between the two is the appearance. Spruce guitars have a light blonde color that it’s close to amber tint. On the other hand, cedar is usually darker and appears in various shades of brown.
More often than not, it’s important to allot some time to adapt the ideal right hand follow-through to easily compliment each wood. Also, there’s a tactile difference here, such as the development of note in cedar.
For most players, it’s not that difficult to notice the differences, but the listener can easily be fooled. Like what has been mentioned earlier, spruce produced clearer sound, while cedar is more punchier.
