Does it make a difference?
The acoustic guitar is an amazing instrument with two prevalent ways to construct the body. One uses solid wood and the other uses laminate wood. Solid wood is just that, it’s a single piece of wood that is used to form the back and sides of the guitar body. The second type of construction is laminate and that is where multiple pieces of thin wood are glued together under high pressure, forming a thicker piece of wood. The sides and back form the sound box, which not only vibrates, but also projects the sound from the guitar. In terms of the top, almost all acoustic guitars use a solid top, which is another part of the guitar that vibrates and resonates.
So, what are the advantages of solid wood guitars over laminate wood guitars? Solid wood body construction, is more resonant than laminate wood body construction. In addition, as solid wood ages, more moisture is removed and the wood gets lighter and more resonant, producing a sweeter tone. Solid wood construction, is generally more expensive than laminate construction, as it’s also the esthetic part of the guitar. Mahogany, rosewood and other tone woods are chosen for not only their sound, but their beauty.
So, what advantages does laminate construction have over solid wood construction? It’s much more tolerant of temperature and humidity swings than solid wood construction. This leads to better tuning stability. I can attest to this, as I have performed with both guitar types at the same gig and noticed the laminate constructed guitar held its tuning better than the solid wood guitar. Practically speaking, the laminate constructed guitar body can probably take a lot more bumps and bruises than the solid wood guitar. It’s layered construction, is much like the plywood that is on the floors or the roof of your house.
If you want to learn more about solid wood versus laminate wood constructed guitars, check out this article on affordable solid wood guitars. Have an amazing day.