Exploring the Sound Differences: Spruce Top vs. Cedar Top Acoustic Guitars

The choice between a spruce top and a cedar top acoustic guitar often comes down to personal preference and the type of music one enjoys playing. In this article, we'll delve into the distinctive characteristics of each type and explore why some players might prefer one over the other.

Understanding Tone Profiles

When it comes to tone production, the difference between a spruce top and a cedar top acoustic guitar can be quite noticeable. Spruce is prized for its bright and clear sound, while cedar offers a warmer and richer bottom end. Some enthusiasts note that cedar guitars tend to have less high frequencies, which can result in a darker and more mellow sound.

Spruce Top Acoustic Guitars

Brighter overall tone with enhanced treble frequencies. Stronger attack and a wider range of frequencies. Usually louder and more voluminous. Stiffer material, leading to a crisper and more articulate sound.

Spruce is the go-to choice for players who prefer a brighter sound with more high-frequency sparkle. Whether it's for strumming or fingerstyle playing, spruce guitars can offer a lively and dynamic sound.

Cedar Top Acoustic Guitars

Warmer and more resonant sound. Milder attack with a more mellow overall tone. Richer in lower frequencies, resulting in a darker sound. Softer and gentler tonal characteristics.

Cedar tops are commonly favored for their warm and rich mid-range frequencies. They tend to have a softer and more mellow sound, making them ideal for melancholic music or delicate fingerstyle playing. The cedar's less pronounced high frequencies contribute to a tolerable and soothing tone.

Physical Characteristics and Construction

The difference in sound between spruce and cedar tops can be attributed to their distinct physical properties. Cedar is naturally softer and more flexible, which affects the way it vibrates the strings and produces sound. To compensate for the reduced stiffness, a cedar-top guitar might require thicker wood or heavier bracing to maintain the necessary structural integrity.

On the other hand, spruce is known for its stiffness and strength. This property allows for a faster and more immediate response when the strings are plucked. Consequently, spruce guitars often produce a more defined and sharp attack, with a wider range of acoustic tones.

Personal Preferences and Applications

The choice between a spruce top and a cedar top is ultimately a matter of personal taste. What one player considers "better" may be different from another's preferences. Here are some scenarios where one type might be more suitable:

Scenario 1: Martin Dreadnought

If you envision a heavily strummed or plectrum-played guitar, a spruce top might be the right choice. Martin dreadnought guitars, known for their powerful sound, are often spruce-topped to amplify the high frequencies and produce a robust and resonant tone.

Scenario 2: Delicate Fingerstyle Play

For those who prefer softer and more delicate fingerstyle play, cedar might be the better choice. The warm and mellow sound of a cedar guitar can complement the subtlety of fingerstyle techniques, creating a more soothing and rich musical experience.

Personal Experiences and Insights

Some players have shared their personal experiences with both spruce and cedar top guitars. For instance, the author of this article has played both a Yamaha Compass CPX5 and CPX8, with the CPX5 featuring a cedar top. Although the CPX5 was noticeably warmer, the author still appreciates the brightness and clarity of the spruce top guitar.

The softness and gentleness of the cedar-founded sound can be highly appealing, especially for certain musical styles. As one player put it, 'The first time I played a cedar-topped acoustic, I was in love.' This sentiment highlights how the warmer and more resonant qualities of a cedar top can evoke a sense of comfort and personal connection in the playing experience.