Cedar Top Guitars: Everything You Need To Know

Hey guys! If you're diving into the world of guitars, you've probably heard the term "cedar top." But what does it really mean? Why are cedar top guitars so popular? And is a cedar top the right choice for you? Let's break it down in a way that's super easy to understand, even if you're just starting out. This guide will cover everything from the tonal characteristics of cedar to how it compares with other tonewoods, helping you make an informed decision for your next guitar purchase.

What is a Cedar Top Guitar?

So, what exactly is a cedar top guitar? The top, or soundboard, of a guitar is the main part that vibrates and produces sound. The type of wood used for the top has a huge impact on the guitar's tone. Cedar, specifically Western Red Cedar, is a popular choice for guitar tops because of its unique tonal properties. Unlike spruce, which is another common top wood, cedar has a warmer, mellower sound right from the get-go. This means you don't have to "break it in" as much to get that sweet sound. Cedar is also known for its responsiveness, vibrating easily and producing a rich, full tone even with a light touch. This makes it a favorite among fingerstyle players and those who appreciate nuanced playing styles. When considering the construction of a cedar top guitar, it’s essential to understand that the wood's density and stiffness play a crucial role in shaping the instrument's overall sonic profile. Cedar, being a softer wood compared to spruce, tends to vibrate more freely, resulting in a warmer and more immediate sound projection. This characteristic makes cedar an excellent choice for guitarists who prioritize a rich and complex tonal palette, especially in the lower and mid-range frequencies. The responsiveness of cedar also means that it can translate subtle playing dynamics with exceptional clarity, making it a favored option for fingerstyle guitarists and players who employ a delicate touch. Moreover, the visual appeal of cedar, with its reddish-brown hue and distinctive grain patterns, adds to the aesthetic allure of guitars crafted with this tonewood. Whether it’s a classical guitar or an acoustic-electric model, the cedar top not only contributes to the instrument's sound but also its overall visual elegance. For beginners and seasoned players alike, understanding the unique qualities of cedar can significantly enhance their appreciation for the nuances of guitar craftsmanship and tonal possibilities.

The Unique Sound of Cedar

The sound of a cedar top is often described as warm, rich, and mellow. Imagine a sound that's less bright and punchy than spruce, but more full and complex. This warmth comes from cedar's ability to produce strong overtones, which are the subtle, harmonic frequencies that add depth and color to a note. Think of it like adding a little bit of spice to a dish – the overtones give the sound a richer flavor. Cedar guitars tend to have a quicker response than spruce, meaning they vibrate easily and produce sound with less effort. This makes them great for players with a lighter touch or those who play fingerstyle. Fingerstyle playing, where you pluck the strings with your fingers instead of a pick, benefits greatly from the responsiveness of cedar. You can get a lot of sound and expression with minimal effort. However, this responsiveness also means that cedar tops can be a bit more easily overdriven if you play very aggressively. So, if you're a hard-strumming rocker, you might find that cedar doesn't hold up as well as a stiffer wood like spruce. The tonal characteristics of cedar are deeply rooted in its physical properties. Cedar's lower density and greater flexibility compared to spruce allow it to vibrate more readily, resulting in a sound that is both warm and immediate. This vibrant resonance is particularly noticeable in the mid-range frequencies, where cedar guitars often exhibit a lush and complex sonic texture. The wood's ability to generate strong overtones further enhances its tonal richness, creating a sound that is both captivating and nuanced. For guitarists who appreciate intricate harmonies and subtle dynamic variations, the cedar top offers a sonic canvas that is highly expressive and rewarding. While cedar's responsiveness is a significant advantage for fingerstyle players and those with a delicate touch, it also presents certain considerations for players with a more aggressive playing style. The quicker response of cedar means that it can reach its maximum volume potential more easily, which may result in a compressed or muddy sound if pushed too hard. This is why cedar tops are often favored in instruments designed for more intimate settings or recording environments where tonal clarity and detail are paramount. Ultimately, the unique sound of cedar is a blend of its inherent warmth, rich overtones, and exceptional responsiveness, making it a compelling choice for guitarists seeking a distinctive and expressive voice for their instrument.

Cedar vs. Spruce: Which is Right for You?

Okay, so cedar sounds awesome, but how does it stack up against spruce, the other big player in guitar top woods? Spruce is generally brighter and louder than cedar. It has a clearer, more focused sound with a strong fundamental tone. Think of spruce as the all-purpose workhorse – it's great for a wide range of playing styles and genres. It's also known for its dynamic range, meaning it can handle both soft and loud playing with ease. Cedar, on the other hand, is warmer and mellower, with a more complex overtone structure. It's more responsive to a light touch and excels in fingerstyle playing. But it can be a bit more easily overdriven if you play aggressively. So, how do you choose? It really depends on your playing style and the sound you're after. If you're a fingerstyle player or you prefer a warm, intimate sound, cedar is a fantastic choice. If you're a strummer or you need a guitar that can cut through a mix, spruce might be a better fit. Another thing to consider is the type of music you play. Cedar is often favored for classical, fingerstyle, and folk music, while spruce is a popular choice for bluegrass, country, and rock. But these are just general guidelines – there are no hard and fast rules. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to play guitars with both cedar and spruce tops and see which one speaks to you. When comparing cedar and spruce, it’s helpful to understand that each wood offers a distinct sonic personality that caters to different musical needs and preferences. Spruce, with its bright and articulate tone, is renowned for its clarity and projection. This makes it an ideal choice for guitarists who need their instrument to cut through a mix, whether in a live performance or a recording setting. The strong fundamental tone of spruce provides a solid foundation for a wide range of musical styles, from the driving rhythms of bluegrass to the complex harmonies of jazz. Additionally, spruce’s ability to maintain tonal integrity across a wide dynamic range makes it a versatile option for players who vary their attack intensity. On the other hand, cedar’s warm and mellow tone offers a more intimate and inviting sonic character. Its complex overtones add depth and richness to the sound, creating a palette that is particularly well-suited for fingerstyle playing and solo performances. The responsiveness of cedar to a light touch allows for nuanced expression, making it a favorite among guitarists who value subtlety and detail in their playing. While cedar may not project as loudly as spruce, its ability to translate delicate playing dynamics with exceptional clarity makes it a compelling choice for styles where tonal complexity and warmth are prioritized. In essence, the choice between cedar and spruce comes down to the individual guitarist’s preferences and musical goals. By understanding the unique sonic qualities of each tonewood, players can make an informed decision that aligns with their artistic vision and playing style.

Types of Cedar Used in Guitars

Not all cedar is created equal! The most common type used in guitar tops is Western Red Cedar. This cedar is known for its warm, responsive tone and beautiful reddish-brown color. It's relatively soft and lightweight, which contributes to its quick response and overtone-rich sound. Spanish Cedar is another type of cedar used in guitar making, though it's more commonly used for necks and linings rather than tops. Despite its name, Spanish Cedar is actually a type of mahogany and not a true cedar. It's prized for its stability, lightweight, and resistance to moisture. This makes it an excellent choice for the parts of the guitar that need to be strong and stable. You might also encounter other types of cedar, such as Port Orford Cedar, which is sometimes used for bracing. Bracing is the internal structure that supports the guitar top and helps to shape its sound. Port Orford Cedar is known for its stiffness and strength, making it a good choice for bracing. When considering the different types of cedar used in guitar construction, it’s essential to recognize the specific properties that each variety brings to the instrument. Western Red Cedar, the most commonly used cedar for guitar tops, is prized for its exceptional tonal qualities. Its warm, responsive sound is characterized by a rich overtone structure and a quick response to the player's touch. The wood's reddish-brown color and attractive grain patterns also contribute to the visual appeal of guitars crafted with Western Red Cedar tops. The relatively soft and lightweight nature of this cedar allows it to vibrate freely, resulting in a sound that is both complex and immediate. Spanish Cedar, despite its name, is not a true cedar but rather a type of mahogany. It is widely used in guitar making for necks, linings, and other structural components due to its stability, lightweight, and resistance to moisture. These qualities make it an ideal choice for parts of the guitar that need to withstand the stresses of regular playing and environmental changes. The use of Spanish Cedar in these areas helps to ensure the longevity and structural integrity of the instrument. While less common for tops, other types of cedar, such as Port Orford Cedar, may be used for bracing. Port Orford Cedar is known for its stiffness and strength, making it an excellent option for providing support to the guitar top and shaping its overall sound. The bracing pattern and materials used play a crucial role in the tonal characteristics of the guitar, and Port Orford Cedar can contribute to a balanced and resonant sound. In summary, the selection of cedar types in guitar construction is a nuanced process that takes into account the specific tonal and structural requirements of the instrument. Western Red Cedar for tops, Spanish Cedar for necks and linings, and Port Orford Cedar for bracing each play a distinct role in creating a well-balanced and tonally rich guitar.

Caring for Your Cedar Top Guitar

Cedar tops, while beautiful and tonally rich, are a bit softer than spruce. This means they can be more susceptible to scratches and dings. But don't worry, with a little extra care, you can keep your cedar top guitar looking and sounding its best. One of the most important things is to control the humidity. Cedar is more sensitive to changes in humidity than spruce, so it's crucial to keep your guitar in a stable environment. Ideally, you want to maintain a humidity level between 45% and 55%. You can use a humidifier in your guitar case or room to help regulate the humidity. Avoid exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can also damage the wood. When cleaning your guitar, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe it down after each playing session. This will help to remove fingerprints, dust, and other debris that can dull the finish. For more stubborn smudges, you can use a guitar polish specifically designed for nitrocellulose finishes. Be gentle and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. When changing strings, be careful not to scratch the top with the string ends. You can use a string winder to make the process easier and safer. Finally, consider using a guitar case whenever you're not playing your guitar. A case will protect it from bumps, scratches, and changes in humidity. Taking care of your cedar top guitar is an investment in its longevity and sound quality. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your guitar remains a cherished instrument for years to come. Proper maintenance of a cedar top guitar involves a combination of environmental control, careful handling, and appropriate cleaning practices. Given cedar's softer nature compared to spruce, it is particularly important to protect the instrument from potential damage. Humidity control is paramount in preserving the integrity of a cedar top. Cedar is more susceptible to changes in moisture levels, which can lead to warping, cracking, or other structural issues. Maintaining a consistent humidity level between 45% and 55% is ideal, and this can be achieved through the use of a case humidifier or a room humidifier, especially in drier climates or during the winter months. Conversely, in humid environments, dehumidifiers or desiccants may be necessary to prevent excessive moisture absorption. Temperature control is also crucial, as extreme temperatures can negatively impact the wood and finish of the guitar. Avoid leaving the instrument in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in a car on a hot day. When cleaning a cedar top guitar, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down the instrument after each use. This will help to remove fingerprints, dust, and oils that can accumulate over time. For more stubborn smudges or dirt, a guitar polish specifically formulated for nitrocellulose finishes can be used sparingly. Always apply the polish to the cloth rather than directly to the guitar, and avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. When changing strings, exercise caution to prevent scratches or dings to the top. Using a string winder can make the process smoother and more controlled. It's also a good practice to place a soft cloth under the bridge area to protect the top from accidental scratches. Storing the guitar in a high-quality case when not in use provides an additional layer of protection against physical damage, humidity fluctuations, and temperature changes. A well-padded case can prevent bumps and scratches, while also helping to maintain a stable environment for the instrument. By adhering to these care guidelines, guitarists can ensure that their cedar top guitars remain in optimal condition, both structurally and tonally, for many years of playing enjoyment.

Is a Cedar Top Guitar Right for You?

So, after all this, the big question remains: is a cedar top guitar right for you? Hopefully, you have a clearer picture now of the pros and cons. To recap, cedar is a great choice if you:

• Play fingerstyle
• Prefer a warm, mellow tone
• Have a light touch
• Play classical, folk, or fingerstyle music

Spruce, on the other hand, might be a better fit if you:

• Strum aggressively
• Prefer a bright, punchy tone
• Need a guitar that can cut through a mix
• Play bluegrass, country, or rock

But remember, these are just general guidelines. The best way to decide is to play different guitars and see what sounds and feels right to you. Don't be afraid to try both cedar and spruce tops, as well as other tonewoods like mahogany and rosewood. Each wood has its own unique character, and the combination of woods used in a guitar can create a wide range of tonal possibilities. Ultimately, the right guitar is the one that inspires you to play and makes you happy. Consider your playing style, musical preferences, and tonal goals, and then explore the options that align with your needs. Whether you opt for the warm and responsive character of cedar or the bright and articulate tone of spruce, the most important thing is to choose an instrument that resonates with you and enhances your musical expression. So grab a guitar, start playing, and let your ears guide you to the perfect match. The decision of whether a cedar top guitar is the right choice ultimately comes down to a blend of personal preferences, playing style, and musical aspirations. Cedar, with its warm, rich, and responsive tone, offers a unique sonic palette that can be particularly appealing to certain guitarists. Fingerstyle players, for example, often gravitate towards cedar tops due to their ability to translate subtle nuances and delicate playing dynamics with exceptional clarity. The wood's inherent warmth and complex overtones create a sound that is both intimate and expressive, making it well-suited for solo performances and intricate fingerpicking arrangements. Guitarists who favor a mellow and harmonically rich tone may also find cedar to be an excellent match. Its ability to generate strong overtones adds depth and color to the sound, creating a sonic texture that is both captivating and nuanced. This warmth is particularly advantageous in musical genres such as classical, folk, and fingerstyle, where tonal complexity and subtlety are highly valued. Conversely, players who have a more aggressive strumming style or who need their guitar to project loudly in a band setting may find that spruce tops better suit their needs. Spruce offers a brighter, more articulate tone with a strong fundamental, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical styles. However, for guitarists who prioritize warmth, responsiveness, and tonal complexity, a cedar top guitar can be a truly rewarding choice. To make an informed decision, it's essential to consider your own playing style, musical preferences, and tonal goals. Exploring different guitars with both cedar and spruce tops, as well as other tonewood options, can provide valuable insights and help you identify the instrument that best aligns with your artistic vision. The most important factor is to choose a guitar that inspires you to play and that you feel a deep connection with, as this will ultimately enhance your musical journey and expression.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a guitar is a personal journey, and there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to tonewoods. Cedar top guitars offer a unique and beautiful sound that's worth exploring. So, go out there, play some guitars, and find the one that speaks to you! Happy playing, guys!