I have been asked to build a flat top OM and am wondering if a torrified sitka top is worth the extra money. Any opinions on whether they are any better than a good grade sitka or red spruce top?
I have been asked to build a flat top OM and am wondering if a torrified sitka top is worth the extra money. Any opinions on whether they are any better than a good grade sitka or red spruce top?
Bob Schmidt
The science behind torrification makes sense in my head but not sure if it pans out in the real world. I almost exclusively buy used instruments & there are so many factors that go into the overall tone of an instrument that the few torrified tops I've played sounded good but not necessarily better. I do like the look though.
2020 Northfield Big Mon
2016 Skip Kelley A5
2011 Weber Gallatin A20
2021 Northfield Flattop Octave Mandolin
2019 Pono Flattop Octave
Richard Beard Celtic Flattop
And a few electrics
I've built 20 or so guitars, about half using "torrified" tops and bracing. My experience has been a positive one. I make my own bracing using torrified spruce as well. I feel (all things equal) these tops seem to give better sustain and a bit darker tone. I have also used torrified bracing with red spruce tops and have gotten good results. That being said, there are many other variables that effect the tone of any guitar. Oh well-- I guess it's all a crap shoot. Good luck.
You don't need to spend extra money for torrified tops. I get excellent results torrifying wood at home in a common kitchen oven. My recent thread on the Carolina Quartet shows a couple of examples.
Call the shop and I can chat up the process much better than I can type.
James, Yes I saw that, and I recall you did a thread on the process on the forum. I will try to find that. Can you PM me to let me know when would be a good time to call?
Thanks,
Bob Schmidt
GH_mando, Thanks for the reply. Maybe the best thing to do is make 2; one with and one without the torrified top. I wonder if the wife would go for that?
Bob Schmidt
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