Why Isn't Black Cherry Wood Used Often in Electric Guitars?
Electric guitars have a rich history of being crafted with various types of wood, each contributing unique tonal qualities and aesthetics. One type of wood that is not as commonly seen in electric guitars is black cherry wood. There are several reasons for this, including tone characteristics, density and weight, availability and cost, aesthetic qualities, and market trends.
Tone Characteristics
The tonal qualities of black cherry wood differ significantly from more traditional woods like mahogany, alder, or ash. Black cherry tends to have a brighter sound, generally with less sustain. This tonal characteristic may not be desirable for many electric guitar players who prefer the warmer,more resonant tones provided by other woods. Many players seek warmth and depth in their sound, which black cherry doesn't always deliver in abundance.
Density and Weight
Black cherry wood is generally lighter than other popular guitar woods used in construction. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. On one hand, a lighter wood can make the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners. On the other hand, it may lack the mass and resonance that many professional guitarists require for the best performance, especially when it comes to sustaining notes and project sound.
Availability and Cost
Black cherry wood is not as widely available as other popular woods used in guitar construction. This limited availability can lead to higher costs and less consistent supply. For manufacturers, it can be less practical and less economical to source consistently and reliably. This is a significant factor in the decision-making process for guitar makers, who must balance quality, cost, and market demand.
Aesthetic Qualities
While black cherry can have a beautiful grain and rich, warm color, many guitarists prefer the look of more traditional woods like mahogany or rosewood. The grain of black cherry is often more subdued, lacking the vibrant patterns and figure seen in woods like maple or cocobolo. Manufacturers often consider both sound and aesthetics when choosing materials, and in many cases, they opt for more visually appealing options.
Tradition and Market Demand
The electric guitar market is heavily influenced by tradition and established techniques. Many manufacturers adhere to woods that have a proven track record of sound and playability. This tradition can make it challenging for less common woods like black cherry to gain traction and broad acceptance. The market is enduring and resistant to change, making it difficult for innovative materials to gain widespread adoption.
While some luthiers and custom guitar builders might experiment with black cherry, its unique characteristics may not align with the preferences of the broader electric guitar market. Some argue that this wood is softer and lacks the grain shimmer of other popular woods, making it less desirable. Additionally, the higher sap content in black cherry can cause physical voids, which can affect the curing of lacquer and overall quality. These factors contribute to the limited use of black cherry wood in electric guitars.
Finally, there are historical and design influences that have shaped the way electric guitars are built. For example, Gibson, a prominent guitar brand, has maintained a certain traditional approach to construction, often incorporating acoustic sensibilities. The higher sap content might make it more challenging to work with, especially for wood that is meant to be both acoustically resonant and durable. Fender, on the other hand, has benefited from the electronic age, where paintability and lightness are more important factors, leading to the use of woods like poplar and ash.
If you are curious about the unique qualities of black cherry wood, consider building your own custom electric guitar with it. Test its sound and performance, and share your experience with the community. Self-experimentation and personal exploration can lead to new insights and innovations in the world of guitar making.