Mahogany/sapele

[Jimmer]

I hope this isn't a stupid question but I have been looking at a few guitars with either solid sapele or solid mahogany back and sides. They all seem to have a different depth of color. I'am curious at whether it would make much difference in the tone.
Again I appreciate the input you guys have to offer.

Thanks

Jim
 

[jjrpilot-admin]

I hope this isn't a stupid question but I have been looking at a few guitars with either solid sapele or solid mahogany back and sides. They all seem to have a different depth of color. I'am curious at whether it would make much difference in the tone.
Again I appreciate the input you guys have to offer.

Thanks

Jim

Hi Jim, from what I experience the color of the wood doesn't have any effect on the sound/tone.  Obviously the sapele and mahogany will sound differently.  I love that no two guitars are the same....each piece of wood is slightly different etc.

[michaelw]

some sapele guitars have a more pronounced ribbon figure than tropical mahogany & then
there is sapele that is quilted & i've seen some models that appeared to be flatsawn -
sapele is harder than mahogany, which may the reason why that in the hands of certain players
a sapele model may have a bit more "pop" that is somewhat reminiscent of a flamenco style guitar
http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/sapele/
http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/honduran-mahogany/

if the wood that has darker coloration is also more dense, there is a possibility that may
equate to an audible difference in tone, but it may be rather subtle & there may or may not
be a set correlation between the two, particularly with certain tonewoods such as koa -
mahogany used on the XX5 series & some the LTDs have been stained, which might add a bit more
finish & i don't know if there is a significant difference between clear & brown paste (pore/grain) filler
other than the color, but a thicker finish can have a potential impact on tone, in comparison to a thin finish

[Jimmer]

As usual you guys are a big help.. thanks for the input

Jim