Suggestion/advice needed: Engelmann spruce top close alternative or better & why

[K-G]

Hi there

I'm a new member here.  I been wondering this for some time and am hoping that I could get some suggestions.

For those who may have read my other posts, I have declared that I am a big fan of the Engelmann spruce top material.  But I also explained that I have not had the privilege to have had the chance to try out every type of top wood (and combination with the back body).

I have however tried sitka, a full high grade koa, and backs made of mahogany, indian rosewood, and Brazillian.

So,... I was hoping that I could hear from you guys, to suggest what sounds closest to the Engelmann other than sitka, or what in their opinion is better and why?

Thank you all in advance!

My guitars:
510ce - Engelmann-mahogany
914ce L7 Limited - Engelmann-Brazillian
Martin OM-28JM John Mayer Signature Limited - Engelmann-Indian rosewood

[Strumming Fool]

The closest spruce to engelmann to my ear would be a European Spruce (sourced from a Switzerland, Germany or Italy). It typically provides the same sweetness, warmth and clarity as engelmann, but may also provide additional power. I have an engelmann/maple BTO and a euro spruce/ mahogany Ltd that have helped me form the basis of my opinion. Hope this helps.

[K-G]

Thank you!

I have not seen a standard Taylor with a european spruce though.
Which guitar model would have this top?  Who knows i'll be able to test it somewhere.

[Edward]

I'll let others chime in on Adirondack as I have little experience there.

But I will agree wholeheartedly with SF on euro spruce, or at least the variety that Taylor builds with. It's dicey to compare my Engel top with GC body and Euro spruce with a GS body (not to mention vastly different sides/back), but based in mine and what others I've played, the two spruces have that midrange warmth that approaches cedar's voice, but with a top end punchiness that is definitely spruce. Moreover, both Engel and Euro lack that "zingy" bright top end that is pretty characteristic of Sitka.  Don't know how much that helps you but that's my story and I'm sticking to it

Edward

[Edward]

I can't tell you what current models use Euro spruce, but can tell you that the 2013 Fall Ltd 500s and 2013 spring Ltd 600s both sported these excellent tops.

Btw, welcome to the board!!

Edward

[K-G]

Thanks for all the info guys.  And thank you for the warm welcome!

Hopefully i get the chance to experience these suggestions soon, and hope to hear more.

I already know what my preference when comparing with sitka.

Adirondack is also one of those that I have not tried.  Looking forward for some insight.

Thanks again!

[timfitz63]

Welcome, "K-G!"

The closest spruce to engelmann to my ear would be a European Spruce (sourced from a Switzerland, Germany or Italy)...

... I will agree wholeheartedly with SF on euro spruce, or at least the variety that Taylor builds with.

Make that three of us!  I'm a fan of Engelmann Spruce tops too, and all the Taylor guitars I have with a European Spruce top are exceptional!

Recent Taylor issues with a European Spruce top have been confined to the Limiteds:  2012 Fall (paired with Quilted Sapele); 2013 Spring 600's (paired with African Ebony -- if you get an early build -- and Macassar Ebony for the later ones); 2013 Fall 500's (paired with Figured Mahogany).  The Builder's Reserve V was also a European Spruce top, paired with European Maple.  Occasionally one stumbles across a Custom/BTO with a European Spruce top.

The new 500 Series might get you part of the way toward Engelmann; apparently the Lutz Spruce that Taylor is using on that line is a natural hybrid of Sitka and White Spruce.  White Spruce is a close cousin of Engelmann Spruce; and Lutz tends to behave more like Sitka when it's found closer to the shores, and more like White Spruce when found in interior regions.  So you might happen across a new 500-Series guitar with a top that's more White Spruce than Sitka Spruce.  No way to really tell other than you might hear stronger Engelmann-like sonic elements in it...

... Adirondack is also one of those that I have not tried.  Looking forward for some insight...

Frankly, I'm not so wowed by Adirondack Spruce.  But a lot of others apparently are, since it's widely offered.  It's got a lot of headroom -- probably the most where Spruce is concerned -- but sounds a bit "sharp" or "harsh" to me.  I don't know whether it will mellow with age, though; I haven't gotten that far with a guitar topped with Adirondack...

[dcasey1]

I get great volume out of a light finger style with my H & D 00-SP, warm and articulate, but it is not a guitar to play with a strong attack. I don't have it on any of my Taylors.

[K-G]

Thanks again guys!

Appreciate all the input from everyone.

 

[wooglins]

Euro Spruce, or a really good example of Sitka with Adrirondack bracing.  I have played and owned nearly all of the Taylor top woods and have found that some Sitka tops have it all.  Without being able to play lots of tops and hand pick one I would say Euro Spruce unplayed.

[jalbert]

Of what's being offered currently, I'd choose Lutz spruce (lighter rather than darker if possible) with Adirondack bracing.