Australian Spruce (Sitka Spruce) Acoustic Dreadnaught Guitar Top Book-matched generic Set
Unique, long-rotation plantation Sitka Spruce from the Otway Ranges in Victoria. The timber is processed to ensure the grain is as straight as possible to minimise long-grain runout and increase stability, strength and acoustic qualities.
These top sets have a tone and sustain consistent with northern hemisphere Sitka Spruce, particularly long-grain stiffness and equivalent densities of between 360-420kg/m3. Visually they range between Sitka and faster-grown Adirondack Spruce.
Ten random logs have been tested for velocity of sound at 12% emc with a Lucci meter. Results recorded average long grain readings of 13.13Gpa and an average density of 427kg/m3. This gives an average long-grain r-value of 14.09Gpa/kg/m3. The range was between 12.86 to 15.17Gpa/kg/m3.
Good-quality northern hemisphere Sitka would record an r-value above 14.0 Gpa/kg/m3. These results are exceptionally good for plantation-grown timber and would be hard-pressed to be beaten for Australian-grown soundboard material. Many native Australian soundboard materials have higher densities which reduces their r-values. Keep in mind these plantation Sitka results were tested on timber one year old and with a relatively high moisture content of 12%. It is expected that an emc of 8% would give lighter densities and greater velocity of sound readings. It is also expected that as the timber ages over the next 5 years it will naturally "set" and increase in stiffness.
Pictures are provided as an example of a typical set and are not the actual set. To purchase based on photos of an actual set, please see individual listings.
Top Set
Minimum dimensions: 570mm x 220mm x 4.5mm (LxWxT) see outlines on photos for a guide
Finish: Thin-kerf Bandsaw
Density guide (Light, Medium, Dense): light
This timber has been dried in a solar kiln to 9% EMC and kept indoors at 50% RH
Blemishes/Defects: any blemishes can be avoided.
Timber is part of nature and unlike man-made products it may have natural features that could be undesirable for some luthiers. Although these features can purvey uniqueness and authenticity they may also be seen as imperfect by some. We have made every effort to highlight any blemishes or defects as best as we can. Please rely on the photos for the most accurate representation of the timber.
Disclaimer: It is recommended that the luthier ensure that the timber has reached the appropriate EMC for their environment and application, and is stabilized to their working conditions before gluing. We give a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all products if it fails to meet the description.
Highly figured timber can be difficult to work with, particularly when bending sides or planing. We will not be liable for damage or breakages of the timber during construction.
Shipping times may vary depending on the location. Please be patient with shipping delays and get in touch if you have any issues.
If at all you have any questions or concerns please contact us.