Another tone-thread: Mahogany oiled vs gloss

[Tho]

I own an oiled all-mahogany soloist. I used to own a all mahogany guitar with polyurethane finish. Do you guys think there is an actual difference in sound between those two finishes? Yes, there are a lot of factors that influence the tone, but let's say two identical guitars: all mahogany. But one is oiled and the other has a gloss finish. Would you hear it?

I for one, think there is a noticable tonal difference. Looking forward to hear your experiences!

[DonP]

Same quality of wood in each? A poly finished guitar would use shit wood whereas a soloist would use premium stuff.

[Matt_B]

I don't know if I would hear difference. To say yes or no would be conjecture. The only way to test the theory would be to play the guitar with an oil finish, refinish it with poly and play it again. Even then I wouldn't concern myself with that level of minutiae.

[leftykingv2]

I don't know if I would hear difference. To say yes or no would be conjecture. The only way to test the theory would be to play the guitar with an oil finish, refinish it with poly and play it again. Even then I wouldn't concern myself with that level of minutiae.

+1 It's all subjective to the ears that are listening to it.

[Newc]

Agree with Matt_B. The inherent differences in the wood of 2 identical guitars are much stronger than the differences in the type of finish. If you can hear a difference, it's most likely not related to the finish.

Of course, if you're considering the acoustic properties, then you'll hear a difference as sound waves bounce off the flat glossy finish better than the less-reflective oil finish.

[Tho]

Interesting :-) Offcourse you listen mostly with your eyes, if you know what I mean.

[bombtek]

Throw a set of EMG's in each one and instant identical tone

[Newc]

True. EMGs + TripleRec + whatever the latest trendy booteek gain pedal will make all guitars sound identical.

And yes, I understand "listening with your eyes" - "ooh, it's pretty, it must sound awesome". The Halford Warrior looks like a trainwreck, but kicks tonal ass.

[j2379]

Having stripped and oiled a guitar I can tell your there is a slight difference. Not so much the tone but the attack and resonance seem more lively and loud.