Ash

Classic guitar sides estimated dimensions (800x110x3,5mm)x2

At Maderas Barber, we have the variety of Swamp Ash. A species of ash characterized by growing in swampy areas of the US and therefore, developing other different properties for its use in instruments.

The rigidity and stability of this wood are lower compared to common ash. However, it is a much lighter wood and its sound qualities are better: greater warmth and resonance of sound. That’s why it is usually used for guitar bodies, sides or backs, pieces which close the instrument's soundboard.

Many manufacturers opt for this variety due to its excellent acoustic properties, and its spectacular flamed curl that appears on the surface. In fact, some of the most historic Fender Teles and Stratos (USA) guitars have been made with this wood.

At Maderas Barber we offer you the opportunity of discovering this Swamp Ash sides for classical guitar with its excellent acoustic properties and its beautiful flaming.

BOTANIC NAME: Fraxinus Americana.

COMMON NAMES: White Ash, American White Ash.

ORIGIN:  North America.

DESCRIPTION:   Density 660 Kg/m3. The heartwood is a light to medium brown colour. Sapwood can be very wide, and tends to be a beige or light brown; not always clearly or sharply demarcated from heartwood. The grain is almost always straight and regular, though sometimes moderately curly or figured boards can be found.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Produces good results with hand or machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well. Dulling effect.

DRYING: Easy and fast drying.

USES:  Musical instruments. Flooring, millwork, boxes/crates, baseball bats, and other turned objects such as tool handles.