Scientific Name: Picea abies (European Spruce), Picea sitchensis (Sitka Spruce), Picea glauca (Engelmann Spruce)
Origin: Found in North America and Europe, with Sitka Spruce primarily growing in the Pacific Northwest, European Spruce across central and northern Europe, and Engelmann Spruce in western North America.
CITES Status: Not currently listed under CITES regulations, but sustainable forestry practices are encouraged.
Use in Guitar Making
Spruce is the most common wood used for acoustic guitar soundboards. It is prized for its combination of strength, light weight, and resonance. Different varieties of spruce are used for specific tonal qualities, with Sitka Spruce being the most widely used due to its strength and versatility.
Tonal Properties
Spruce offers a bright, clear tone with excellent projection and dynamic range. It provides a fast response with strong articulation, making it suitable for a wide variety of playing styles. Different species of spruce offer slight variations in tonal characteristics, with European Spruce generally being more balanced and Engelmann Spruce slightly warmer.
Hardness and Workability
Janka Hardness Rating: 510 lbf (2,270 N) for Sitka Spruce, 480 lbf (2,130 N) for European Spruce, 350 lbf (1,560 N) for Engelmann Spruce
Spruce is a relatively soft wood, making it easy to work with but also more susceptible to dents and scratches. It carves well and glues effectively, making it ideal for guitar tops.
Grain Structure and Porosity
Spruce has a tight, straight grain with a fine, uniform texture. It is typically quarter-sawn for guitar tops to maximize strength and resonance. The grain is closed, requiring little to no grain filling when finishing.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Although spruce is not currently CITES-listed, sustainable forestry practices are crucial to ensure its long-term availability. Some high-quality spruce varieties, such as Adirondack Spruce (Picea rubens), have been overharvested, leading to limited supply.
Spruce remains the industry standard for guitar tops, offering an unmatched combination of strength, responsiveness, and tonal clarity. Its continued use relies on responsible harvesting and conservation efforts.
