Exploring the Use of Spanish Cedar Cedrela in Electric Guitar Bodies

Introduction

When discussing the choice of woods for guitar construction, Spanish cedar Cedrela (Cedrela odorata) often stands out, particularly for its use in guitar necks. However, the suitability of this wood for solid-body electric guitar bodies is a topic of interest among guitar builders and enthusiasts. This article explores the characteristics of Spanish cedar Cedrela, its potential benefits and drawbacks, and whether it is a viable option for solid-body guitar bodies.

The Wood

Spanish cedar Cedrela, also known as Cuban cedar or simply Cedro, is a popular choice for guitar necks due to its distinctive lightness and rigidity. It is commonly used in acoustic guitar necks, especially in certain lines of classical guitars. Despite its light weight and rigid nature, it is often mistaken for a true cedar due to its pleasant aroma, which closely resembles real cedar. However, this wood is actually a hardwood, albeit a relatively soft one.

Pros for Solid-Body Guitar Bodies

The use of Spanish cedar Cedrela for solid-body guitar bodies has several appealing qualities:

Lightweight and Rigid: The wood's lightness and rigidity make it a great choice for body designs that prioritize comfort and contouring, such as Stratocaster-style guitars. This combination helps in reducing the overall weight of the guitar while maintaining structural integrity.

Vibrational Quality: Given its density and rigidity, Spanish cedar Cedrela may offer better sustain compared to lighter alternatives like basswood or some softer hardwoods. The wood's density could potentially lead to less impedance or phase changes, which might enhance the guitar's sustain and overall sound quality.

Cons and Considerations

While Spanish cedar Cedrela has its merits, there are several drawbacks that may need to be addressed:

Softness and Dents: The soft nature of the wood makes it prone to dents and scratches, which might necessitate the use of a tough and durable finish. This could potentially increase the cost and complexity of the build.

Machining and Stability: Spanish cedar Cedrela can be prone to splintering, especially when not cut and prepared properly. This is particularly important for precise cuts like the neck pocket and mortise. However, with the right tools and techniques, machining the wood can be manageable.

Finish and Resin Issues: The resinous nature of the wood can pose challenges for applying certain types of finishes, especially if the wood is not fully cured or the resins are not removed properly. This could affect the overall finish quality and may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Aesthetic Considerations: When using a transparent finish, Spanish cedar Cedrela might not capture the eye due to its plain appearance. Alternative methods, such as painting with opaque finishes, laminating figured wood on top, or creating intricate sunbursts and fades, may be necessary to enhance its visual appeal.

Conclusion and Recommendation

While Spanish cedar Cedrela offers several benefits that make it suitable for solid-body guitar bodies, the drawbacks cannot be ignored. For a builder or enthusiast, the decision to use this wood would depend on several factors, including the cost, availability, and the desire to work with a plain wood. If a good deal on a chunk of the wood is found, it could be a viable option. However, if one is looking for a lighter and moderately rigid wood at a more affordable price, popular choices like poplar or alder might be more suitable.

Ultimately, the use of Spanish cedar Cedrela as a solid-body guitar wood requires careful consideration and planning, ensuring that the wood is properly prepared and finished to meet the desired performance and aesthetic standards.