Torrified complete

[Diane Kauffmds]

There is a definite difference in the sustain, between the guitar with the torrified top and comparable. The sound is much more complex, warm, and woody with the T.T. It will be interesting to see if it opens up more down the road.

[thronson]

I believe torrefaction treatment will accelerate the seasoning of tone wood in a positive manner. It is a matter of how fast, base on what temperature, what negative atmospheric pressure and for what time duration. Something like that. I have done numerous trials with the toasting of oak barrels over a small fire during construction. It softens the staves for bending and effects the flavor contribution to wine. I preferred the longer time/medium temperature. But getting back to tonewood, I would envision a slower seasoning would leave the structure more intact than a quick high temperature treatment. I say that after seeing the Martin video on torrefaction...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXdibaNFz-Q

In looking at the color of John's guitar and the Martin offerings, it appears John's source is darker. Perhaps overcooked???

Martin says the brace wood is also torrified. This all seems reasonable to me...

T

[tippie53]

the tops were not over cooked but Martin has been working with a process to make them lighter. This process takes a few weeks . Martins first tops were also pretty dark. Martin is making quite a science about this process.
This has been around for a while. It is a very controlled process that uses high heat in a vacuum then lower heat in open hair and keeps doing this to change the hemicellulose of the wood cell. One thing is the torrified tops are very stable in RH changes but it takes more clamp time.
It does work differently than raw wood. I am also starting to use torrified brace stock. There is tonal changes and structural. It is just another option for the builder to explore. The beauty is that it does give a vintage appearance and sound.
I am now selling these tops . I just got the 2nd guitar from finish and I will post pics and sound clips in the next 2 weeks.
One thing I find fascinating about these tops is how light no longer passes through the wood and they are totally opaque. The also sand and remain smooth when sanding. If you get the opportunity to use one I suggest you try it and judge for yourself.
the 2nd guitar is a 00 12 fret with a 42 pearl top. It is a very active body . I am pleased. I am sure the customer will be also.
The finish also make the appearance darker than the unfinished state.

the 2nd guitar is a 00 12 fret with a 42 pearl top. It is a very active body . I am pleased. I am sure the customer will be also.
The finish also make the appearance darker than the unfinished state.

Can you explain further what you mean by 'very active body'?

[thronson]

Thanks for the explanation on the torrifaction process and color. I find this fascinating...
Been following the NAMM 2015 convention on youtube (which is currently in progress) ...
the big three acoustic builders have been talking up this process ...
If anyone is interested here are clips from Gibson and Taylor...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOAZy8GXsHM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6sz5L050a4
T

[tippie53]

you can feel the body reflect sound as you speak . lots of vibration

[tippie53]

all done and sounds incredible

[alexander paul]

all done and sounds incredible

the looks are outstanding! going to make someone very ecstatic...

[Danl8]

Breathtaking! Love to hear it played.