There are a multitude of types of wood that can be used for electric guitar bodies; each with their own unique characteristics that can affect the sound, weight, and appearance of the guitar. Here are some of our favorite woods used for electric guitar bodies:

Alder – a lightweight wood with a well-balanced tone and a slightly scooped midrange. It is commonly used for Stratocaster-style guitars.

Ash – has a bright, snappy tone and a pronounced midrange. It is commonly used for Telecaster-style guitars.

Mahogany – is a dense, heavy wood with a warm, rich tone and good sustain. It is commonly used for Les Paul-style guitars.

Maple – is a dense, hard wood with a bright, articulate tone and a pronounced high end. It is commonly used as a top wood for guitars, and is also used for necks and fretboards.

Roasted Maple – a type of maple wood that has been heat-treated in a specialized kiln to remove moisture and impurities. It is more commonly used for necks and fretboards. In terms of its tonal characteristics, roasted maple is often described as having a well-balanced and articulate sound with a strong midrange presence. It can also have a slightly darker and more compressed sound than untreated maple, which can be desirable for some styles of music.

Basswood – This is a lightweight wood with a well-balanced tone and a slightly scooped midrange. It is commonly used as an affordable alternative to Alder.

Zebrawood – is known for its distinct striped appearance, which is caused by the contrast between the light-colored sapwood and the dark-colored heartwood. It is a visually striking wood that can make for a beautiful and unique electric guitar body. It is often described as having a bright, clear sound with a strong midrange presence. It is a relatively dense and heavy wood, which can contribute to good sustain and resonance.

African Pau -is a hardwood species that is native to Africa. It is often described as having a warm, punchy sound with a strong midrange emphasis. It is a dense and heavy wood, which can contribute to good sustain and resonance. It also has a relatively open grain structure, which can allow the wood to breathe and produce a more lively sound.

Ultimately, the choice of wood for an electric guitar body will depend on the player’s personal aesthetic preference and the desired sound and feel of the guitar they are seeking to create. We can help you with the process! Give us a call.