Gloss vs Stain Finish and Overtones

[William2]

I watched this interesting comparison of two Martin D-18s in the above finishes. The presenter plays both for a sound comparison. His contention is that the gloss finish proves more overtones than the satin finish. I have to agree there is something more with the gloss finish and yet it is very close when played fingerstyle. I really can't stand the look of a gloss instrument yet like its sound. Finally, he says one isn't better than the other, is just a matter of taste.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBkXu99ynqo&t=535s

[B0WIE]

IMO, it really comes down to finish thickness (regardless of good level) and that in itself it's part of a bigger picture that includes how thick the top is, how stiff the braces are, etc.

 I suspect one thing that happens is that makers thickness their tops based on what is ideal for their top end models. When they make a budget model with a thin, satin finish, there's no compensation done to make the top vibrate the same way as the one with the thicker finish so they sound different. That's just speculation on my part. And, plenty of people like the less focused/more 'open' sound of a thin finish so don't take that as me saying satin is compromised. It's also nice, just in a different way. Some of my best guitars have had very thin finishes.

[William2]

I will say I do appreciate a nitro gloss finish. I like the looks of that checking that comes with age.

[StringPicker6]

I will say I do appreciate a nitro gloss finish. I like the looks of that checking that comes with age.

I feel the same way.

[B0WIE]

 I used to think nitro was awful. I hated the yellowing, the checking, etc. My Les Paul Supreme checked on the headstock 20 years ago and I was so upset. I had been meaning to repair it for years and finally got around to it last year. But, when I took it out of the case, I realized the binding had yellowed too and there were other checks around the body. And, suddenly I loved that guitar more than I ever had. It looks so perfect now. And, I'm not afraid to play it anymore so it sits right next to my work desk.

Funny how perspectives can change.