The ESP Guitar Company

• .What is Swamp Ash wood?

“Swamp Ash” does not refer to any particular species of ash (Fraxinus genus). It is used by luthiers to describe lightweight Southern White Ash wood. Swamp ash is a common name for North American trees in the genus Fraxinus. Often, these fast growing ash trees grow in swamps or wetlands. The wood is low density. It is commonly used for electric guitar production.

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• Alder vs Ash; Which is Better?

Alder is a consistent light tan color with subtle closed grain. Alternatively, Ash is cream color with closed pronounced grain texture. Generally speaking, Ash is better for staining. Alder works better solid color paints. However, it is ultimately, up to your own person preference.

• Is Swamp Ash a Good Tone Wood?

There are two varieties of Ash Tone Wood on the market.  The first is Southern White Soft Textured lightweight Ash, also known as Swamp Ash. The second type of ash tonewood is Northern Ash. This is a less common option. Northern Ash is significantly more dense than Southern Ash. Additionally, it has tighter grain due to slower growth patterns. However, Fender offers Northern Ash as a bodywood option.

Swamp ash tonewood is resonant across the full frequency spectrum. However, its middle frequencies are slightly scooped. The end result is a bright balanced tone.

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