In the ever-evolving world of guitar tonewoods, there’s a gem that’s been quietly making waves for decades: Myrtlewood. While it may not be as traditional or “hyped” as some other tonewoods, Myrtlewood has been a staple in Breedlove guitars for decades. Now, it’s gaining recognition and traction as a hot tonewood that players need to demo and experience. Let’s delve into what makes Myrtlewood special and why every guitarist should consider giving it a try.
What is Myrtlewood?
Native to Oregon in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, Myrtlewood is a hardwood with a captivating visual appeal and tonal characteristics that set it apart from other tonewoods. Its grain patterns range from rich browns to golden hues, creating stunning visuals on guitar backs and sides. But it’s not just its appearance that makes Myrtlewood stand out—it’s also prized for its balanced and versatile tonal properties.
Three Reasons to Try Myrtlewood:
- Distinctive Tone: Myrtlewood offers a unique sonic signature characterized by warm, clear tones with a pronounced midrange. It strikes a delicate balance between the brightness of maple and the warmth of rosewood, resulting in a sound that’s rich, resonant, and well-defined. Whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking intricate melodies, Myrtlewood lends a dynamic and expressive voice to your playing.
- Sustain and Responsiveness: One of the standout qualities of Myrtlewood is its exceptional sustain and responsiveness. It has a lively, responsive nature that allows notes to ring out with clarity and definition. Whether you’re playing softly or digging in with aggressive strumming, Myrtlewood responds with articulation and depth, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of playing styles and musical genres.
- Visual Appeal: Beyond its sonic qualities, Myrtlewood’s visual allure adds an extra dimension to guitar aesthetics. With its varied grain patterns and rich coloration, Myrtlewood creates eye-catching back and side panels that are as beautiful to behold as they are to play. Each guitar crafted with Myrtlewood showcases the unique natural beauty of this exceptional tonewood, ensuring that no two instruments are exactly alike.
Myrtlewood’s versatile tonal characteristics make it a tonewood worth exploring for guitarists of all levels and styles. Whether you’re drawn to its distinctive tone, exceptional sustain, or captivating aesthetics, Myrtlewood has something to offer every player. So why not experience the magic of Myrtlewood for yourself and unlock a world of sonic possibilities?
Breedlove Offers myrtlewood within the flagship USA-Made Oregon Series, professional-grade Organic Pro Collection, and the highly-accessible Pursuit Exotic suite of guitars.
