Gloss

[jsgksu]

While looking at Guitars (Taylors to be specific) I noticed that mostly all have gloss tops and then either have satin back and sides or gloss back and sides. Gloss is apparently better and more expensive because it is only on the higher priced models but what is it exactly. Is it just for asthetic reasons or does it do something to the guitar. I want a 414ce (this week, who knows what it will be when I have the money) and it doesnt have the gloss back and sides, is there any way to have that done. Anyone wanna fill me in on this, yet another thing I am still ignorant to in the world of guitars. Thanks.

[Pickles]

satin back and sides cannot be redone because they are finished with something that gloss is not, it doesnt allow it to be glossy. however it can be made shiny. ill post with a little more information in a minute

[Pickles]

The thing about the satin finish is that it's the same finish material as the gloss, but with an additive that makes it go "unglossy" as it dries. This accomplishes two things for the builder that help save money:

1. It requires no buffing, so once the finish cures, the finishing process is done.

2. Because light doesn't reflect evenly off the finish, it masks minor "sins" like a slightly uneven surface and minor sanding marks, which means less time preparing the wood under the finish.

The flip side is that satin also masks the color and grain somewhat, isn't as smooth to the touch as gloss, and can be kind of noisy as your clothes rub against it.

Disclaimer: I don't know what polishing a satin finish does to the warranty on any given guitar, and I make no claims that anyone will get the same results I got. Sorry, but I think this has to be said.

[jsgksu]

Thanks, I think I understand. So what are you talking about in your disclaimer? Did you do something to your guitar?

[Pickles]

actually i got this from someone else. he was just saying that you should do it at your own risk and that hes not sure what it does to your warrenty - or something like that.