Carved top vs. Flat top

[fenderbender4]

I was wondering if anyone had any input on how much (if any) difference a carved top guitar makes versus a flat topped one? Specifically I'm thinking of a maple top on a mahogany body. Thanks.

 

[theflyingturtle]

Tonally, I have no idea but I love the carve on my PRS. Comfort wise I strongly prefer a carved top.

 

[HoboMan]

Interesting question.
I've owned a Hamer Special FM (Flat maple top on Mahogany) and currently own a Hamer Studio (Carved maple top on Mahogany). Other than the flat vs carve they are the same guitar. I didn't really notice a tone difference but I didn't have them at the same time to compare.

 

[GAD]

I love carved tops for the feel when playing. I grew up playing a flat top though.

The difference is all feel and looks for me though.

 

[musicofanatic5]

I was wondering if anyone had any input on how much (if any) difference a carved top guitar makes versus a flat topped one? Specifically I'm thinking of a maple top on a mahogany body. Thanks.

"difference"? In terms of what?

 

[fenderbender4]

"difference"? In terms of what?

Sorry, I forgot to clarify my question. I am curious as to how it affects the tone, or sound that's produced.

 

[dspellman]

I was wondering if anyone had any input on how much (if any) difference a carved top guitar makes versus a flat topped one? Specifically I'm thinking of a maple top on a mahogany body. Thanks.

No difference at all. Tone's the same. I have flat topped mahogany guitars topped with a flat top of maple as well as carved ones. I think the only difference, really, is in looks and in where your finger sits if you cheat and put one down on your picking hand <G>.

 

[RRfireblade]

Carved top looks like it sounds better.

 

[Gretsch6136]

I would think a carved top would allow for for two things - steeper neck angles and thicker maple caps.

How this translates to tone is something i can't answer with any degree of certainty.

 

[DamianP]

What is important is the ratio of maple to mahogany. This is further influenced by the stiffness of the pieces concerned.

Many guitars seem to be designed with aesthetic considerations first.

As Mr Fireblade so astutely noted. The carved top solidbody format stems from a desire to make an instrument that looks a certain way rather than sounds a certain way.

Esentially, in a solid body guitar, it makes no difference.

Damian.

 

[AaeCee]

Carved top looks like it sounds better.

I love this answer!