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Nitro vs Poly Guitar Finishes – Which is better?

Guitar players of all levels are often faced with a crucial decision when it comes to the finish on their instrument: nitro or poly? Both finishes have their pros and cons, and it’s important to understand the differences in order to make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at nitro and poly guitar finishes and help you determine which one is right for you.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Nitrocellulose lacquer is a traditional finish that has been used on guitars for many years. It’s a thinner, more delicate finish that allows the natural tone and resonance of the wood to shine through. This type of finish is also more susceptible to wear and tear, but many players appreciate the vintage look and feel that it provides.

One of the key benefits of nitrocellulose lacquer is its ability to breathe. Unlike poly finishes, which are completely sealed, nitro finishes allow the wood to continue to resonate and vibrate, resulting in a more natural, organic sound. This is one of the reasons why many high-end, custom-made guitars feature nitro finishes.

Another advantage of nitro finishes is their ability to yellow and age over time. While some players may see this as a drawback, others appreciate the vintage look and feel that develops over the years. This aging process can also add to the instrument’s character and uniqueness.

Polyurethane Finish
Polyurethane is a modern finish that is much thicker and more durable than nitrocellulose lacquer. This type of finish is more resistant to wear and tear and is often used on mass-produced instruments.

One of the key benefits of polyurethane finishes is their durability. They are less likely to scratch, dent, or chip than nitro finishes, making them ideal for players who gig frequently or travel with their instrument.

Another advantage of poly finishes is their consistency. Unlike nitro finishes, which can vary in color and thickness from one guitar to another, poly finishes are uniform and provide a consistent look and feel.

Sound Differences
While both nitro and poly finishes have their pros and cons, the biggest difference between the two is their impact on sound. Nitro finishes are generally considered to be superior in this regard, as they allow the wood to resonate and vibrate more freely. This results in a more natural, organic sound that is favored by many players.

Poly finishes, on the other hand, tend to have a deadening effect on the sound of the guitar. The thicker, more rigid finish acts as a barrier between the wood and the air, reducing the amount of resonance and vibrational energy that is transferred from the guitar to the air. This can result in a less expressive and less dynamic sound.

Understanding the Application Process
Applying a nitrocellulose lacquer finish is a labor-intensive process that requires a skilled hand and a lot of patience. The finish is applied in thin, delicate coats that must be carefully sanded between each application to ensure a smooth, even finish. This process can take several weeks to complete, and requires a clean, dust-free environment to prevent contamination.

Polyurethane finishes, on the other hand, are much easier to apply. They can be sprayed in thicker coats, which reduces the time and effort required to complete the job. The finish also dries much faster than nitrocellulose lacquer, which is another advantage.

Maintenance and Upkeep
Both nitrocellulose lacquer and polyurethane finishes require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Nitro finishes are more delicate and are prone to scratches, dings, and other signs of wear and tear. They also require periodic reapplication to maintain their original sheen and to protect the wood underneath.

Polyurethane finishes are much more durable and require less maintenance. They are resistant to scratches and dings, and do not require reapplication. However, they can still become dull and faded over time, and may need to be cleaned and polished to restore their shine.

Cost Considerations
The cost of a nitrocellulose lacquer finish is generally higher than a polyurethane finish due to the time and effort required to apply the finish. However, the cost of a nitro finish can be offset by its longevity and the fact that it does not need to be reapplied as often.

Polyurethane finishes are much less expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer, due to the ease and speed of application. However, the lower cost of the finish may be offset by the need for periodic cleaning and polishing to maintain its appearance.

Which Finish is Right for You?
The decision between a nitrocellulose lacquer or a polyurethane finish comes down to personal preference, playing style, and budget. Nitro finishes are ideal for players who value natural sound and organic tone, and are willing to accept the risk of wear and tear. Poly finishes are a great choice for players who are looking for a more durable finish and a consistent look and feel. Ultimately, it’s important to try both types of finishes and see which one works best for you.

In conclusion, both nitro and poly guitar finishes have their pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re a professional musician, a weekend warrior, or a beginner, it’s important to understand the differences between these two finishes in order to make an informed decision when choosing a guitar.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a nitrocellulose lacquer finish?
A nitrocellulose lacquer finish is a type of finish that is applied to the body of a guitar to protect the wood and provide a glossy, smooth appearance. Nitrocellulose lacquer is a type of solvent-based finish that is made from cellulose, a natural polymer that is derived from plant fibers. It dries to a hard, glossy surface that is resistant to wear and tear, but also prone to cracks and fading over time.

What is a polyurethane finish?
A polyurethane finish is a type of finish that is applied to the body of a guitar to protect the wood and provide a smooth, glossy appearance. Polyurethane is a type of synthetic polymer that is created by reacting a polyol with an isocyanate. Polyurethane finishes are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear, but they are also less flexible than nitrocellulose lacquer and are prone to yellowing over time.

How does the application process differ between nitro and poly finishes?
Applying a nitrocellulose lacquer finish is a labor-intensive process that requires a skilled hand and a lot of patience. The finish is applied in thin, delicate coats that must be carefully sanded between each application to ensure a smooth, even finish. This process can take several weeks to complete, and requires a clean, dust-free environment to prevent contamination.

Polyurethane finishes, on the other hand, are much easier to apply. They can be sprayed in thicker coats, which reduces the time and effort required to complete the job. The finish also dries much faster than nitrocellulose lacquer, which is another advantage.

How does maintenance and upkeep differ between nitro and poly finishes?
Both nitrocellulose lacquer and polyurethane finishes require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Nitro finishes are more delicate and are prone to scratches, dings, and other signs of wear and tear. They also require periodic reapplication to maintain their original sheen and to protect the wood underneath.

Polyurethane finishes are much more durable and require less maintenance. They are resistant to scratches and dings, and do not require reapplication. However, they can still become dull and faded over time, and may need to be cleaned and polished to restore their shine.

How does the cost of nitro and poly finishes compare?
The cost of a nitrocellulose lacquer finish is generally higher than a polyurethane finish due to the time and effort required to apply the finish. However, the cost of a nitro finish can be offset by its longevity and the fact that it does not need to be reapplied as often.

Polyurethane finishes are much less expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer, due to the ease and speed of application. However, the lower cost of the finish may be offset by the need for periodic cleaning and polishing to maintain its appearance.

Which finish is right for me, nitro or poly?
The decision between a nitrocellulose lacquer or a polyurethane finish comes down to personal preference, playing style, and budget. Nitro finishes are ideal for players who value natural sound and organic tone, and are willing to accept the risk of wear and tear. Poly finishes are a great choice for players who are looking for a more durable finish and a consistent look and feel.