What are the tonal characteristics of Ebony?

[bho]

Hello,

I am looking at Amara Ebony- unsure of whether there is much variation among the various ebonies. Would love your thoughts.

Thanks.

[westman]

If it's Diospyros Celebica your talking about in guitar / tonewood circles we usually refer to it as Macassar Ebony and it has been successfully used by highly respecter builders, they generally wouldn't waste there time or endeavors on inferior materials.
an examble -

[W. D.]

Beautiful and informative video; thanks for posting.

Choice or top wood will be important if ebony is chosen for back/sides. I've played a redwood/Macassar McPherson that had a stunning tonal character, with an alluring combination of fundamentals, overtones and sparkle.

Good luck with your choices, and finding a luthier who has built effectively with this wood.

[Laurent Brondel]

Originally Posted by bho

Hello,

I am looking at Amara Ebony- unsure of whether there is much variation among the various ebonies. Would love your thoughts.

Thanks.

I have a few sets of Amara ebony, it's somewhat unusual.
There is a lot of variation among ebonies.
Even though Amara can look a bit like Macassar ebony, it has less internal damping and mass, it is stiffer and is more comparable to Gabon ebony (Diospyros crassiflora).
Tonal characteristics? It is difficult to say, compared to what, and with what builder/building style?
It can make a great guitar, that is certain.

[westman]

Ah, news to me, thanks Laurent.