German Spruce

German Spruce (Picea excelsa, also Picea abies) also known as European spruce, Italian spruce, or Norway Spruce. Instrument grade wood is usually imported from Germany. It is bright, creamy white and lustrous.

Stiffness and humidity sensitivity are nearly a match for Sitka Spruce. Unfortunately large trees are nearly gone and it is very difficult to get in highest quality.

Often touted as the ideal top material (like Brazilian Rosewood for the back and sides), German Spruce is the traditional material for soundboards. It has a clear bell-like tone, with the versatility of Sitka. It ages into a very powerful, full tone that yields exceptional sound for fingerstyle to heavy flatpicking.