Hi All,
I was wondering what the tonal difference is between a blanca made with mexican cypress and a spruce top vs. a blanca with spanish cypress with spruce top. Also, what is the opinion of the building of Salvadore Castillo from Paracho.

Thanks ~
Daffeyy

Spanish cypress is more correctly called Mediterranean cypress as it was introduced into Spain from the Middle East. Much of todays "Spanish" cypress comes from Italy and other surrounding countries. Mexican cypress usually called Montezuma cypress grows in Mexico, California, and Texas and tends to have more color variations and be darker than the Mediterranean as a very general rule. Tone wise given that each was aged the same and the grain was similar would probably not be distinguishable. The biggest drawback about Mexican woods is they are not aged long and tend to crack. Master grade aged wood of at least 25 years is a rarity even in the best Paracho guitars. IMO a minimum of 50 years is needed to season tone woods properly. Another interesting cypress is the Oregon "white cedar" that has the tonal qualities of the best Mediterranean cypress and is much stronger and durable and is still very light. Stansell cuts his master grade tops and back and sides and necks from logs that have been down and dead for over 50 years. After hearing flamenco guitars almost totally made with this cypress, I am impressed it is the best cypress for making a traditional flamenco.

Salvadore is one of the best Mexican flamenco makers. He gets a traditional sound and response and his guitars seem to hold up well. He also is an accomplished player of traditional flamenco. There is some of his videos posted here on the forum.