Ibanez acoustic guitars created from torrefied wood process

Having established itself as an acoustic guitar “time machine,” with its variety of instruments patterned on historic designs, the Ibanez Artwood Vintage series goes into hyper-drive for fall 2016, with the introduction of “Thermo-Aged” models. The principle can be explained as to ‘fast-forward’ the aging process of a guitar without stressing the wood so a guitar is seasoned to its optimal condition. When a guitar ages— even a guitar built from carefully seasoned wood—it will release water and resin moisture over the years. The more moisture it sheds, the more freely the wood vibrates, and the more dynamic the guitar becomes. Thermo-Aging allows you to obtain the privilege of aged guitars without aging yourself.

Commonly known as “baking” or “torrefaction,” the process draws the elements out of the wood that can dull the acoustic response of newly built instruments. Only choice selected and seasoned tone wood is appropriate for the Thermo Age process. The wood is heated in a vacuum according to a specific set of parameters that will most effectively release water and decompose resin contained within that particular type of wood. As a result, Thermo-Aged tone wood becomes light, hard and stable like tone wood dried for decades, while providing notably stronger acoustic response. The tone character includes a full-bodied low-end and smooth sustain on the treble side—common features of vintage guitars.

Slated to be released this fall, the Artwood Vintage Thermo-Aged Models will be offered in a variety of body styles (Dreadnought, Grand Concert, Parlor), woods (Mahogany, Sitka Spruce) and offered at two price points, one for guitars that feature a solid Thermo-Aged top, and the other to add a Solid Thermo-Aged back.

Simplified Image Comparing Thermo Aged™ To Non-Thermo Aged Guitars

The Thermo Aged™ process makes the sound louder across the entire frequency range, especially the bass and treble areas. (The base line in the image represents the sound character of Non-Thermo Aged guitar). Having a Thermo Aged™ solid back brings further enhancement to the sound along with the Thermo Aged™ solid top; even more bass, even more treble, and plenty of punch.