Is Okoume Wood Good For Guitars? Here’s The Truth

Have you ever picked up a guitar and felt an instant connection? Or played a chord and felt the tone resonate right through your soul? That’s the magic of a great guitar, and a huge part of that magic comes from the wood it’s made from.

We’re all familiar with the classics – mahogany, maple, rosewood – but what about Okoume? It’s been creeping up in popularity, and let me tell you, there’s more to this tonewood than meets the eye.

In this deep dive, we’re going to unpack everything Okoume – from its African roots to its use in both electric and acoustic guitars, its physical properties, and how it stacks up against the legendary mahogany. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s explore whether this tonewood is worth it or not.

What Is Okoume Wood?

This tonewood has recently hit the guitar scene like a fresh riff in an old classic. Originating from the rainforests of Central Africa, primarily Gabon, this wood is increasingly catching the eye (and ear) of guitar makers and players alike. But what’s the real deal behind this rising star in the tonewood world?

• Geographic Origin: Central Africa, predominantly Gabon.
• Density: It’s lighter than traditional mahogany, making it a great choice for those who play long sets and need a more comfortable instrument.
• Grain Texture: Typically features a straight grain, although it can sometimes present a slightly interlocked pattern, adding to its visual appeal.
• Tonal Profile: Balanced with a slight lean towards brightness, offering a distinct contrast to the warmer tones of mahogany. This gives it a unique place in the tonal spectrum of guitars.
• Sustainability: Generally considered a more sustainable option compared to some over-harvested tonewoods, but as always, sourcing matters.
• Popularity: Gaining traction especially in electric guitar manufacturing, but also making waves in the acoustic realm.

I want to dive deeper into the popularity aspect of these guitars. Based on data gathered on Google Trends, I created the following line chart that highlights the fact that these guitars are getting even more traction than Mahogany and Rosewood.

As depicted, the popularity of Okoume has been on a steady rise, indicating its increasing acceptance and use in guitar making. This contrasts with the slight decline in the popularity of Mahogany and Rosewood, suggesting a shift in tonewood preferences among guitarists and manufacturers. ​​

As a guitarist who’s played on all sorts of woods, I find this tonewood intriguing. It’s not just its lightweight nature that makes it stand out, but its ability to offer a unique sound character, blending brightness and warmth in a way that’s both refreshing and familiar.

If you want to learn more about other (and more popular) guitar tonewoods, make sure to check out my in-depth guide – Electric Guitar Tonewoods Explained.

This, combined with its sustainable credentials, positions Okoume as a tonewood that’s not just a passing trend, but one with potential to leave a lasting mark on the guitar world.

Use of Okoume in Electric Guitars

The adoption of that material in electric guitar manufacturing has been a noteworthy trend, grabbing the attention of both guitarists and renowned guitar brands. From my experience as a guitarist who’s played a diverse array of instruments, the use of Okoume has brought a fresh dynamic to the electric guitar world.

• Weight Advantage: Okoume’s most striking feature in electric guitars is its lightweight nature. This quality is a godsend, especially during those marathon gigs or recording sessions where a heavy guitar can really wear you down.
• Sound Character: In terms of sound, it stands out for its bright and articulate tonal quality. This makes it an excellent choice for genres that require a clear, distinct sound. It’s not just about volume; it’s about clarity and presence in the mix.
• Brands Embracing Okoume: Several big names in the guitar industry have started incorporating this tonewood into their builds.
  
  For example, Gibson has used Okoume in some of their Les Paul models, offering a lighter alternative to the traditional mahogany bodies.
  
  Ibanez has also explored that material in their RG series, known for their sleek, fast-playing necks and sharp tones, perfect for shredders and metal enthusiasts.
  
  Fender, while traditionally known for their ash and alder bodies, has dabbled with that tonewood in special editions, adding a unique flavor to their classic designs.
• Affordability: A key aspect that’s driving the popularity of that wood in electric guitars is its affordability. This is particularly appealing for up-and-coming players looking for quality instruments without breaking the bank.

In summary, this materials rising prominence in the electric guitar scene is a blend of practicality and innovation. Its light weight relieves physical strain, its tonal clarity enhances musical expression, and its affordability makes quality guitars more accessible.

Use Of Okoume In Acoustic Guitars

Okay, so we covered the electric guitars, but what about the acoustic ones?

Here’s a closer look at why guitarists are increasingly choosing this stunning material, along with some notable brands that have embraced this material:

• Favorable for Fingerstyle Playing: Okoume is gaining popularity for its exceptional suitability for fingerstyle playing. Its tonal properties offer a clear and articulate sound, essential for the intricate nuances of fingerstyle techniques.
• Balanced Tonal Profile: This wood provides a well-rounded balance between warmth and brightness, making it versatile across various genres. This tonal balance is especially beneficial for guitarists who play a diverse range of music.
• Lightweight and Comfortable: The lightweight nature of Okoume is a significant factor in its growing popularity. It makes guitars easier to handle during long practice sessions or performances, reducing fatigue.
• Sustainability and Affordability: Guitarists are increasingly conscious of sustainability and affordability. Okoume, being a more readily available and responsibly sourced wood, meets these criteria without compromising on quality.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The visual aspect of guitars is important to many players. Okoume’s distinct and often beautifully figured grain adds an extra layer of visual appeal.

Acoustic Guitar Brands Using Okoume

Several renowned acoustic guitar brands have incorporated Okoume into their models, recognizing its unique attributes:

• Taylor Guitars: Known for their innovation and quality, Taylor has utilized Okoume in several of their models. Their guitars are praised for their playability and tonal clarity, making them a favorite among fingerstyle players.
• Yamaha: A brand synonymous with affordability and quality, Yamaha has featured that wood in some of their acoustic models. They offer a great entry point for players who are looking for a reliable instrument without a hefty price tag.
• Martin Guitars: As a brand that has long been associated with high-quality acoustic guitars, Martin has explored the use of this material in some of their instruments, catering to players who seek both tradition and innovation.
• Fender: While primarily known for their electric guitars, Fender has also ventured into using Okoume in their acoustic lines. Their guitars stand out for their versatility and are suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

Physical Properties

When we talk about the physical properties of tonewoods, particularly in the context of guitar making, one key aspect that we guitarists pay close attention to is the wood’s hardness.

This is often measured by the Janka Hardness Test, which determines the resistance of wood to denting and wear.

Okoume, with its unique set of physical properties, stands out in several ways when compared to other popular tonewoods. Let’s take a look at how Okoume stacks up against some of these tonewoods in terms of their Janka Hardness Values:

Here’s a bar chart that compares the hardness of a few of the most popular tonewoods. You can also check out the table below with all their characteristics.

This table illustrates that this material, with a lower Janka Hardness Value compared to other traditional tonewoods, offers a unique combination of lightness and moderate hardness.

This makes it not only easy to work with for luthiers but also provides distinct tonal qualities that are less dense and heavy than woods like Mahogany or Rosewood. Its relative softness contributes to a brighter sound, which is why it’s becoming increasingly popular in both electric and acoustic guitar manufacturing.

The choice of Okoume can be particularly appealing to guitarists who prefer a lighter instrument without sacrificing tonal quality.

Okoume vs Mahogany

In the guitar world, the comparison between Okoume and Mahogany is akin to an intriguing musical duel. Both are revered for their unique tonal qualities and physical characteristics, but they bring different flavors to the table. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each, giving you a clearer picture of these two tonewoods.

Okoume

Pros:

• Lightweight: Ideal for long playing sessions and comfortable handling, reducing player fatigue.
• Brighter Tone: Offers a more pronounced clarity in the higher frequencies, making it suitable for styles that require crisp articulation.
• Sustainability: Generally more readily available and sustainable, making it an eco-friendlier choice.
• Affordable: Typically more budget-friendly, a great option for players looking for quality without a high price tag.

Cons:

• Less Traditional: Some purists may find its tone lacking the classic warmth associated with traditional guitar woods.
• Softer Wood: Lower Janka hardness means it could be more prone to dents and wear over time.
• Variable Grain Patterns: While visually appealing, the inconsistency in grain patterns might not appeal to all.

Mahogany

Pros:

• Warm, Rich Tone: Known for its deep, resonant qualities, perfect for genres that benefit from a fuller sound.
• Durability: Higher Janka hardness value translates to better resistance against wear and tear.
• Consistent Grain: Offers a uniform look that’s been a staple in guitar design for decades.
• Resonance and Sustain: Excellent natural sustain and resonance, enhancing the guitar’s overall sound.

Cons:

• Heavier: Can lead to more strain and fatigue during extended playing sessions.
• Costlier: Generally more expensive than Okoume, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• Environmental Concerns: Certain types of Mahogany are at risk of overharvesting, raising sustainability issues.

In summary, while both of these tonewoods have their distinct advantages, your choice will depend on personal preference, playing style, and practical considerations. Okoume offers a lighter, brighter alternative with eco-friendly credentials, whereas Mahogany remains a classic choice for its rich, warm tone and durability.

My Experience With Okoume Guitars

Jamming on these guitars has been a real eye-opener for me. I’ve had the chance to play a few, and each time, I’ve been struck by how they put a new spin on familiar sounds.

Take the Gibson Les Paul with an Okoume body, for instance. It’s lighter than your typical Les Paul, which was a pleasant surprise. It still had that rich Gibson tone but with a brighter edge. It felt like it could handle anything from bluesy licks to hard rock riffs.

Then there was the Ibanez RG series. This tonewood made these guitars feel almost weightless. Perfect for shredding and fast play, the clarity and sharpness in the tone were really something. It’s like every note just cut through more clearly.

I also got my hands on a Taylor acoustic made that had a solid top made of that material. This one was a dream for fingerstyle. The sound was bright and clear, and it projected really well. Plus, it was so light and comfortable to play – a big plus during long practice sessions.

Final Thoughts

Surely, this tonewood brings a unique blend of qualities to the table – its light weight, balanced tonality, and versatility make it a standout choice for a wide range of guitarists.

Whether you’re a gigging musician looking for a comfortable guitar that won’t weigh you down, a studio artist seeking a clear and articulate sound, or an acoustic player in need of a bright and responsive instrument, Okoume offers something special. Its growing popularity among renowned brands like Gibson, Ibanez, Taylor, and Fender speaks volumes about its potential.

From my personal experiences with these guitars, the freshness and distinctiveness of their sound, coupled with the ease of playability, have been consistently impressive. As guitarists, we’re always chasing new sounds, new inspirations, and it is for sure a tonewood that can open up new avenues in our musical journey.

So, if you’re considering your next guitar purchase or just curious about what’s new in the tonewood arena, give that wood a shot. You might just find it adds a whole new dimension to your playing and the music you create.