Grain. Besides asthetics do you consider your choice for any other reason?

[Deak]

I'm currently looking at a fiver, an Ibanez BTB33NTF. Several choices are available and I noticed right off, side by side, the extreme differences on the top pieces. Some being very tight grain and others being a much more open, wide pattern. Kind of thick for "Laminate" but that still may be the term used, I'm as far from a luthier as you can get (obviously).

Are there any inherent differences in resulting tone that any of you have experienced and are there any reasons to avoid one or the other as far as cracking, splitting etc. in the long run?

This all may be insignificant but I'm curious. I expect since there are so many choices in wood grain, the big name builders don't seem to be too concerned. I've never been curious enough to care until now. I usually go by first impression as far a looks being a "part" of the deciding factor.

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[DigitalMan]

Buy the best looking one.

 

[Billyzoom]

Buy the best looking one.

Simple as that.

 

[abarson]

I'm actually doing lots of multi-grain for breakfast lately. Supposed to be higher in fiber...

 

[Doner Designs]

Buy the best looking one.

Also, some of the online sellers will let you see pics of the actual bass rather than a cherry-picked stock photo.

I'm pretty sure Sweetwater photographs (and sets up) EVERY guitar that goes into their inventory. They don't display all of them on their website, but may be able to show you options if you call or email.

 

[loveandbass]

there is no tonal difference that can be measured with ears

 

[DigitalMan]

I'm actually doing lots of multi-grain for breakfast lately. Supposed to be higher in fiber...

I could have used that today. New rule when traveling: no shellfish

 

[Deak]

Thanks guys. I guess I can check that off my OCD.

Edit; Gonna place my order.

 

[TrustRod]

Some being very tight grain and others being a much more open, wide pattern.

I think what you're seeing is the difference between flatsawn and quartersawn and all the degrees in between. No affect on tone but that won't stop people from hearing it

 

[micguy]

Look for straight grain in the neck. The body? Grain isn't functional there, it's just visual.

 

[Deak]

Thanks @TrustRod and @micguy. I appreciate the response.

 

[RED J]

Wood by nature is greatly variable from piece to piece, but a sound seasoned body blank is going to give you the desired result, a stable body.
People will argue for days over other things a given piece of wood may bring to the finished product, but all other factors being relatively equal, go for the one that is pleasing to your eye.