new/old soundboard wood

[Ron Nossaman]

>Though in no way can my feeble knowledge compare with your 
>years of experience, I may have something to offer.  I have done 
>some reading on qualities of old wood, specifically in reference to 
>violin making.  As you know, old, seasoned violins are far more 
>valuable than new ones, in part due to the fact that the tonal quality 
>is enhanced by the wood's age.  I have read that this quality 
>difference happens on the cellular level with wood, in that the 
>"protoplasm" and "cytoplasm" in the cells turns more resinous with 
>age, and therefore conducts vibrations from nearby strings and 
>through the bridge more efficiently.
>

>Doug
>

I would tend to dissagree with this premise of violins improving with age
too. How about let's compare an old 'Strad' with a brand new one and find out?

Regards, 
 Ron