Acoustic Finishes
Another consideration often overlooked is the guitar's finish. Most guitars use lacquer but many high-tech polymers are increasingly being used. Generally, glossy finishes are thicker than matte finishes. As a result, there is a potential for glossy finished guitars to resonate less that their matte finished counterparts. Manufacturers of premium guitars; however, have spent years formulating finishes for their guitars. Their guitars will sound great regardless of the finish. Expect to pay a well deserved premium for this attention to the finishes contribution to sound.
It is often said that, as a guitar ages, it's sound improves. This is largely due to it's finish breaking down over time, becoming brittle and thin (and, not too shiny in the long run). New polymers hold up much better over the years than old-time lacquers and will retain their gloss as long as the guitar is well taken care of. Some controversy exists as to whether these finishes are as good in terms of aging and its effects on sound. Regardless, a guitar Regardless, a guitar that sounds good in the store will good at home despite its age.