I noticed last year when I bought walnut natural satin M5s for my FWB, they were considerably lighter than my M5s with black vinyl. Then when I received my 160 in walnut natural satin, it was considerably lighter than my 160 black vinyl. Both the new M5 and 160 sounded terrific though. I reported this on the boards a few times.
As for poly for satin finish, I really don't know what to look for. It certainly doesn't feel like just raw wood; there's some coating on it.
I haven't noticed any weakness where I feel I need to treat them with kid gloves. I've moved mine around a lot without any damage whatsoever. Of course more changes may have been made since I got mine.
Yeah, the vinyl for sure was hardy but you know that changed since 2007. Still hardy but nicer grain on the black oak vinyl.
Last edited by Mojo; 10/07/20 06:20 PM.
