Hi Guy,
The only soldering process that I am aware of that benefits from a matte
finish solder mask is wave soldering.  The reduction in surface tension
between the solder and the mask during contact minimizes solder balling,
pooling and shorting (assuming the flux is evenly applied and dried prior to
wave contact).  Except for intrusive reflow, where paste is intentionally
printed on the mask, I do not know of any benefit that the matte provides
over the gloss.
Some of the other Techies may be able to enlighten me if their experience
tells differently.

Steve Sauer,  Mfg. Engineer
Xetron Corporation

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