Quote:
Originally Posted by Folkstrum
Perhaps it's the lack of specificity of what the "select" woods actually are (well, as long as it's not nato!  ).
There were some threads-not terribly long, or enduring here-about African mahogany soon becoming the "new Brazilian"-and put on the CITES list.
|
No information on CITES possabilities, but Martin's wood buyer often posts over at the UMGF and they are having a lot of difficulty getting Mahogany in the right size to make a one-piece neck. Other supplies vary a lot too (remember that Martin is building over 60,000 guitars a year.)
According to a recent post, woods that are being used for necks are:
Bigleaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) with and without wings
Spanish cedar with and without wings
Sapele with and without wings
Aftican Mahogany with and without wings
Nato (Nyatoh) 3 piece necks with scarf joint headstock and glued on heel (Used for the Road Series guitars only)
Maple (occasionally, with or without wings)
Cherry (sustainable Cherry is used for some models)
The frequent changes in supply have necessitated the change to "Select Hardwood" because otherwise they would be constantly changing their marketing materials!