There are quite few Eastern maples, Rich. I have used rock/hard maple, and won't likely do that again. Aside from being EXTREMELY difficult to work, it sound pretty dead to me. There is something called soft maple whispch I have seen offered for architectural work, but never seen offered as I instrument wood. I have heard of Red maple as viable for carved instruments, but again have never been offered any.
The Big Leaf I use seems great for the task as it carves well, is very nicely figured, and has the acoustic properties I would seek. Besides, I have more of it than I am likely to use in this life, and I have had it for a long time.
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