Mango Tree wood for guitars?

[WillMak]

What would this sound liek on a guitar? Does anyone make it? I know there are several ukulele's that use it.

[hnuuhiwa]

I'm having Joel Stehr build one for me now...it was supposed to have been an all mango, but Joel felt that the mango was a bit too soft to use as a top, so we substituted Myrtle instead. As for the sound? I'll let you know in about two months

[Hodges_Guitars]

woods from trees that produce fruit or nuts are usually good tonewoods because of their density. I have not used mango wood, but it is certainly well thought of in the luthier world as a good tonewood.

[lightmage81]

MANGO tree wood?!?!

That would be really fun if it was a viable tonewood... I've got like mango trees lining the street I live on!

[PWoolson]

I got a fun project in the works that is for an "all Hawaiian" guitar. So it's pretty much Koa and Mango. Should be fun though I think the Mango is too soft to use anywhere but appointments (bindings, headplates, etc) I'm sure some have and will continue to build with it but the stuff I have and have seen is pretty soft.

[Howard Klepper]

When I lived in Berkeley, it was more correct to call it persongo.

[PWoolson]

Originally Posted by Howard Klepper

When I lived in Berkeley, it was more correct to call it persongo.

As well as your time in Mad Town. Though perSON is not very PC. We prefer everyone to be called a perbody.
Now back to the topic at hand.

Yes, Mango can be a little soft. My supply and the material I use for back and sides has the same density as honduran mahogany. If you like mahogany guitas you'd probably like one made of mango.

[jlkitch]

I've been told, by those who should know, that Mango sap can cause allergic reactions in some people. Would the wood's finish protect a sensitive player?

Originally Posted by jlkitch

I've been told, by those who should know, that Mango sap can cause allergic reactions in some people. Would the wood's finish protect a sensitive player?

Yes. The finish will create a barrier between the wood and the player. Therefore, it will protect a sensitive player from contact dermatitis.

[steve nm]

Duz anyone have a picture of the wood ?
Steve

[aphillips]

I think they're beautiful -

Here's an uke at Elderly:
http://www.elderly.com/new_instruments/items/KAMC.htm

and another that looks gorgeous
http://ukulele.pua2.com/details/cool158.html

[hann]

someone sould try durian tree wood.. it'd be a top seller here in SE. Asia!

[mishmannah]

Mango wood is beautiful. It is also expensive.

[hnuuhiwa]

Originally Posted by steve nm

Duz anyone have a picture of the wood ?
Steve

Here's a few build pics....