Tiger Myrtle (Nothofagus Cunninghamii)
Often referred to as Myrtle Beech, this timber is native to Victoria and more commonly Tasmania. An excellent cabinetry timber which has a hard and close grain. Tiger myrtle is extremely sought after by woodworkers and it is limited in supply. Tiger Myrtle is perhaps the rarest of the Myrtle colour decorations, the “tiger stripe” of contrasting dark brown - black is caused by fungal discoloration. The most dominant tiger stripe is displayed in quarter sawn timber as used in stave snares. Tonally it is warm with an even balance across all frequencies. It produces a fat sound tuned loosely and is equally impressive at a higher tuning. Suitable to all musical genres.
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Purpleheart (Peltogyne)
This species is native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Purpleheart is extremely hard, dense and very stable. Tonally it has been compared to maple with more mid and low frequencies prevalent. It sounds great whether tuned low or high and does not choke as with maple when highly tuned. Overtones are less prevalent than with maple yet it still has a full dynamic range. Visually this wood is also stunning and highly sought after by luthiers and stave drum builders.
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Tasmanian Oak (Eucalyptus delegatensis)
Otherwise known as Australian or Victorian ash, this species is very warm, dense and extremely resillent. The workability of the timber is extremely good and finishing qualities are excellent. In drum form it produces a warm woody tone with a prominent snap or crack that is quite stunning. We try to source this timber in figured form as it becomes visually stunning for a lighter timber.
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Blackheart Sassafras (Atherosperma moschatum)
One of the most sought after timbers from Tasmania, sassafras has one of the most variable and dynamic colourings of any species. If the tree is infected with a staining fungus it produces Blackheart sassafras. Blackheart is a timber with distinctive dark brown, black, and even green streaks running through the wood. It is highly prized for decorative work, bowl turning, amazing veneers, and furniture making. As an instrument timber it produces a well rounded tone with reduced highs and muffling is virtually obsolete for studio recording.
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Queensland Maple (flindersia breyleyana)
A large rainforest hardwood from Northern Qld. Heartwood is a pale pink brown. Grain is slightly course and often has a fiddleback figure. This timber is highly sought after by luthiers including Maton Guitars whom use it in the majority of there guitars. Works very well by hand or machine. Mainly used for fine furniture. The frame work for the Speakers Chair in the Australian Parliament uses this timber. The sound produced is well balanced with an even balance across all frequencies.
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Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)
Often referred to as Tasmanian Blackwood this species belongs to the wattle family and is often used by luthiers and in fine cabinetry. This timber varies with tones from light golden brown to deep brown with occasional black streaks. Grain varies from straight to wavy that adds additional character. It is an extremely stable timber and the resulting tonal qualities are exceptional. It has a warm sound and is quite mellow and suited to all musical genres.
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