Eastern Poplar ?

[markdavid]

Hi,

Have noticed that some basses (especially the cheaper ones) are made of "Eastern Poplar" . Just curious is this an industry code word meaning that the wood is rubbish or that has been rejected by other companies. Anyone?

[alexclaber]

Poplar is a nice resonant bodywood. However, it doesn't go well with clear finishes, not the prettiest of timbers. It's cheap and easy to work. Not hugely dissimilar to alder.

Alex

[Paul_C]

from wiki:

"Fast-growing hybrid poplars are grown on plantations in many areas for pulpwood and used for the manufacture of paper. The wood is generally white, often with a slightly yellowish cast. It is also sold as inexpensive hardwood timber, used for pallets and cheap plywood; more specialised uses include matches and the boxes in which camembert cheese is sold."

probably not the nicest, hand-selected poplar you might find in expensive guitars, it appears to be common in China where the cheaper guitars are made - I imagine the "fast-growing" bit is part of the reason it's used