Koa

The timber of Acacia koa, a Hawaiian hardwood valued for both its warm voice and its dramatic figure.

Its character sits between mahogany and maple: a sweet midrange, a present but not brittle top end and a slightly compressed, singing quality that suits fingerstyle playing. The figured pieces, with their rolling curl, are attractive enough to be used for whole bodies rather than just caps, and they are correspondingly expensive. The species grows only in Hawaii and is protected there, so supply is limited and prices reflect it.

Example: an all-koa instrument played fingerstyle has a warm, rich sound with a distinct Hawaiian character and a top worth leaving bare.

typical use: Premium acoustic backs and sides, and occasional solid bodies and tops.

Koa

See also