The new G&L L-2500s come with an American Tilia body. I've heard that this wood is related to Basswood. First off, is this true? Second, what are the tonal qualities of Tilia and is it a soft wood like basswood? Thanks

Basswood is Tilia. (species tilia americana). They are the same thing.

US Dept. of Agriculture Forest Service listing (http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/tilame/introductory.html)

Thanks alot

It might be noted that while basswood is soft, it is known to be a good-sounding wood. It is also inexpensive, and so is used on some cheap basses.

G&L switched to basswood for their 5s a few years ago. The stated reason was in order to reduce the weight while maintaining a good tone. In a way, I admire them for taking a chance, in that people could reject the basses just because of the association with cheaper brands.

If I remember correctly, alder is not particularly hard either, but it has an air of legitimacy because it is standard for Fenders.

Also, I think I remember (I could be wrong) Mike Tobias using it for an MTD. And you know he wouldn't choose it because it is cheap!