Woods similar to Koa?

[MPU]

In my process of Alembicizing my Kawai I came across an idea of backstrapping the headstock. My bass has Koa topped wings. I've had no luck finding Koa veneer in sensible sizes and prices. What other wood would look the most like Koa? I'm looking for five headstock-sized pieces of veneer. Of course if someone has a lead on some supplier who has Koa in this small sizes it would be cool.

 

[Bruce Johnson]

In my process of Alembicizing my Kawai I came across an idea of backstrapping the headstock. My bass has Koa topped wings. I've had no luck finding Koa veneer in sensible sizes and prices. What other wood would look the most like Koa? I'm looking for five headstock-sized pieces of veneer. Of course if someone has a lead on some supplier who has Koa in this small sizes it would be cool.
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The closest wood in look that I can think of is mahogany. Some mahogany has wavy grain and that golden brown color.

 

[Beej]

Rothko and Frost carry Koa headstock veneers, but they are spendy!
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[lbridenstine]

Tasmanian Blackwood

But also, check this seller on ebay: A.M.Ranch-Hawaii | eBay Stores

 

[MPU]

I found that Rothko and Frost and that's quite spendy. A.M.Ranch has no inventory to my location. I guess I'm going with mahogany. The neck has mahogany stripes so mahogany will look nice.

 

[TrustRod]

As mentioned Acacia melanoxylon aka Australian blackwood, Tasmanian blackwood, Acacia blackwood can be a close match as it's the same genus.

Some Monkey Pod can also match well.

 

[MPU]

After few days of going back and forth with buy or not to buy I ordered a koa headplate from Rothko and Frost. A bit pricey at around 30€ shipped but I'm not spending my last money on this so.... besides if I want koa I have to pay koa. I'm hoping to get our sauna renovated next week and have time for some pickup and bass building.

 

[TFM94]

I'm hoping to get our sauna renovated next week

Nice, but I hope you're not using Koa for that

 

[MPU]

Nice, but I hope you're not using Koa for that

I’m not that wealthy by any means. Sauna will have ”tonewoods” anyway, spruce and alder.