Question: I was browsing the Taylor catalog looking to purchase my third Taylor and came across the Big Leaf maple 600 Series. Is it possible to use maple as a soundboard? I have never seen this and wonder if maple is strong enough.
Matt Davies Jacksonville, FL

Answer: Yes, Matt, it’s strong enough, no doubt. And it would probably sound, well, OK, and maybe good, if you picked the perfect piece, kind of like a koa top. So, why don’t we? I can’t say. Maybe because we just don’t do everything or every combination. For the most part, spruce will make a much better-sounding guitar.