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Originally Posted by Beamerzz Poplar:
Poplar is derived from fast growing straight medium hardwood trees and is a less expensive alternative to Birch and Maple. Its finish can be somewhat green in color and is therefore used in the inner ply layers as substitute for more expensive and less plentiful woods. To my ear it takes on more of the tone of birch or mahogany than maple. |
FWIW, my late-70s six-ply Ludwig set has tom and bass shells made from a combination of maple plies and poplar plies. I think that as an interior ply, used in combination with other tonewoods, poplar can be quite effective. At least, I'm very happy with the sound of my toms and bass - YMMV.