I have suddenlly decited I want to build a marimba. I know this is going to be no small undertaking. I have searched the net and found little information on sizes of bars. And I interested in what kind of wood would work best. I've heard rosewood and paduak for some. Any help you can give me would be greatful.
Bryce

Bryce,
Didn't you e-mail me about this a while ago? I forget. Anyway, WOW!! I had the same impulse 30 years ago, and followed it through...So DO IT!! As simplistic as it may seem, one suggestion I would have is to begin by copying another marimba that you like..The bars are the most crucial aspect and should be Honduras rosewood..Don't even mess around with other woods (except for your own pleasure) . everybody's already tried it--purple heart, coco bolo, lignum vitae,etc.... Padouk is an acceptable second BUT...you will learn more from the real thing. One big difficulty is getting properly dried wood..(Actually, the best wood I've ever found is 2-3 tons I bought in 1972 from Belize.) BUT..try to get some from a specialty hardwood importer..and go to town !!

Bill Youhass
Fall Creek Marimbas www.marimbas.com

Bryce,
One more thing, when you get into rosewood, wear a good respirator. Rosewood, and most other tropical woods, can be quite toxic, and cause anything from a slight allergic reaction to a trip to the hospital (rather rare, I hope). I've been doing this for about 30 years and ALWAYS wear are very high end respirator...Good luck again,
Bill- Fall Creek