Sapele back and sides set #001

Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum)

Sapele is a highly regarded African hardwood, often used as a premium alternative to mahogany. Known for its consistency, durability, and balanced tonal response, it has become a staple among luthiers for both high-end and production instruments.

These sets are carefully selected from responsibly sourced Entandrophragma cylindricum, properly seasoned to ensure stability and long-term performance. Each piece meets instrument-grade standards, making it ideal for a wide range of acoustic builds.

Minimum Dimensions

Back : 8-1/4″ × 22″ × 0.110″ (210mm × 559mm × 2.8mm)
Sides: 5″ × 31-1/2″ × 0.110″ (127mm × 800mm × 2.8mm)

Warm, Clear, and Versatile

Sapele delivers a warm, balanced tone with a strong midrange presence, tight low end, and clear, articulate highs. Compared to traditional mahogany, it often has a slightly brighter top end and more pronounced treble sparkle, while still maintaining that familiar woody warmth.

Its tonal clarity and quick response make it suitable for both fingerstyle and strumming, offering a controlled and well-defined sound.

Elegant Figure

Color ranges from medium to dark reddish-brown, often deepening with age. One of Sapele’s most attractive features is its natural figuring—ribbon, quilted, or pommele patterns can appear depending on the cut, creating a shimmering, three-dimensional effect under finish.

Sustainable & Dependable

Sapele is widely available and sourced under managed forestry practices, making it a sustainable and reliable choice for builders. Its workability and consistent quality further contribute to its popularity across the industry.