Koa refers to a variety of woods in this family and literally translates to “warrior,” in Hawaiian. In general, Koa is lightweight and offers the crisp, clarity of maple, and the warmth and thick tone found in Rosewood. Koa instruments may sound bright off the shelf, but the more they’re played, tones become richer, sweeter, and more resonant, with a rich low end and well-rounded sparkle overall.