Taylor has used Sapele for years on their base model instruments. I think it sounds fine.

Stratabond is used by several harp builders to create the pillar and the Arch (Limb?) I'm not sure what the name is. The part what the tuners are in. It can be had 3" thick so I imagine it would make a fine work bench as well.

As necks go this wouldn't be a hobbyists first choice. I'd not like to hand carve it. It would adapt well to CnC routers for production shop work.

Don