Hi, I doubt it would have any effect on the sound. the question is what effect would it have on the isolation. The maple will be about 25% heavier for the same size. If your TT stand is on concrete and the stand is sturdy I would go with the walnut for aesthetic and durability reasons. Maple expands and contracts more than walnut with humidity changes so it is more likely to check with age. I can not think of any situation that the extra weight would be a sure benefit. If you have bouncy floors the only things that will help are tip toes or a well suspended table. I n that case a wall shelf would be the best way to go and again I do not think there would be a significant difference. I would go with the walnut, oiled if possible. Shame to lacquer such beautiful wood.
How does wood hardness affect the sound of a TT on a wood TT platform?
I'm interested in purchasing a Butcher Block Acoustic TT platform for my Luxman PD-171A TT. The Maple Block has a Janka Wood Hardness Scale of 1450 while the Walnut is rated at 1010. How does the hardness of wood affect the sound ? Trying to decide which way to go.