Pearwood usually gives a more vibrant tone with greater presence than maple. Although their characteristics are similar when made into a recorder, the much more expensive European variety is to be preferred despite the frequent occurance of knotty blemishes. In the best instruments the characteristic tone is warm and full. Tropical hardwoods were little used in the 18th century but are valued now for their bigger tone and durability. Rosewood, also known as palisander, comes in many varieties and colours, from almost black to light red-brown.
Tulipwood is similar and striped like steaky bacon.
The characteristic tone is more edgy than box, the overtones tending towards oboe tone. Ebony and grenadilla are black and heavy, and the tone more silvery and flute like. Some players come up in a rash as a result of playing one of the resinous tropical hardwoods, palisander in particular. I do myself. Should you discover this after purchase you should be able to get an exchange or a full refund.