Thanks for the reply, FM.

There are a few online resellers that appear to carry the ipe bow.  Honestly, I haven't called them to check stocks because I was hoping to try one in person.

This company has a few photos and a description:

http://aplusviolin.com/America.....ow-JLV.htm

I'm interested in ipe as a value proposition because it is stiff like pernambuco but is a faster growing and more sustainable timber.  As long as the quality control is good, it should make better bows than some of the "brazilwood" species.  It's denser than pernambuco but less dense than ironwood.

I'm leaning toward your JP Fusion bow due to your generous return policy....  So it definitely has a unique tonality compared to the all-carbon models?  My Arpege has a pleasing tone with my current violin, but it is so smooth as to be allmost characterless.

I think it's good that you've got a selection of what you know works without overcomplicating things.  Most companies have too many products, which confuses the customer.

I will be in touch....

I'm getting back to the violin after nearly 20 years away.  A bit of new equipment spurs the old enthusiasm, but at the end of the day it's practice, practice, practice.