HANKY HELP!!!

[Spose]

Lily is going to buy me a mando! What do we have to spend to get something that plays and sounds decent. We can't get a Gibson(I wish) or anything for the big bucks. I just want something to add some color to the acoustic set.
Can I get something for around 5-600 that will serve, or am I dreaming?

Do we have to go over 1K to get something worth while?

I don't want a bowl back.
Help??

[hank]

Spose, we're all dreamers.

In today's world, there are many mandolin options. In that range of price, I'd opt for a good used Flatiron A model of some sort. These are going up in price quickly. The next best option is a newish/new Fender or Kentucky A model with a solid top. There are some Kentucky's out there, F style, with solid tops.

Man, am I wandering. I'll try to look into this later tomorrow. Fortunately, there are options out there.

My thing is bluegrass, so I want a carved top/back mandolin, f-holes, to get a nice bark. You may want a different tone.

It's late, bedtime. I'll revisit this tomorrow. holdonhank

[hank]

Spose, take a look at www.elderly.com

Elderley instruments has the best selection of new and used stuff. Quality mandolins under $1k are a hard thing to recommend. I've seen $250 Fender A models with solid tops that sound darn good. I've played $800 Kentuckys that I would rather burn.

Take a look there and let me know if anything appeals. Check out their "vintage" and "new" links. Click on "mandolin family".

[Spose]

thanks Hanky!
I'll do just that..

[hank]

........ 'course, I got this Dudenbostel if you want to buy another home. ;)