Kentucky 620S?

[AppBrookie]

I'm new to the mandolin and have been looking around for a couple of months for something to get started on. I have ruled out the $100 starters at the local shops. Stopped by a mom & pop store today about 30 miles from the house and he had a new Kentucky 620S for $299 without the case. In my very novice opinion, it seemed like a nice mandolin for the money, much easier to make chords, solid feel, etc. What do you guys think??

[Darren Kern]

I would pass on that model if I were you, simply because it's got a laminated top. For $300 you can get a halfway decent A model mandolin that is all wood and not laminated. Welcome to the Cafe, by the way http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[wichitamando]

Last year, I bought a Kentucky KM-380S as my first mando. It has a pretty good sound to it and was only $325. All solid, but it's an A not an F.

[Cletus]

I too own the KM-380S and it is very good for the price. My teacher says I should keep it even when the scroll envy hits.

[Eric F.]

The 380S is a MUCH better mandolin than the 620. I have a 250S and it is also a much better mandolin than the 620. I lent mine to someone for serveral months and have been surprised since I got it back at how decent it sounds. Do not fall for the lure of the scroll, especially on a low-end mandolin. It's a waste of money. If you shop wisely and wait to pounce on a bargain, you might find a used Mid-Missouri for that kind of money. That's always a good first mando.

[newblue]

There are a few on this board who have come across a Michael Kelly Legacy Delux on Musicians Friend for only $299. I am not one of the lucky ones mine was much more. Also Musicians Friend is a Washburn listed as a Referb for $299. No financial interest, but 300 bucks will buy a solid F style.

[ahollan]

I am not familiar with the 620S, but I have played a 620 that was passed around at a jam. Good tone, good volume and it stayed in tune. If you decide you want an F-style and the price is good, it should serve you well.

While the 620 appeared to be a laminated top and the scroll was not carved, the top was arched and it had the characteristic tubby tone of an F-style.

The 620S may be different. I don't know. I have never seen one. Could the "S" mean "solid"?

ahollan

[angrymandolinist]

I love my 250S, which I got for $250. Had it for about a year now, and it keeps sounding better and better (not to mention louder). You could get it nicely set up with the extra cash too.

[flairbzzt]

I have a brand new MK Legacy Classic w/ case I'll deal with you (or anyone else if you're not interested)on. It's all solid and I'll sell it cheaper than any other of the same out there. PM or e-mail me.

[8ch(pl)]

Pretty sure the "S" does designate solid top, don't know abour back and sides.

[Darren Kern]

From Folk of the Wood's info page on this mando:

Kentucky KM-620S: (2 Currently in Stock as of 9/10/04) F-Style Mandolin • Gloss Sunburst Laminated Spruce Top • Maple body; Multi-Ply Binding • Long F-5 Scale Maple Neck w/adjustable truss rod • Extended 29-fret bount ebony fingerboard • 12th fret neck/body joint • Inlaid Mother-of-Pearl Dots • Mother-of-Pearl Peghead Inlay • Adjustable Compensated Rosewood Bridge • Gold-Plated Hardware • High Gloss Sunburst Finish • F-Holes
(Total Retail Value: 595.00/Current Sale Price: 395.00)

[dr.jazz]

Don't buy an 'F' for the first mando. You get much much more quality for the money in an 'A' model. The scroll is a very expensive strap-pin. Nothing more! Kentucky 'A' at this price is a good choice. For double or triple the price the next step is an Eastman. Good Luck.