Yet another newb's topic

[Vabolo]

Alright, you guys probably heard this refrain a million times before, but here it goes:

After playing guitar for six years, I've discovered the existance of mandolins, and found that they looked good. Then, I heard the sound that eminates from them, thanks to Jim Richter, among others, and thought that I should give this instrument a try, but shouldn't blow my (very) limited budget on this.

After many days of searching, lurking, and dreaming, I've found out that:
1) I shouldn't trust low-end Epiphones;
2)I shouldn't get a f-type, as they are more expensive;
3)I should avoid laminated mandolins;
4)There are ELECTRIC mandolins shaped like firebirds;
5)I should probably go with a Kentucky KM-150;

However, after going to a local music store, I saw a Vintage (the brand, not the status) electro-accoustic mandolin, with a red finish, laminated body and 230$ pricetag. I should pobably get pictures to prove its existance.

Being french-canadian, I like Québécois, but also classic rock, like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, most folk music and celtic, gotta love celtic.

So with that being said, I humbly ask you, oh Mandolin Cafe masters, which of the two mandolins mentionned above would be better, or if you have better suggestions, or if you'll give me a boot to the head for being such a newbie.

[Mandolin Mick]

It's kind of like asking someone whether you should have ketchup or mustard on your hotdog. It's a matter of personal taste. I play Kentucky mandolins and am very happy with them and would also never play an electric mandolin. But, you may prefer the electric sound and feel. It's really a matter of taste.

Having said that, I would go with the acoustic Kentucky KM-150 because it's not a novelty instrument and more versatile.

Another opinion recorded ...

[Scott Crabtree]

Kentucky by a mile, once your hooked~well you'll see. ;-)

[allenhopkins]

A few random thoughts: I'm not familiar with Vintage brand instruments, and Google searching doesn't help, because the first zillion hits are for "vintage" with a small "v," as in "antique." So I can't offer any brand-specific advice on your second alternative.

You want to spend, apparently, less than $300 on your instrument. In that price range, if you buy new, you're buying an Asian import mandolin, 90% probability. For acoustic sound, solid wood is generally better than laminated (there are individual exceptions to nearly every rule); the mandolin top is the most important vibrating surface, so a solid wood top is the first priority, back and sides somewhat less important. So what would probably be the best choice in your price range would be an A-style (less expensive than an F-style), Asian-made instrument with a solid top.

The Kentucky KM-140S (note the "S" suffix) has a solid spruce top, laminated maple sides and back. Elderly instruments sells it here (http://www.elderly.com/new_instruments/items/KM140S.htm) for $190 plus shipping. You will probably want a case for it; you can get a gig bag for $25, a chipboard case for $40 or so, even a wooden hardshell for $30 here (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/navigation?q=mandolin+case) from Musician's Friend. Elderly does shop set-up on instruments they sell, so they should arrive in playable condition.

Now, no guarantees, but general principles suggest that you'll get a better acoustic sound from an instrument like this, than you'd get from an all-plywood mandolin like the Vintage. But you're considering going electric -- it's always possible to retrofit a piezo transducer to an acoustic mandolin. Musician's Friend has a wide selection here (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/navigation?q=mandolin+pickup) between $125 and $200. Elderly has a selection here (http://elderly.com/search/elderly?page=2&query_start=21&step=20&days_since=30&catalog=n&cname=Mandolin%20Family%20Instruments&terms=mandolin%20pickup) starting as low as $53 for a Barcus-Berry Outsider. So "going electric" can be done for around $300 or less, with a solid-top instrument made by a recognized manufacturer.

This quick-and-dirty "analysis" leaves out the real possibility of purchasing a used instrument, which is possible with a little research. On the other hand, there is definitely an upside to buying an instrument you have actually had a chance to play, from a local store which presumably will offer adjustment, service, problem solving, trade-in possibilities, and a potential ongoing relationship.

So, factors on both sides, as you make your decision. I'd be inclined to go with a better-known brand with a solid top, learn to play it, and add the electric capabilities later. But, I haven't seen or played the Vintage, and it may be a decent learner instrument. Good luck in making your choice.

[Vabolo]

Well then, I guess before buying anything, I should go to another store to try the Kentucky (and/or other ones) out. And if I do choose the Kentucky, I'll go with the KM-150, because 35$ doesn't sound like too much money for a better sound. Thanks a lot, and merry *insert what you are going celebrate on the 25th here*!