A-5L Question

[Wolfbane Stevens]

Hi, This might just be a crazy question, but.... I am interested in two mandolins elderly has for sale, specifically, the GIBSON A5-L (1998-99) and the GIBSON A5-L (2001). Please see their used section for further clarification and pics.

From inspection of the photographs, it appears that they have a different body shape. - where the neck attaches to the body, it appears that the 1998-99 body style has a more pronounced side curve while the 2001 has less of a curve (rounding out as you travel along the side). I hope that I am explaining this in an understandable manner. Is this just an optical illusion, or did Gibson change their mold at some point? It seems like the older (95-99 vintage) Gibson A's have more of a pronounced curve (more of a "nub shape" where the neck and body join) and that the newer ones have a slightly greater tear drop shape. Am I crazy, or is this true?

Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks!


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[Charlie Derrington]

Hi Wolfbane........

Yes, we did change the body shape. The body chamber on the newer one is closer in size to the Gibson F.

The newer one also has a dovetail neck joint (which I believe sounds better) that is more stable (IMHO).

Both should sound good, but will indeed sound different. Choose the one that speaks to your soul.

Charlie

[b.pat]

Gee guys,can't we get a reply from someone who knows what they are talking about!!
Man you just got to love this place.
Thanks Charlie, you and big Joe add so much to these boards.
B.Pat

[Wolfbane Stevens]

Hey Thanks Charlie D., Talk about getting information direct from the source! I appreciate your response.

Now, not to waste your time, but what kind of neck joint did the older model have and when did the switch occur in the body shape?

On a personal note - I kind of like the older style as it is more remnisant of the traditional Gibson Oval hole shape. Sound and tone will require a trip to michigan to discern. Thanks again for the help!

One last thought - since you said the volume is closer to that of the F, does that give it more punch?

Thanks!

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[telepbrman]

I just bought a use A5-L from Buffalo Brothers, Kerin Strange is the signature I think, and it is dated April 23, 1999. #What type of neck joint/body shape is mine? #Thanks, dy.