View Full Version : Buying a first mandolin
mr. pocket
Apr-24-2010, 4:09pm
I've played other peoples mandolins for years, some nicer, most pretty bad. I'm going to buy my first mandolin pretty soon here, and would like some recommendations. I know there is a lot of information out there, and have spent some time sifting through it, but thought asking the specifics would help.
My budget is $400 for a new or used A, I would also like to eventually play amplified, but acoustics are more important for now.
I played a few kentuckys and eastwoods this week- none of them were set up well, so I couldn't get a good idea of them. I found a MMS-8W Rocky Top, for 400, but wanted some second opinions on this model and some other models to look out for as well as opinions on new vs old.
Tim2723
Apr-24-2010, 4:24pm
Hi and welcome,
In the $400 range, you'll get more bang for the buck in a used instrument. At least you've had some experience with mandolins, and that's a big advantage. Our classified section and site sponsors are a great place to start. If you've only played mandolins without set up, you're not getting the best picture, but it sounds like you know that. A lot of the sellers here (and dealers of new instruments) know the importance of set ups, and you'll get a big leg up because of it.
Mandolin Mick
Apr-24-2010, 4:46pm
Most guys here would recommend getting a used Kentucky or Eastman. I concur, and would lean toward a Kentucky, since I am a happy owner.
I would also recommend the classifieds here instead of going the Ebay or Craigslist route. That way you'll get something that has been owned and sold by a serious musician and his reputation is at stake here.
mr. pocket
Apr-24-2010, 6:08pm
Most guys here would recommend getting a used Kentucky or Eastman. I concur, and would lean toward a Kentucky, since I am a happy owner.
I would also recommend the classifieds here instead of going the Ebay or Craigslist route. That way you'll get something that has been owned and sold by a serious musician and his reputation is at stake here.
Thanks for the replies, I wouldn't buy an acoustic instrument from ebay, I've been checking out the classifieds here. One of the eastwoods that I played had a nice thick neck, 505 i think it was and a much deeper sound than the kentuckys. the best playing one was a km380S that had some really nasty finish drips under the fretboard, but i liked eastman neck and tone more. what should I look to pay for one of these, and are they good instruments to grow with?
Just some background, I've played guitar for 10 years and have always thought I had a feel for mandolin, so I might progress quickly
Jill McAuley
Apr-24-2010, 6:17pm
I would say look at the Kentucky KM505 - I've played a bunch of them and think that they're great bang for the buck - or try finding a used Eastman 505 - they do pop up here in the classifieds from time to time but tend to move fast.
Cheers,
Jill
I totally agree with Jill. And when you get two Jills giving you the same advice, you can't go wrong. :)
jillian
MandoNicity
Apr-24-2010, 8:02pm
I've never played either, but I read through the forums on a daily basis and I can tell you that the Kentucky and Eastman 505's both get highly recommended reviews from everyone posting here. The consensus seems to be these 2 mandos for bang-for-buck starting out.
JR
Here's a vote for the Kentucky KM-505 available new for just a hair over your $400 budget at a couple of the Cafe's sponsors (case and great setup included). I love mine.
mr. pocket
Apr-25-2010, 9:06am
Here's a vote for the Kentucky KM-505 available new for just a hair over your $400 budget at a couple of the Cafe's sponsors (case and great setup included). I love mine.
excellent, thanks again for all the help and the welcome.
rgray, where did you buy yours? I would love to have one come with an excellent set up.
The km-505 seems to be sold out everywhere, there is a new model, the km-500 that is a km-505 in sunburst finish. anyone have any opinion on the km-350? I read somewhere that it is the same, but less ornate, mandolin as the km-505.
The Mandolin Store. I see they are currently out of stock. Folkmusician.com is showing they expect to have one (or more) later this month. Lots of good comments for both stores here on the Cafe. Suggest giving both a call.
JEStanek
Apr-25-2010, 3:31pm
Welcome to the Café!
For that money the Kentucky KM505 is a great choice based on peoples experiences posted here. While I've not played a Kentucky 505, their reputation for consistent good build when well set up holds fast. The Eastman 505 or 605 (used) (dang model numbers get confusing when they're nearly identical) is a good choice too. However, the Eastman mandolins have a narrower V shaped neck. if you like a chunkier neck they may not be for you. Good luck and if you have to wait a couple more weeks that would be wiser than spending money on something that's not as good or as good fitting as you can get.
Jamie