Arches FT-O question

[draino]

The Arches website states "The new Arches FT mandolins are an exciting redesign of the original Arches Flat-tops." The Mandolin Store currently has a used FT-O for sale:

http://www.themandolinstore.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=9099

I have played, and fallen in love with a birdseye maple FT-O:

http://themusicemporium.com/product-detail/product/arches%20ft%20oval%20birdseye.html

I notice a few differences between the one at TMS and the one I have fallen head-over-heals in love with (in addition to back/side material): rosette, headstock overlay. As I hunt for a used FT-O, I'd like to be able to assess the differneces between the original Flat-top and the redesign. Thus, any insight on the following would be greatly appreciated:

(1) Does anyone have hands on experience with both the redesigned FT-O and the original to compare/contrast?

(2) Is there a way to tell the difference between a redesigned FT-O and an original Flat-top?

Thanks for any help!

[Gerry Cassidy]

I have a new one and love it. It would get my vote to go on the "One of the best deals out there" list.

I've never had the chance to play one of the originals so I can't answer the comparison question, but I believe one of the big differences is the new design has an induced (ever-so-slightly) arched top.

Chris Baird is the builder and a great source for info. Very nice guy and very happy to answer any questions in my experience. Maybe try giving him a shout...

[banJoe]

I can't comment on the previous design either,sorry, but I also have one of the newer FT-Os and agree with Gerry that they are absolutely a bargin in a great playing and sounding mandolin. Chris seems like a pretty easy-going guy. I would guess that he would love to talk to you about the updates to his flat top design.

[draino]

Thanks for the comments. I sent an inquiry to Chris. I have been seriously blown away by that instrument at the Music Emporium. I've spent two afternoons trading between it, the teens Gibson A they have, and a Collings MT-O. Even ignoring price tags, the FT-O is the instrument my ears and fingers gravitates towards. Especially hitting an A note on the G string. I could've sat their playing Angeline the Baker for hours just to hear that sound...

Don't know why I hesitated on the used model at TMS -- it appears to have sold. Oh well. I really have my heart set on birdseye model anyway. Just need to convince myself that $1200 is justified, when my little Kentucky KM-150 is doing a-okay as it is.

[Chris Baird]

Hi, The older flattops are a more teardrop shape, deeper in body but smaller surface area. The older ones tend to be a bit rounder/tubbier in tone. The newer flattops are the same shape as my A-archtops, a bit more surface area but shallower body, they are a bit more focused in tone, which is a bit more versatile. But, I like the older ones too. Both the newer and older model have an induced arch. Hope that helps.

[draino]

Thanks, Chris, that helps a lot. And your description of the FT-O tone as being "focused" is definitely accurate...you really have designed a great little instrument.

[steve V. johnson]

I've had two of the original ones, they're fantastic. The new ones at $1200 are one of the greatest values on the planet, IMO.

stv