BClark
Aug-01-2010, 7:31pm
Can't play a lick, but I would like to learn. Looking at a Tyler Mountain TMM-60 as a starter. Any comments appreciated.
Folkmusician.com
Aug-01-2010, 8:29pm
Hello,
I have never seen one in person, though looking at the mandolin I do recognize the factory it is made at. The main thing with something like this will be the setup. It is very important that you verify the dealer does a "good" setup, or you are prepared to take it to a local shop and have it done. Assuming that it is setup well, it should be fine to learn on.
I emphasize the setup, because I have seen many other brands from this same factory, and if someone stateside did not do the setup (either the distributor, or the dealer), the mandolin may be VERY difficult to learn on. :)
blueron
Aug-01-2010, 10:08pm
Solid advice from the professionals at FolkMusician.com, BClark, but they (politely) fail to point out that of course you have many other options out there.
I see the Tyler has a list price of $849 - which is a LOT for what you get. Sure, it is available online for under $600, but as a newcomer to the mandolin you are probably not aware that, of the $600, you are spending about $250 just for the fancy-schmancy f-scroll shape.
It is well documented on this forum that the f-scroll gives you NOTHING by way of improved sound, meaning that you'd be devoting a third of your budget to a cosmetic feature - money far better spent on a better instrument that doesn't charge you for an f-scroll, i.e., an 'A' style mandolin. For about $500 you can get a fine quality A instrument from Eastman or The Loar or Kentucky. All of these will be better constructed, designed and appointed than the Tyler. If you are REALLY keen on the f-scroll, The Loar LM600-VS (search for it here on the forum) is not much different from the price of the Tyler, and is almost certainly a MUCH better instrument.
FolkMusician highlighted why it's important to get as good an instrument as you can afford, as well set up as possible. As a beginner, the ease with which an instrument can be played is a huge factor in determining how well you learn, how quickly you learn - and how unlikely it is that you give up after a short time (as many, many folks do).
br