I thought I would throw this question out for some valued input. I know this was discussed in the past, but names and participants change, and I am interested in the opinions of all on the MC today.
I am considering A5's and F5's, as well. I am struggling with the scroll and can't seem to get it out of my head. I know the tone and projection are not different, quality being the same, so I am not trying to start an A vs. F argument. I am wanting to concentrate on the F's for right now.
I am sacrificing some of my instruments to put together about $2500 to buy myself a USA built mandolin that will upgrade my experience and with which I can practice and perform (I play out 4-6 times each month).
Who finds the Weber in my price range enjoyable, and what others among you have played or own the Gibson F9? I must admit, I have a thing, as my friend pheffernan says, "with the name across the peghead."
When it is all said and done, I love to play mandolins. I have a number of really nice ones. I haven't been in this ballpark yet.
This is not a "one Vs. the other" discussion. I would like to know others' thoughts on both or either. I am sure they are each great instruments and thus I am sure I could be happy either way. Neck shape and nut width are NOT problems for me. I find that I enjoy a variety of each, on mandolins and guitars. I have played everything from a Gibson A4 traditional V, to a round full neck, and a variety of fretboards, both radiused and flat. I enjoy wide frets and the narrow Kentucky KM1000 traditional variety. I have a 1-3/16 Morris which I absolutely love (it is an A Oval), but I also enjoy a 1-1/8" nut with a flat fretboard. I have come to the conclusion that my favorite is a 1-1/8" and flat.
I play country, folk rock, old timey, gospel and blues. Thanks for the fun discussion and I hope I may learn from your knowledge and experience. The A5's are very enjoyable for me and they are definitely still on the table. I am focusing on the F's because I have to resolve the scroll question and be sure I know if these mandolins are going to work for me for my price. (The A5's I like are Pava and Collings, with the dream of a possible Stanley).
Please forgive me for my long introduction. Blessings!
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