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Thread: Kent tater bug

  1. #1
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    Unhappy

    I just got a call from a friend who has an old Kent tater bug style mandolin for sale........$100.00Cdn.

    I wasen't aware that Kent made a tater bug, rather, I thought they had come out with a few electric A type models years ago.

    Supposedly, this mando is in good shape, original nut, bridge, straight neck, etc. Probably original strings too. Haven't had a look at it yet.

    Does anyone have a clue as to what the value of this instrument might be?? Don't really need a wall hanger at present.

    Any help most appreciated.

    Thanks:

    Epi


  2. #2
    Mando-Accumulator Jim Garber's Avatar
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    I believe that the Kents were made by Suzuki and were prob the lower end Suzukis which are decent instruments but were generally over-built as compared to some of the good Italian bowlbacks or even the vintage American ones.

    However, that price is fair I would think. If it is playable and does not need too much work, it might be a good choice for a starter bowlback, should you want one.

    Jim
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    Registered User sunburst's Avatar
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    My sister had a Kent bowlback. It was (is?) a servicable mandolin, not bad looking. I don't know about Suzukis, so I can't say if it is the same thing.

  4. #4
    Mando-Accumulator Jim Garber's Avatar
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    Here is one currently on eBay.

    Jim
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  5. #5
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    Thumbs up

    Thanks all for the information.

    JGarber: After I posted the inquiry, I saw that one on e.bay.
    That's a pretty mandolin. Thanks for the link.

    Epi

  6. #6
    Registered User Cary Fagan's Avatar
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    I have the same Kent (as on ebay) that my parents bought for me about 35 years ago. I never learned a note. Later it became a toy for my kids. Then, in my forties, I dragged it out and started learning. The first thing my new teacher said was, "You need to buy a new mandolin." But it sits on my mantle and looks pretty. I wonder what it sold for originally. (Smiley added by my daughter.)
    Cary Fagan

  7. #7
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    Question

    Well durned ifn I didn't go and look at it. Practically off the shelf condition. Had to give it a good home.

    A set of strings and a wipe with a dust rag later, it's a nice little mandolin.

    Great instrument to play while the rest of the house is asleep. Very quiet, and "tinkly" (word?). No scratches, fret wear, cracks etc. Similar to the one on e.bay.

    Move over Capt. Corelli.

    Epi.

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