Phoenix neoclassical?

[Mamacita]

I know there are some real Phoenix Bluegrass fans on this board, but can anyone tell me about their Neoclassical. I'm a former violinist and I play more classical and celtic stuff, plus a bit of bluegrass. I've looked at all the info on the web and I'm considering making a big step up to the Neoclassical. But it's not like you can bop down to the local store and try one out. Anyone in the North Texas region have one that I could look at?

Or at least give me your opinions....y'all are good at that!

Gracias

[Spencer]

About a year ago, my son purchased a Phoenix Deluxe. Before he bought it, he listened to the mandolin videos from the Folk of the Woods store, which by the way is in New Mexico. There are many sound/video samples of all kinds of mandolins, and while the quality is not all that spectacular, the relative comparisons between instruments turned out to be useful. The basic nature of the sound was what he expected after comparing with the other instruments on the site, and he is very pleased with the instrument. He plays celtic music on it, and it would work for bluegrass as well. It is considered to be between the bluegrass and classical sound, a pretty good description. For type of music you are interested in, I think the neoclassical is definitely worth considering.

I have not heard a neoclassical live, but know that Rolf Gerhardt is a very competent builder, and can get the sounds he is looking for.

Here is the website for the videos:

http://www.folkofthewood.com/page2518.htm

Spencer

Can't help you with the Neoclassical but I have both a Bluegrass & NeoBluegrass just North of Tyler. Remember the Neoclassical is designed for light strings only....

[Jim M.]

You can see and hear a Neo being played at:
http://www.co-mando.com/resources/MOTW/index.php

Very cool, IMHO. I'm a fiddler too and think the Neoclassical has something fiddle-like in its tone.

I'll add that Dale has a great reputation as a dealer, so you may want to talk to him even if he doesn't currently have a Neoclassical.

[JimD]

I have been using a Neoclassical for several years and absolutely love it. I play classical, celtic, various kinds of world music and jazz. I've used it to perform solo, chamber music, with bands, with orchestras and it never disappoints. I find that I can get a great tonal variety and all the volume I need.

Rolfe is a great builder. If you are not playing as much bluegrass as other styles (like me), the Neoclassical may be the instrument for you. You should check out his other models as well.

Let me know if you have any specific questions. I'll do my best to answer them.

Jim

[Lee]

I have a Deluxe. Sorta a cross between the Neo and BG models. The build quality and the playability of the neck is superlative. It's a lightweight and extremely responsive instrument. You absolutely must try a Phoenix because words will not describe just how unique these mandolins are in the mandolin world. I would not part with mine until the roof over my head was in jeopardy. I know, because I've been there.