Student searching for the right mandolin

[alexamillion]

Hey everyone. I'm a relatively new mandolin player and have been playing on a very inexpensive mandolin for the past year and a half. I've been taking lessons at my college (in bluegrass, though I'm not completely committed to the style) and recently, I've decided to upgrade to an instrument that has a little more ring to it. I'm willing to spend between $500-550, but I don't really know where to start when it comes to shopping. I've tried out a bunch of really nice, used mandolins in that price range, but none of them are exactly what I want. I'm looking particularly for a mandolin that has a shallow, thin neck, and low action (I have very small hands).

I'm also not opposed to electro-acoustic mandolins (unless people generally think using a pick-up is better).

Thanks for your help!
Alexandra

[John Kinn]

A well set-up Kentucky KM505 might fit your bill. They have slim necks. Check out the Mandolin Store.

[Jill McAuley]

I second the vote for the Kentucky KM505, and I'd also throw the Eastman 505 into the mix - they have quite a slim neck profile. Both are quality instruments, all solid woods, that you'll get a lot of mileage from. Try to buy from a reputable online or bricks and mortar dealer that will include a set up in the price. Any of the cafe's sponsors would fit the bill in that regard.

Cheers,
Jill

[Jim MacDaniel]

These two (KY & Eastwood) models seem to the most often recommended f-hole instruments in your price-point. Comparable instruments with scrolls will cost you several hundred $ more, so these both offer far more bang for the buck compared to similarly priced F5 clones. (I haven't played the Eastman, but I like the neck on the Kentucky, and prefer the aesthetics of its finish color and headstock shape over that on the Eastman.)

[swampstomper]

The usual advice (search past threads) includes a visit to a reputable dealer with a variety of instruments in your price range. A good dealer stands behind their instrument, will do setup, often will let you trade up, knows their product etc. etc. And you will know the instrument fits *your* hands and *your* style of play. A good dealer will work with your budget and get you into the best instrument for that. They know you'll be back... MAS will strike... so you are quite unlikely to be railroaded or gouged.

The models mentioned are fine, so try to find a dealer that has these and similar.

[JEStanek]

I've not played the Kentucky 505 but I have played Eastman mandolins (804 F-oval and 805D 2 point f holes) they have a pronounced V shaped neck with a narrower neck width than Breedloves, Webers, Morgan Monroes that I have played and compared them too. I would recomend trying to get your hands on any Eastman to try it out. Our Café Sponsors can also assist you in your search. I've dealt with the Mandolin Store and been very happy.

Jamie

[David Engdahl]

I am also fairly new to mandolin. I recently purchased a kentucky km505 and am very happy with the fit,finish, and most importantly the sound. It has that bark and clarity that was missing from the previous 2 mandos that I had (km250 and a morgan monroe mf1). You can't go wrong for $420

[Capt. E]

I wonder if you can buy stock in the Kentucky KM-505?

It is hard to beat the Kentucky KM-505 these days in regards to quality vs price. The Loar 600 seems to be the other choice in your price range if you insist on having an F model instead of an A, but the neck is not as thin.

[Tim2723]

Hi Alexandra and welcome,

Other than those already mentioned, which are excellent choices in your price range, was there any particular reason you mentioned acoustic-electrics and pickups? Do you intend to play out amplified? Is there a technology requiment we need to help you fill on your budget as well?