Re: Best Mando Under $500
Originally Posted by
Folkmusician.com
Rover RM-75 or the New The Loar LM-520 are both nice all solid, carved instruments in this price range. as mentioned, look for one with a good setup, or plan to have it done locally.
Second Robert's motion! The new "stripped down" The Loars are getting excellent initial evaluations.
And remember: the OP asked about F-model (which I would guess would mean scroll-and-points, carved top, etc.) instruments in the sub-$500 price range. I think it makes sense to respond to Ben's inquiry, before sending him off looking at A-models, flat-tops, etc. The two Robert suggests are all-solid-wood, carved-top Asian-import instruments at that price point.
Standing advice, of course, is to play as many mandolins in that range, as can be accessed, and pick the one that comes closest to what you're looking for. Not everyone has access to a range of mandolins, however, and Rover and The Loar seem to respond directly to the initial request.
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
Bookmarks