KM 150 or 160 for a beginner

[shortymack]

Hi all, am going to be getting my first mando for a birthday present in a couple weeks and just wanted to know if there is enough difference between the two entry level kentuckys to warrant getting the 160 over the 150. Any feedback would be great.

[Brutus1999]

Well, I'm not sure how different the sound is (assuming both are set up very well, which is important or comparisons are meaningless....) -- but the 160 does have " hand carved and graduated" top while the 150 has a solid top but it doesn't say "hand carved and graduated." In general, that usually means it is better -- probably at least $37 better, which is the difference between the two models (assuming discount). But otherwise, I think they are pretty close ......

[Folkmusician.com]

There are currently two versions of the KM-150 as well. I prefer the older version and when everyone recommends them, that is the one they are likely referring to. 2012 has seen KM-150 mandolins made at two different factories (simultaneously). Most of what is available now will be the new versions. The last batch from the old factory was shipped out to dealers in MAY and there were not a lot of them.

New:


Old Style:

[Brutus1999]

Oh, and everyone has their own tastes in looks, of course, but the 160 comes in a very sweet looking "honey amber" natural color, rather than sunburst ....

[shortymack]

Thanks for the responses. Thats good to know Robert, thank you for the heads up.

[shortymack]

Found a Michael Kelly A in perfect shape w gig bag locally for $130. Worth it? How are those?

[Folkmusician.com]

If it is in good condition, I would snap that up. $130 is a very good price. If it needs much setup work and you have to pay for the work, it is still an OK deal. If at all possible take someone familiar with mandolins with you to look at it. Scratched, beat up mandolins are fine. You are concerned with straight necks, structural issues, fret work, how well the bridge is fit, nut, etc...

[shortymack]

Thank you for taking the time to respond Robert, I really appreciate it and value your opinion. I am going to go and check it out tomorrow but unfortunately the only person I know owns a repair shop and is a luthier and cant go with me. I'll give it the once over as best I can. From the pics it looks very clean and he says it plays incredibly well.

[Johnny60]

I own a KM 162 (basically a 160 in honey amber) and it's a reallly nice mando at that price point. Solid woods, well made, sounds good and stays in tune.