First Mandolin

**logans59** · Jul-01-2012, 4:28pm

Hello everybody, I'm new to the forum and about to purchase my first mandolin. I have been doing a lot of research and I am thinking about the Morgan Monroe MAM-200. I have to keep it under $300 and would like to have a case, which is why I like the MM. I have also been looking at the KM-170's and the Epiphone MM-30S. Have any of you tried any of these or have any other suggestions? I really want a new one for my first mandolin and I know that proper setup is key. Thanks!

**Adam Sweet** · Jul-01-2012, 5:30pm

First of all, the Epiphones and Morgan Monroes are made in the same factory in China. It's a Korean-owned/managed company and the quality is very high (I've been there several times on business). Having said that, you might want to also look at Kentucky mandolins which have a longer track record. Otherwise, I think we're talking about mandolins that are so similar, the primary differences are price.

**Phil1580** · Jul-01-2012, 6:31pm

General consensus around here for a first mandolin under $300 is probably gonna steer toward Kentuckys, the 150 or 160. These can be had from reputable dealers here at the Cafe under $300, with a hardcase. I got my KM150 with a hardcase, tuner, beginner book/DVD and a few picks for $250 with setup and was very happy with the instrument.

**Jim** · Jul-01-2012, 6:45pm

And since nobody has said this yet, in this price range setup is the most important thing. Any of these instruments can be just fine to learn on and play for years but will need the action and intonation set by someone who knows what they are doing.

**logans59** · Jul-01-2012, 7:02pm

Thank You for all of the replies. Has anyone tried the Kentucky KM-170 series? I like the look of the oval sound hole.

**Folkmusician.com** · Jul-01-2012, 7:38pm

If you are interested in a carved Oval Hole, the Kentucky is the way to go. The Kentucky is a nice mandolin. In addition to this, there are few choices at the price point. It is somewhat without competition. I don't think you will find it for under $300 from any of the good dealers (setup well) though.

**logans59** · Jul-01-2012, 8:05pm

So I guess I said that before I really checked the prices. The Kentucky is a little out of my budget so I guess I will wait to get an oval hole. I like the Michael Kelly oval hole better anyway. I'm really leaning toward the Morgan Monroe because I like the look of the Mahogany with no binding. It is also the only one I have actually played and it had a nice woody tone to it.

**Tmcmakin** · Jul-02-2012, 9:48am

You didn't mention your style of play. Are you looking for LOUD or just a good solid tone? I like my new Gretsch Supreme which is all sollid mahogany (top, back, and sides) and I paid $240 for it new. It's not a traditional bluegrass mandolin but has a nice woody and pleasant tone. Setup was decent from the factory but the bridge needed lowering and adjusting for position. Aside from that, not bad.

On just about any of these it's best to have them setup by a good tech.

Todd

**logans59** · Jul-02-2012, 3:12pm

I just got the Morgan Monroe. There is only one store I could find with any kind of mandolin selection close to my house and the did not carry Kentucky so I could not compare them side-by-side. The tech there gave me a great setup as well and it feels great so far