RSDMM #19 followup review

[red7flag]

I have had #19 for about three weeks. I need to mention that this instrument had not been played much at all. The previous owner became wrapped up with another type of stringed instrument. Even not having been played #19 sounded great when first delivered, but not particularly loud or full. With a great deal of playing in the past three weeks, #19 has became a canon. But, nor just a canon, this baby has a full clarity on the A and E strings. It sings with depth and fullness. The mids and lows are powerful and woody. A G chop barks with that traditional Gibson/Loar sound. Not only a great grass instrument, this baby can play any genre with taste and class. You can play with great tone with even the lightest touch. I am simply amazed by this lovely instrument. If there was anything I could change without effecting the tone would be taking away the distressing. I have been told by many I respect that the distressing greatly influences the tone. So I guess I will have to suffer. May others be so lucky.

[f5loar]

That's why Picky Ricky won't sign them until they meet his 100% approval for "Rawhide".

[red7flag]

f5loar, What do you.see as the major differences between the DMM and the RSDMM?

[f5loar]

I was told it was the neck shape. The ones I've played I couldn't tell much difference. They are all hand shaped so there is going to be some difference. I don't recall picking one where the neck was too thin like some late '24's I've picked on.

[red7flag]

Any hardware, wood selection, or any.other differences

[red7flag]

Up until getting the RSDMM, I have a number of great instruments that fit certain roles. The Stanley is a kick tail Monroe bluegrasser, the Elllis has a modern sophisticated sound, the F4 just sings. The RSDMM does it all. Sings on the high strings. Barks the chords. Back off and play subtle, even classical. Noodle with the best of them. I never thought I would have an instrument that would meet all my needs. Well, I have. The other great instruments I have are getting dust. I am seriously consider selling some of them, but it pains me to even consider. #19 is truly the mandolin of my dreams. Never would have thunk it.

[pjlama]

Awesome Tony, it's great to find "the one".

[f5loar]

You are one of the few who can own and experience the peak of the 2nd great era of Gibson F5 mandolins. I have yet to pick a DMM I didn't like and would love to own each and every one of them.