Weber Bitterroot vs. Gibson F-9

[mandopaul]

Has anybody had the chance to play either of these mandos?
I was wondering what the differences in tone were, they are about in the same price range if you get the Weber upgraded with a gloss finish & maple back.

[Michael H Geimer]

I own the upgraded Bitterroot, and am a big fan. I got play an F-9 recently that I didn't think was as strong overall as my Weber. The mandolin player in my BG group has played 'em both, and agrees the Weber is superior. (But, then he's not looking at Webers to buy for himself ... he's looking at Gibsons)

Caveat: I've had mine setup, while the stores wasn't. (I think I was the first mandolin player to touch it) Also, there have been numerous comments about tonal variations among the 9's ... so, I hesitate to make any broad sweeping pronouncements about that line as a whole.

Furthermore ... The F-9 certainly did have that classic dry Gibson tone, in the way the every Martin has something 'signature' in its voice that lets you know it's a Martin. There was definately some mojo going on ... hazy and subjective as that is.

My choice: Weber

Your Millage May Vary

Have fun looking around and trying what you can!

- Benignus

[mandopaul]

Yes, I geuss there would be a more dry tone with the F-9, because maby the lack of a glossy finish affects tone differently than one with a glossy finish. But it all depends on thickness too, and Webers have a thin one. I's just wondering because I just bought me a new Bitt., and its sounds somewhat muffeled, but from what I can tell by playing it should soon begin to (with age) sound different. I never played a Gibson, or Flatiron to compare, but overall am happy with the new addition.:D