Re: Newbie here...Info on Sigma sm-3s
Martin had Sigma mandolins made in Korea. The SM-3 is the quasi-generic two-point, oval-hole copy of the '60's Gibson A-5, with the scroll headstock.
I think, based on rapidly dissolving memories of that period, that the "s" suffix meant a solid top, a plus. Don't bet the farm on that, though. SM-3's have been on the market for $200 or less; dunno what you paid for yours, but if it has a solid top, could have a market price a bit higher.
My experience with Martin's Sigma imports is generally positive -- decently made instruments. However, most of the Sigma instruments I ever played were guitars; don't believe I ever had a Sigma mandolin around.
If you like it, and if you paid a reasonable price for it, could be a good player until you get your Eastman. The Gibson A-5 was the mandolin associated with "Jethro" Burns, a world-class jazz etc. player, so the two-point, oval-hole shape got popular for a period in the '60's and '70's. You'll see Aria, and other Asian brands, with that look, as well as Sigma.
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
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