I picked up this A model today at Asheville GC. I had seen it online languishing at the Mobile AL store. Apparently there is minimal interest in mandolins that far from the mountains. So I purchased it sight unseen and had it shipped to Asheville.
Things looked and sounded very good at first sight. The varnish finish was in excellent shape with only the slightest signs of wear, revealed a beautiful wide grain Adi top in Sheraton brown. The neck was straight. The frets need a slight dressing. The fingerrest appears to be original but needs tightening to eliminate buzzing. I decided to take it off, as I never use them
A closer inspection revealed a 1.5" separation between back and sides with slight misalignment. I'll have to attend to that right away.
What about the sound? Quite amazing! Loud, brilliant, lively. It made my Lafferty which I had brought along for comparison sound dark and subdued by comparison.
I think I might have found a real gem. Not that it doesn't need a little work. But what 97 year old mandolin doesn't?
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