In unknown territory here. A friend has spotted a used Ovation Celebrity MCS-148 Mandolin for $400. Reportedly in “like new” condition and includes the Ovation rectangular case. She said her interest is primarily because of the electronics – specifically that she wants an inexpensive mandolin that she can plug and play during open mics and to use when she gigs at her local pub. She asked for my opinion if the price was reasonable and whether the electronics and the overall quality would give her an acceptable performing mandolin.
I explained that I don’t know anything about Ovation mandolins. Further I am not able to accompany her to examine it. She fully realizes that it won’t have the voice or the feel that she’s getting from her Collings MT. Her opinion is that it’s somewhat affordable and she likes the way it looks, but she doesn’t want an instrument where the electronics will give her constant grief or component failures will cause her to spend more on repairs than the mandolin’s cost.
I told her I would try to get some quick information. So, can anybody give me a quick rundown on specifically the Celebrity MCS-148. (Not looking for alternatives at this point.) Is it worth the asking price? Is it worth purchasing?
Many thanks!
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