Spent some time at Carter Vintage yesterday......

[fernmando]

And the standout mandolins were the 2017 Northfield Artist, and a recent Kimble A model. There was an early Givens that was no slouch. I probably played 20 or so mandolins, with these being the best to my ear. The Northfield had a loud pop on the treble strings that sounded like 20k. I played both Gibson A5-Ls, looking for some comparison to my Carlson-signed '89 A5-L. Not even close. There were a few also-rans, but these were the standouts.


Roscoe Morgan

-your friendly neighborhood mandolin reporter-

[Bill Kammerzell]

Carter's is too much fun. The only photo the wife took that day. Playing an F-4 from the late teens or early 1920's. June 29th 2016.

[Grimm]

I quickly ran through most of their mandos 2 weeks ago and I agree with your stand-outs. There was also a collings MT2 that spoke to me as well as that big mean mandocello they had. I think the name was a Rattlesnake?
I have wanted to visit their store for quite a while now so it was a real treat. (I'm based out of Idaho)
It was my first time being able to play high dollar mandos and compare them to the one I purchased last year for my first instrument.
I'm sure everyone knows, but I'd say it is definitely worth going to Carter!

[Mark Wilson]

On the way back to North Carolina from Kansas City and found ourselves in Nashville yesterday morning. Went over to Carter Vintage around opening time. Fantastic inventory of mandolins! I didn't get to play them all but the two Gilchrist F5s absolutely sounded great to me, living up to their tag and reputation. The Heiden F5 was a stand out as well. I definitely want to go back when I'm looking for the next 'last' mandolin I'll ever need.

Lunch at Arnolds (next door to Carter's) was incredible. This is a 'do not miss' opportunity if you like southern style cooking.