I searched older threads to see if I could find anything that was suited for me. I didn't see it right off and I apologize if this topic has been done to death.
I played piano, cello, and bass (upright and fretless electric). It has been a long time and I have always been intrigued by mandolins. I also like the fact it's somewhat portable vs. being more of a production to idly play it. I want one so I am going to get one. I can read music but not guitar type music, I played classical. I was in a bluegrass band briefly many years ago but that was playing bass so unless I was doing something creative, I generally played one string at a time. I am completely ok with teaching myself what I need to know.
And in that, I need an instrument. I like F holes, am not so much of a fan of the round hole (though I suppose all have sound posts?) and I think I have expensive taste just in what I think looks pretty. I know quality is important - cheap/cheaply made instruments can be torture to play. I also know that since I am new and since I have NO idea how far I will go with this, I'd like to stay under $500 if possible.
With that then, where do I look and what do I look for? I've been looking into used and then cross referencing reviews but I figured you all would know better. Good quality wood and build is important. Pretty is desired but I guess I'd take quality over pretty. Am not so much of a teardrop kind of person - I like the ones that look more classical. I would MUCH rather buy a decent non-vintage used instrument than a new not-so-decent one.
Thank you for any and all advice
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