Suggest Electric / Acoustic Mandolin Columbus Ohio

[rocketfish]

I'm trying to purchase my first Mandolin with a budget of $1000 or less. There are not many places near Columbus, Ohio to try a variety of Mandolins (Guitar Center), so I'm trying to really narrow down my list before driving to other cities.

• I'll be playing plugged in with an Irish band but also like the acoustic sound
• Sound quality is important to me. Ideally, bright without being tinny.
• Prefer F-style, but could easily go with A

I received a recommendation for Michael Kelly Dragonfly Electric, but subsequently read that MK quality is not consistent. Is that still the case? Heard good things about Eastman and Kentucky.

What would you recommend?

[lenf12]

Godin A8 which does an admirable job of sounding like a loud acoustic mandolin.

Len B.
Clearwater, FL

[rocketfish]

Thanks for the suggestion @lenf2.

I should add that I want to use the mandolin unplugged as an acoustic, so solid-body electric may not work.

[pops1]

I would say pick a mandolin that you like the sound of and have a K&K pickup put in. You will also need a preamp unless you have a hiZ input on the P.A. or amp you are using.

[Ranger Bob]

If you could stretch your budget a bit one of the Rigel A’s would be right up your Irish alley.

[Pittsburgh Bill]

I would say pick a mandolin that you like the sound of and have a K&K pickup put in. You will also need a preamp unless you have a hiZ input on the P.A. or amp you are using.

I have two with K & K Twins and almost always choose to mic unless convenience is paramount. As always, just my humble opinion.

[colorado_al]

If you're playing Irish music plugged in and acoustic, I'd suggest an oval hole mandolin. If you like the F body style, you're looking at considerably more money, for no difference in sound. But if that is what you're after, I'd check out the Eastman MD614.
Here's a used one in your price range:
https://reverb.com/item/12165325-eas...-and-hard-case

If it were me looking for an oval hole, I would go for this Kentucky KM-270 for $317 with coupon code 8off89
https://www.musiciansfriend.com/folk...19371000001000
and add a JJB pickup for $40
http://www.jjb-electronics.com/prestige-220.html

and a case for $40
https://www.musiciansfriend.com/acce...44411000000000

Be prepared for doing your own setup, since it comes from Musicians friend

[pheffernan]

If I were playing Irish music on a $1000 budget, I'd look for a player's grade Gibson oval like this one:

https://www.mandolincafe.com/ads/127121#127121

A pickup can always be added as money allows and situations require.

[rocketfish]

Thank you for the links and specific advice. I'll give those ideas consideration.

[allenhopkins]

Eastman MD605 has a built-in K&K and costs less than your budget.

It's not an oval-hole, which is what many Celtic mandolinists play, but Eastman instruments generally get good press here.