Re: Sawchyn for a newb?
Originally Posted by
guavajam
Since this is a used instrument are there any things you think I keep an eye out for before purchasing it?
The instrument looks pretty new from the pictures I’ve seen but besides that I don’t really know any of the technicalities.
Granted I will take it to a luthier to have it set up.
I started on a similar flattop in a Mid-Missouri M0 because for comparable money to a factory import I could afford a mandolin built in a small shop domestically. And even after sampling a number of others — a Gypsy Vagabond, a Flatiron 1N, and two Redline Travelers — I still have a Poe Scout pancake much like the Sawchyn Beavertail. They sound great and are fun to play, especially on the types of folk music that interest you.
When examining a used instrument, I wouldn’t assume that it would need a setup if the current owner has sensibly maintained it since it left Peter’s bench. I’d look at the neck to make sure that it is straight without any twists, playing clean up the fretboard without any buzzes. I’d inspect the body for evidence of any damage or repairs, such as cracks from inadequate humidification or lacquer crazing. And I’d play it for a bit to determine if it was comfortable to my left hand and pleasing to my ear. But mainly, I’d go in expecting it to look good, play well, and sound great, and if it did, it would be making the three hour return journey home with me!
1924 Gibson A Snakehead
2005 National RM-1
2007 Hester A5
2009 Passernig A5
2015 Black A2-z
2010 Black GBOM
2017 Poe Scout
2014 Smart F-Style Mandola
2018 Vessel TM5
2019 Hogan F5
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