Hi Guys
Im new to this forum would like to ask your advice.
I am really interested in taking up the Mandolin.
I have read many threads on this forum and have picked up, among a few other things, that even great mandolins are terrible if not set up correctly, generally solid wood is much better than laminate, A-style is better value for money for a learner than F-style, and that Kentucky are probably the best choice for a entry level mandolin.
The only problem I have is that I live in South Africa and thus am very limited in my choice for an instrument. (no1 here even knows what Kentucky is, let alone are willing to get one for me)
So I've narrowed down my options to 2 choices, the Fender FM-53s and the Ibanez M522s, these being the only 2 available in my price range that have solid spruce tops, the only other instruments available being plywood Corts and Johnson Savannas.
Another problem is that no matter which mandolin I get, the stores will have to order it specifically for me, and there is no return policy for mere unhappyness, only warranties for factory faults.
Buying from abroad and importing myself is also unfortunately not an option.
I would love to hear from anyone who has had any experience with these 2 Mandolins or Brands.
There is a video on Youtube of the Fender, the guy mentions that it won some kind of award in 2011 (Im not sure if Im allowed to post the link, if I am, I will), I have also seen in one of these threads that some1 had a bad run in with things breaking off his Ibanez after a few months. So that might already be swinging my vote into the direction of the Fender, unless someone can convince me differently.
Sorry for the unnecessarily long post.
Thanx in advanced.
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