Second Mandolin?

[f5joe]

Is there a difference in sound between F-style and A-style ?

For me, I tend to hear some minor differences. Between the Eastmans that I've recommended, I don't hear a lot of difference. It depends upon what you're after. Admittedly, as a bluegrass type, the F style appeals to me visually.

[allenhopkins]

Is there a difference in sound between F-style and A-style ?

There are acoustic differences between any two mandolins. The scroll and points that define the F-model are, in most cases, solid wood "outcroppings" from the mandolin's rims, with limited vibratory or resonant capacity. They may in some minor way influence the top's vibrations -- adding overall mass, stiffening the rims, whatever.

So those who do hear "minor differences" would need to establish that these differences were systematically related to the differences in design, and not just the type of variance you'd find among any group of similar instruments. Most of us haven't had the chance to listen to a couple dozen F-model and A-model instruments, identically strung and picked, from the same manufacturer and of uniform construction (design, wood, finish) within each model. Someone working at, say, the Eastman or Kentucky manufacturing facility, would have had this kind of experience.

Esthetically, the F-model silhouette has captured the field for most bluegrass players, for a number of reasons having as much to do with history, and the instruments played by influential musicians, as they have to do with sound quality. As a rule, more "bang for the buck" from an A-model than an F-model of the same price, since carving the F-model's scroll and points adds a significant amount of production effort, without a corresponding improvement in acoustic quality.

Also, "difference" doesn't necessarily mean "better" (or "worse), just "different." The most difference-making variants, IMHO, are oval soundhole vs. f-holes, carved vs. heat-pressed top, and laminated vs. solid-wood construction. I'd zero in on those as opposed to F-model vs. A-model.

[jaycat]

Is there a difference in sound between F-style and A-style ?

Yes. If you get an A-style, you'll hear some change jangling around in your pocket. Get an F-style and you'll have to carry a nickel and a nail.

[EdHanrahan]

... If you get an A-style, you'll hear some change jangling around in your pocket.

The A-style sound difference that I was thinking: The wailing siren of the Bluegrass Police.

[mandroid]

There are acoustic differences between any two mandolins.

This is true of 2 identical appearing Mandolins from the same brand-company , and model, as well ..

because its natural wood and made by a person, Or assembly line of several individuals ..

[bigskygirl]

The Eastman is a great mandolin and a great value esp. used. I love mine and get compliments and offers on it quite frequently. Both the 305 and 315 sound great and I like the matte finish....

however......

Mike Barber and renoyd, I too would love to see some pics of the rubbed out finish, I'll bet they both look great!

[Mike Arakelian]

Is there a difference in sound between F-style and A-style ?

Most will agree that there is no sound difference between an A-style and an F-style mandolin. The difference is in appearance.

[darrylicshon]

All mandolins sound different and all mine sound different doesnt matter the shape /style it all has to do with the wood

[bigskygirl]

There's a 305 in the classifieds with some upgrades and a 48 hour return option.