Weber Diamondback

[9lbShellhamer]

I'm interested in the Weber Diamondback.

Has it changed in the past few years? I noticed it now costs $5999 but a few years ago, like in the video posted by the mandolin store, it used to cost $3800.

Any info on old vs new Diamondbacks?

Thanks

[George R. Lane]

Here is a brand new one for $3,800.

http://www.mandolincafe.com/ads/91974#91974

[9lbShellhamer]

Yeah. I saw that one posted a few months ago, and now it's listed again. I really would love to play it first!

[Doc Ivory]

Hey George!
I see you have a Weber as your profile pic, which one is it?
How has your experience been with Weber products and tone?

-Jim

[George R. Lane]

Doc,
It is a Yellowstone from 2010. This is a very special Yellowstone that Bruce and Brett Byers built for me. I live about 60 miles from the old Weber shop in Logan, Mt. I used to be a photographer for my hometown newspaper for 30 years and I did a story when they started building archtop guitars. While doing the story I became good friends with both Bruce and Brett. I have bought three mandolins since 2007, a Gallatin, a Vintage A oval, and my Yellowstone. Each time I was able to spend time with Bruce picking out the woods and finish details. When Bruce told me he was thinking of selling the business, I decided to order my Isabella (Yellowstone). Long story short, I picked out the woods (engleman and quilted maple), Bruce and Brett told me they would do some upgrades for me like gold hardware and the beautiful burst Brett did. They even used quilted maple for the headstock overlay. This is a very special instrument for me, I even had the entire shop sing a label for me (it is on the treble side). As far as the quality of their instruments they are some of the best out there and they have great customer service (as has been reported here many times). I don't play Bluegrass so I asked for a warmer tone, I like waltzes and Beatles music, hence the engleman top. They can make a killer Bluegrass machine, you just have order it that way. Sorry about the long response, I am a very big fan of their instruments and can proudly say they are good friends and great people.

[Doc Ivory]

WOW!!!
Never ever part with that instrument!!

I'm looking at the Weber Yellowstone or Bitterroot (depending on budget after Christmas...). The tone I hear from them suits me and I'm encouraged that you find the build quality excellent.

Great that you developed those friendships, the finish looks GREAT on the headstock!

[allenhopkins]

...I even had the entire shop sing a label for me (it is on the treble side)...

Surprising; I would have thought it would be more baritone...

[George R. Lane]

Thanks Doc,
Yes, Isabella with be with me for the rest of my life. The Bitteroot is a great mandolin, basically a Yellowstone without all the binding. You can customize any of their instruments, so the sky is the limit, according to your wallet. Good luck with your purchase. Please let me know what you are going to buy.

[Doc Ivory]

When ever you had a chance. I'd love to see a full length version of yours!
No rush..
-Doc

[George R. Lane]

Here you go.

[Doc Ivory]

I love the quilted back. Matter of fact, i love quilted tops on guitars as well.
Just a gorgeous instrument, the "burst" finish to the headstock is a really nice touch.

Thanks for posting sir.

[George R. Lane]

Anytime Doc.

[Brett Byers]

Here you go.

Hard to believe that was five years ago. Seems just like yesterday you were picking out that wood! I hope you're well George!

[George R. Lane]

Hi Brett,
Yeah time does fly by pretty fast. I am doing good, retirement is great. Everyone I shoe her to comments on the finish and I proudly tell them about you and Bruce decieding on what was best for me. And I tell you guys were right, she is a beautiful instrument to play and own.
Thanks

[Ivan Kelsall]

That's a super nice mandolin George. My own Weber "Fern" is now 8 years old & sounding terrific. I must say that i like the 'mellower' burst on the front of yours,mine comes across as a bit 'dark',but it's still nice & beautifully built,
Ivan

[George R. Lane]

Thanks Ivan,
And yes they did sign, not sing the label. The old fingers don't work as good as they use to.
It was Brett Byers suggestion to do that particular burst and he also suggested to do the headstock.