Just like wine the Merlot MTO opened up, I think.

[red7flag]

I would like to do a little follow up on my new Collings "Merlot MTO". I have had this Colling MTO for close to two months. When it arrived, I wondered if it would open up like some of my other instruments. I have been playing this instrument almost exclusively for most of that time in conjunction with getting a Banjo Ben Clark membership. I have been working on expanding my fiddle tune repertoire. About a week ago, I noticed the the notes both bass and treble appear more full, bass especially. I know part of this is improved technique as I am really focusing on a more reserved right hand which the the MTO responds to. That said, however, the instrument sounds more full in all regards. It seems to have opened up. I know this is heresy to some, but I think it has. My playing, while improved has not improved as much as the MTO. Also it sounds better playing open strings. No playing involved there. Just thought I would throw this out.

[JeffD]

[McIrish]

For the longest time I thought the whole "opening up" thing was a myth. But, I have noticed it on a few of my instruments. It might be that my playing improved but it might also be that the whole instrument is working better now with all it's various parts. It's settled in and sounds more airy and less tight and brittle. Two month is a pretty short time for that to really happen, but I suppose if you are playing it a lot, it will change.
Either way, congratulations!

[red7flag]

Mc, I agree with your sense. I really was not expecting and change that quickly, and certainly not to the extent that it showed. I have been playing the MTO a great deal for the two months, every day for at least two hours, some days much more. One aspect that I did not mention in the OP was the much greater sustain, which I really did not expect, but really appreciate for I use sustain instead of tremolo as a technique. I guess that is why I have gravitated to oval holes over the past 5 years or so.

[red7flag]

A fellow mandolin player (he plays bass and rhythm guitar on both my CDs) played the MTO the day after it arrived from Music Emporium. Last week he played it for the first time since and mentioned how much louder and richer the tone was. This comment was not solicited. I forgot to mention this in the previous post. Brain cramp.

[lenf12]

Imagine how much better it will be in 6 months, a year, 5 years, etc. Enjoy the experience!! btw - I'm loving the wine reference as I sit here with a very drinkable pinot noir. How about a picture or two?

Len B.
Clearwater, FL

[red7flag]

I posted pictures when I first received it. Here is the link:
http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/sh...rlow-quot-MT-O