Petersen Octave

[Jim P.]

I have a chance to pick up a 2001 Petersen Octave mandolin L2 under $800. From what I've seen in the forum it looks like a good deal.

Any thoughts? All info appreciated.

Jim

[Steve-o]

That’s a great deal if it’s in good condition. I paid $975 for my Level 2 about 10 years ago. The tone, volume, and sustain are all decent, as well as the aesthetics. I play ITM on mine. The scale length is about 22.5 or 22.75, which gives it the aforementioned sound quality, but makes it more difficult for melody than the short scale OMs. PM me if you don’t want it, because I do! Mr. Petersen is no longer building these.

[Chuck Leyda]

That's a good deal. They are consistent quality instruments. Look great too. I don't think you can beat them for the price.

[jvkelly]

That seems an exceptionally good deal. I bought a year old near mint Level 3 (cedar top and koa back and sides - unusual combination for Mr. Petersen) from Elderly nine years ago for $1000. It’s a great instrument.

[Steve-o]

That seems an exceptionally good deal. I bought a year old near mint Level 3 (cedar top and koa back and sides - unusual combination for Mr. Petersen) from Elderly nine years ago for $1000. It’s a great instrument.

Hey jvk - My Level 2 also has a cedar top and koa back/sides (so maybe not that unusual?).

[Rob Meyer]

I likewise own a level 2 Petersen with a cedar and koa back and sides. Steve-o, I suspect that you are correct that they are not all that uncommon.

A level 2 for $800 is quite a bargain. I have been very happy with mine and use it for both backing and playing tunes. It has both good volume and a very full tone. It strikes a good balance between smaller bodied OMs and larger bouzoukis.

[Jim P.]

Thanks for all the comments, guys. I'll post some pix if/when I close the deal.

Jim

[Jim P.]

I pulled the trigger on that Petersen octave. Here's a couple of pix. I'm letting it get acclimatized to my place before trying anything with it. I'm used to my Gibson A and Breedlove A. I've never had an octave in hand before so the heft of this one surprised me. Also the 22.5 scale is somewhat daunting.

[DougC]

I pulled the trigger on that Petersen octave. Here's a couple of pix. I'm letting it get acclimatized to my place before trying anything with it. I'm used to my Gibson A and Breedlove A. I've never had an octave in hand before so the heft of this one surprised me. Also the 22.5 scale is somewhat daunting.

You won't be saying that in a few days! I'm sure you'll play it a lot and the more you play, the easier it gets. Congratulations