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Thread: New to me AL Smart F5

  1. #1
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    Default New to me AL Smart F5

    I purchased this 2014 A.L. Smart beauty from Greg Boyd's House of Fine instruments a few weeks ago. It has an Engleman top and varnish finish. I'm still getting used to it, especially the shape as this is my first F5. So far it is a wonderful instrument. Very nicely balanced with a clear ringing tone as well as a nice woodiness and growl to the chop. My favorite part are the high notes. They just seem to sing on this mandolin. So far this mandolin has quenched my MAS. Anyway here is a video clip of it in action. Enjoy!

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  3. #2

    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5

    Congrats. Beautiful thick tone everywhere. Sounds like a keeper!
    2010 Heiden A5, 2020 Pomeroy oval A, 2013 Kentucky KM1000 F5, 2012 Girouard A Mandola w ff holes, 2001 Old Wave A oval octave
    http://HillbillyChamberMusic.bandcamp.com
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  5. #3
    Registered User Mark Seale's Avatar
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    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5

    That's a wonderful sounding instrument, even over laptop speakers. I'm a big fan of Lawrence Smart's instruments, particularly his mandolas. Enjoy the new mando!

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    Registered User usqebach's Avatar
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    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5

    Wow!! I'm simply stunned with the clarity, volume and tone of that instrument.

    Would have to be in the top 3 mandolins I've heard, and I've heard a bunch!

    Question; are you hearing all of that from your playing position, or is there a significant advantage for the mic which is placed directly in front of the sound holes?
    Jim Sims

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    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5

    Quote Originally Posted by usqebach View Post
    Wow!! I'm simply stunned with the clarity, volume and tone of that instrument.

    Would have to be in the top 3 mandolins I've heard, and I've heard a bunch!

    Question; are you hearing all of that from your playing position, or is there a significant advantage for the mic which is placed directly in front of the sound holes?
    I hear most of that. Some Mandolins sound much more loud out front. This mandolin provides great feedback for the player too. It is really a fantastic mandolin. It is the first mandolin I’ve owned that really has it all. Powerful low end, clear projecting mids and sparkling high notes.

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    trevor 

  11. #6
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    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5



    Here’s another video of the Smart Mandolin. A little more jazzy for comparison.

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  13. #7
    Expert on my own opinion Bogle's Avatar
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    Default Re: New to me AL Smart F5

    Such a rich sound, and some great playing too!

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