I'm not quite sure why you're obsessed with the Sycamore back and sides vs Maple. From the description I've seen at
https://www.folkmusician.com/product...-phantom-mms-4
The Chinese made version had carved solid top. And listed the back as solid (without the "carved" part) meaning that the back was likely pressed solid wood, which is commonly less desirable. However, Sycamore is not a common mandolin wood, so no telling how it affects the sound. I'm not finding a description of the sycamore back, so no idea if pressed or carved.
Additionally, Morgan Monroe is not known for particularly high quality mandolins. So while the look of the instrument might be enticing to you, I'm not sure either version is worth getting too excited about.
There are other black top mandolins, if that's what you like, that would likely be far superior. Keep an eye open for a used Kentucky KM-1000B. Or a new Eastman MD415-BK with carved mahogany back and sides, an carved spruce top with black finish, and case for $800.
Either of these would likely be much better sounding mandolins.
Or even better, this JBovier F5Z with solid carved Zebrawood back and sides and black solid carved spruce top for $850
https://mandolins.ecrater.com/p/2225...st-z-model-850
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