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Thread: Again: Beginner mandolin

  1. #1

    Default Again: Beginner mandolin

    Hi there,
    I am currently looking for a new beginner archtop mandolin.
    I already have a nice but rather worn down bowlback (needs a refret and some leveling of the fretboard).

    The choice ist down to a Kentucky KM150 built probably 2009 for 250€ used, an Epiphone MM50 Form about the same (also built in 2009).
    In the same range would be a The Loar LM110 or LM320 (250€ vs 300€).

    The Eastmans are a lot more expensive here in Germany (MD305 for 599€ and MD315 for 850€) and almost never show up used.

    From what I read the Kentucky would be the was to go...

    (sorry, my German autocorrect tries to mess up my english )

  2. #2
    Quietly Making Noise Dave Greenspoon's Avatar
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    May 2003
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    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    Given that list, IMO you're correct the Kentucky is the better option "on paper". As always, let your ears and hands decide!
    Axes: Eastman MD-515 & El Rey; Eastwood S Mandola
    Amps: Fishman Loudbox 100; Rivera Clubster Royale Recording Head & R212 cab; Laney Cub 10

  3. #3
    Registered User
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    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    Agree with Dave. If buying blind, I would go with the Kentucky.
    Mitch Russell

  4. #4

    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    To spice it up a little:
    I could also go for a KM606 (~600€) or a used km630 (500€). What so you think about these?
    I like the rough finish on the 606, but ist ist more than twice the Money worth?

  5. #5

    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    I would go with Afanti A5

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yODWgWmh78Y

    New is around $420

  6. #6

    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    Quote Originally Posted by Dalmatino View Post
    I would go with Afanti A5

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yODWgWmh78Y

    New is around $420
    Sorry, but I can't find a retailer for these in Germany...

  7. #7

    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    I tried a Loar lower end F model at my local and was unimpressed, tonally dead imo. It looked cool though. Will you have to order it? If you have a place you can try some out, it would definitely be worth a trip, you might be surprised what you end up with.

  8. #8

    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    You can order them online from Alibaba. Free delivery to Germany.

    - - - Updated - - -

    Quote Originally Posted by UUGA View Post
    Sorry, but I can't find a retailer for these in Germany...
    Default Re: Again: Beginner mandolin

    You can order them online from Alibaba. Free delivery to Germany

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