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Thread: Trying to make a modest leap...

  1. #1

    Default Trying to make a modest leap...

    I've been playing for almost two years, using a $180 Old Hickory FC100. While an ok starter mandolin, I've finally reached the level where the instrument is holding me back - plus I regularly hear (and feel) its inadequacies. Need to move up, but am limited to $1000ish range.
    'Been driving up and down I-5 looking at Eastmans and Loars (about all that's available). What I'm noticing on various web clips are the Kentucky KM1000 and Kentucky KM756. Both seem like a logical transition up... just wish I could play one.
    So am seeking a perception check: clearly I'm done with the Hickory, but when I play Eastmans and Loars I just don't see the quality leap I expect going from $180 to $1000. Are the two Kentucky models more what a "former novice, current ambitious learner" would look for?
    I play some covers, but a lot of original stuff... somewhere between bluegrass and "americana"... whatever that means at this point.
    Yes, I know the KM1000 is far over $1000... hence the KM756.

    thanks...

  2. #2
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    As you get closer to the $1000 range, the Eastmans and Loars do get better in quality, I can't say the same for the Kentucky or Washburns.
    My first "upgrade" was to an $800 Washburn, but alas I soon found that mando wanting in tone and volume.
    Did you try Jbovier? I recently played one at a jam that I was very impressed with.
    if you see a used Rigel (not the knock off)- even the A models - I always thought those were great mandos.

    having limited exposure before you purchase is always challenging, so if you need a return policy, best going with a dealer or store, otherwise there are a lot of great used mandos out there for well under 1K.
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  4. #3
    Purveyor of Sunshine sgarrity's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    If you watch the classifieds here you should be able to get a used Kentucky KM-1000 for around $1,000. They're nice mandolins.

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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    You could drive up the 5 to my hood and go to Dusty strings, but I think that's not waht you're talking about.

    As a Kentucky 900 owner that upgraded to .080/.043 size frets, I would recommend talking to Mandolin store Phoenix or Folkmusician about 950's and 1050's used models (I think they would take it an instrument back if you decided the sound/playability wasn't for you but ask about that).
    Kentucky km900
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  7. #5

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    For $1000 or $1200 you could probably buy a silver angel and be done with it.
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    “The music is not in the notes, but in the silence between.” ― Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

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  9. #6
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    First, welcome to the cafe. I'm with you on the quality leap thing. I have noticed that as I improve, I can make an eastman sound better than I used to, if you know what I mean.

    I see many good used ones here on the classifieds for that price:
    Older Breedlove
    Silverangel
    Maybe a Flatiron or an older Kentucky?

    And if you would indulge me, a Morris A-style will change your life.

  10. #7
    Purveyor of Sunshine sgarrity's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    See classifieds now!

  11. #8

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    $1200 and a little patience will get you a Silverangel A or a Weber Galatin from the classifieds. This is sure to get you what you want to hear.

    If you have to stick to 1k budget, I agree, jump to the classifieds now, an don't think about it. A good 80% of your ideal is there to be had.
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  13. #9
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    If you happen onto a used Kentucky KM805 (they are not made new anymore AFAIK,) they are an improvement, I got mine for $600. But I know what you are saying about expecting a significant improvement between $180 and $1000. Good luck in your hunt.

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    Chu Dat Frawg Eric C.'s Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...


  16. #11
    Registered User Mark Seale's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    My personal preference puts the Kentucky 900 and 1000 line well ahead of any of the Eastman and The Loar mandolins I've played. I recently had (briefly) a superb KM900 that was a much better mandolin than the price would suggest. I think I paid $750 out of these classifieds for it. I do think the 900 and 1000 lines are a step up from the lower levels even amongst Kentucky branded mandolins.

  17. #12
    My Florida is scooped pheffernan's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    If you keep your eyes on the classifieds, you can occasionally find a nice domestic A5 in that price range. A few weeks ago, there was a Gibson A9 listed. This week, a Summit A5 was available very briefly. Tonight, there is a Flatiron Performer:

    https://www.mandolincafe.com/ads/142521#142521
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  19. #13

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    Many thanks. Will look into Jbovier. And yes, living 120+miles from the nearest large city really limits the hands-on.

    Quote Originally Posted by tmsweeney View Post
    As you get closer to the $1000 range, the Eastmans and Loars do get better in quality, I can't say the same for the Kentucky or Washburns.
    My first "upgrade" was to an $800 Washburn, but alas I soon found that mando wanting in tone and volume.
    Did you try Jbovier? I recently played one at a jam that I was very impressed with.
    if you see a used Rigel (not the knock off)- even the A models - I always thought those were great mandos.

    having limited exposure before you purchase is always challenging, so if you need a return policy, best going with a dealer or store, otherwise there are a lot of great used mandos out there for well under 1K.

  20. #14

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    Outstanding - thanks for the recommendations. Appreciated

    Quote Originally Posted by gtani7 View Post
    You could drive up the 5 to my hood and go to Dusty strings, but I think that's not waht you're talking about.

    As a Kentucky 900 owner that upgraded to .080/.043 size frets, I would recommend talking to Mandolin store Phoenix or Folkmusician about 950's and 1050's used models (I think they would take it an instrument back if you decided the sound/playability wasn't for you but ask about that).

  21. #15

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    ha, ok, I'm up to a life changing mandolin - thanks !

    - - - Updated - - -

    Whoa! Thank you!

  22. #16

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    Ok - thanks. Appreciate it.

  23. #17

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    I'm gonna say going from a $150ish instrument to a $1kish instrument is a big leap. You won't be disappointed if you get a good one, and that's what the folks are here to help with. :-)

    Also, curious what inadequacies you are feeling. Playability can be had on almost any instument with proper setup.

    What I am getting at is if you get a new instrument and there are still things holding you back, they likely can be fixed. I am a gear-head in that regard (not the only one of course), and freely refret to different fret sizes, recut nuts to adjust action and string spacing, and adjust bridges until I get the feel I want, not to mention the more usual string and pick choices.

    I guess I am saying you can pick an instrument primarily for it's sound, almost anything else can be fixed, although it is nice to get close to what you want to start with.
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  24. #18
    Registered User Mike Arakelian's Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    Absolutely check the classifieds right NOW. There is a Kentucky 1000 and a Flatiron Performer A both for $950 (nfi). Both are excellent mandolins spot on your budget. Good luck.
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  25. #19
    Registered User Eric F.'s Avatar
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    Dude/Dudette: Get the Flatiron already. The Kentucky is probably a very nice instrument as well, but I don't think you can wrong with a Flatiron and you should be able to resell it easily if you want.

  26. #20

    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    A few years ago, I bought a Kentucky KM-1000 used for $800, and it has been a good one.

  27. #21
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    Default Re: Trying to make a modest leap...

    I agree with a lot of the comments - Flat Iron Performer over Kentucky or Eastman or Loar.
    Stormy Morning Orchestra

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    "Mean Old Timer, He's got grey hair, Mean Old Timer he just don't care
    Got no compassion, thinks its a sin
    All he does is sit around an play the Mandolin"

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