I’m looking into upgrading my Kentucky KM-150 which I already bought based only on references. It was my first mandolin and saw it as a student instrument, but also a test, since I didn’t know if would enjoy playing.
My concern with the upgrade is that I live in Spain and I basically can’t go to a store and play a few better mandolins and decide. There are none. Again I can only search information but not feel the instrument I will buy.
My option initially was a Kentucky KM-1000 but the store where I could buy it from told me that it’s €2200 and I perhaps I should consider paying the extra bucks and get a Northfield S series (the difference in price is not small, €1300 but could also be worth if I don’t want to change mandolin in many many years). This store is very professional boutique and whatever my option is I know I will receive the instrument with a proper setup.
Setup concerns me when it comes to cheaper options like an Eastman 515 bought from Thomann or the likes. I don’t know what I will get… and I’m still paying significant money.
So this is the dilemma of someone who wants to get a better mandolin but has no options to play and feel.
PS: all in all I’m kind of leaning on the Northfield but it’s also a lot of money and feels like buying a very expensive car after just having experience with a humble one.
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