Re: Information on Fender Mandocasters
Originally Posted by
Jordan S.
Hi folks! I thought I might pick up a Fender Mandocaster for a little variety, and I'm asking for any input you might have for models or years to look for (or look out for!). Does anyone have any information on these instruments and which are the more desirable models or years? Anything to consider while shopping?
Thanks!
Well…the 4-string Mando-strats from late 50s/early 60s go for a couple of grand, give or take. I’ve never played one but they look virtually identical to the ones that came out about ten years ago, we’re made in Indonesia or Malaysia, and cost about $300 brand new. I got one of the letter and had fun with it for a couple of years. The 4-string is an odd duck. They can be a lot of fun to rip out the tunes on with whatever effects you fancy, great fun for Ye Olde Celtic Folk-Rock. But many Mando players find them rather un-mandoly.
The reissue ones have increased in value some because they were dirt cheap, but decent, and not made for long. The most obvious weakness is that they often have a weak-sounding e-string, so a pickup upgrade is common.
Having had that experience, I’d be more interested in a solid 8-string version, those Fenders exist but seem relatively rare.
2009 Eastman 505
2011 Collings MTO GT
2008 Toyota Sienna
2018 Sawchyn mandola
Mandoline or Mandolin: Similar to the lute, but much less artistically valuable....for people who wish to play simple music without much trouble —The Oxford Companion to Music
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