I am a guitar player and I've recently become interested in Ukulele and Mandolin. I picked up a used Gretsch New Yorker Deluxe which was OK. I dig that it has a pickup. Although it plays and sounds Ok, it is just OK. Not much mojo happening.
Feeling my interest in the mandolin growing, I decided to invest in a higher quality instrument and picked up a Northfield Calhoun. It really is a night and day difference.
The Calhoun is full of mojo and I find myself reaching for it constantly. It is really loud, and chimes and rings beautifully. Compared to the Gretsch, the Gretsch sounds boxy and compressed and a bit toy-like, where the Calhoun feels absolutely alive. Tons of magic in this mandolin. The Calhoun has really inspired my interest in learning and improving my skills. The Gretsch might make an open mic or something of that sort due to the pickup, but other than that, it comes up short in every way.
Of course, the Calhoun cost four times the price of the Gretsch. But the investment of $1000 was so worth it. I love that it's made in America as well, a rarity in any instrument in a sub $1000 price range! Seriously, I have fallen head over heels in love with the Calhoun!
Bookmarks