Fred Oster's shop in Philly has a wall full of vintage instruments, Gibsons, Martins, some other odds and ends. I visited a year ago and wouldn't hesitate to use him or Mandolin Brohters in Staten Island as they are both close enough to try instruments before purchasing (pretty much universally recommended to try before buy with vintage stuff). Those older Martins have a nice sound, different but cool from Gibson's, too.
If you can't test drive instruments, the dealers suggested above are reputable but you should invest a fair bit of time in talking with them so they know what you are looking for so you don't get dissapointed. Understand what you want to play and sound like. Be very clear about how important cosmetics are for it as well. A more beat up looking mando may sound as good or better or worse than a clean one. If you're really after a good player, and not investing a beat up one will get more tone per dollar.
Good luck.
Jamie
There are two things to aim at in life: first, to get what you want; and, after that, to enjoy it. Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second. Logan Pearsall Smith, 1865 - 1946
+ Give Blood, Save a Life +
Bookmarks