Kentucky KM-500S vs KM180S

[jazzman13]

Hi all,
Just wondering about the differences between two Kentuckys I'm looking at getting for some bluegrass playing at the moment: KM-500S and KM-180S.
Both are Japanese made early 80's instruments.
I have an idea from what I've read that the 500S is the top of the line A style model? Correct me if I'm wrong.
I had a chance to play the 180S today and it had a great sound - really warm and rich (in comparison to other mandos I've played).
I won't get to play the 500S because it's in America and I'm in Australia....

So... can anyone give me a bit of guidance, info (perhaps some approximate values of the instruments) and personal opinions on the sound of each one?
Thanks!

[UkuleleAl]

I personally would go with the 500s, it looks better than the 180s. And yes the 500s was near the top of the line. But get it set up definately...

-Alex

[UkuleleAl]

Oh god, I just realised how old this post is