fixacr - Posted - 02/09/2011:  14:31:19

This is probably a recurring question, but what is considered a good mandolin for under $400? It will be for local jams and general personal amusement. I have no delusions of "making it big" so I'm not the least bit interested in professional models costing thousands. I previously owned a Johnson F-100 and definitely want something better.

I am a beginner at mandolin but know the basic chords. I have played guitar and electric bass for 40+ years, 5-string banjo about 6 years and studied music in college so it's not like I'm a beginner at music, just mandolin.

Edited by - fixacr on 02/09/2011 14:36:31

Woodman - Posted - 02/09/2011:  16:05:09

I'm also a beginner on mandolin with ~40 years of (unrewarding attempts at) guitar behind me. I started last September with a Rogue from Amazon to see if I'd really like mandolin. I do!

Got delivery on a Michael Kelly Monday and the improvement in playing ease and enjoyment already justify what I spent. It's a factory 2nd, so cost much less than expected, but there are also used mandos around with similar saving in most of the better instruments.

I'm not the first to say it, but I'm a believer now. Get the best you can afford. It's definitely worth it.

Edited by - Woodman on 02/09/2011 16:11:47

mandovoodoo - Posted - 02/09/2011:  16:57:32

Eastman MD305
"The Loar" LM220VS

Bump up a little, get into

"The Loar" LM520 F style
Kentucky KM505

This "bump up" process can go on forever.

mandoray - Posted - 02/10/2011:  08:03:31

I am a beginner and have been playing for about 6-7 months. Having not played an instrument before, I wanted to get something reasonable but I also didn't want something that I would need to upgrade within the first year. I went for a Kentucky km-150. You should be able to find one for under 250, maybe even under 200 at some places. I have been happy with it so far. Kentucky makes some other levels, and I am sure they have some in the price range you are talking about. I have heard good things about Eastman's also.

Ray

Folkmusician - Posted - 02/10/2011:  08:44:25

I am with Ray,

The KM-150 is a great mandolin for the price. This is what I always recommended for players needing to keep the price down.

As we go up in price, I pretty much agree with Stephen's list there. The LM-220 and 520 have set a new standard for their price points. If you get these from someone doing good setup work, there is not a better tone/dollar ratio right now.

JBovier - Posted - 02/21/2011:  11:26:22

Take a look at the new JBovier models for 2011:
jazzmando.com/new/archives/001481.shtml

Also keep an eye on the "JBovier Custom Shop" (mandolins.ecrater.com) for models and features not available at JBovier dealers.

fixacr - Posted - 02/22/2011:  10:10:24

Picked up a Morgan Monroe MMS-3W "Rocky Top" a few days ago for $200. Any comments?

TSSN - Posted - 02/22/2011:  14:55:03

Hey fixacr. I haven't had a chance to play one of those just yet.

I'm curious about others' comments, but I'd like to know what you think of it.

fixacr - Posted - 02/22/2011:  17:44:59

I thought it was a good price as the new ones I researched were going for $400+ so i took a chance. I like it so far, but the only thing I have to compare it to is a Johnson F-100 I sold last year. I guess you could say the Morgan Monroe is the best mandolin I've ever played.

Edited by - fixacr on 02/22/2011 17:48:58

Mandolin Ant - Posted - 02/23/2011:  04:45:55

quote:

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Originally posted by fixacr

Picked up a Morgan Monroe MMS-3W "Rocky Top" a few days ago for $200. Any comments?

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