DVD-quality lessons (including tabs/sheet music) available for immediate viewing on any device.
Take your playing to the next level with the help of a local or online mandolin teacher.
Monthly newsletter includes free lessons, favorite member content, mandolin news and more.
Premier Sponsors
|
Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.mandohangout.com/archive/40365
EricJ131 - Posted - 01/26/2015: 08:31:19
I have been playing guitar for years now and am looking for something new. I've done some research and know that you'll get more for your buck with A-style mandos (Kentucky, Loar, Eastman seem to be the popular ones). Obviously the look of the F-style is better or a least appeals to me more, but I don't have a lot to spend <$250-300 really. I have the opportunity to buy a used Dean Bluegrass F-style Mandolin for $200. Has anyone heard of, bought, or even just played this mandolin in passing? I'm aware that it is not a solid body and that will sacrifice the sound. Please keep in mind, I've never played the mandolin before, and if I like it, I would obviously upgrade down the road. Seems like these are listed around 499.00, and on sale around $350.
Is $200 a deal? or would I be throwing money in the toilet?
I appreciate the advice.
-Eric
TSSN - Posted - 01/26/2015: 19:34:53
Hello Eric and welcome.
What you are looking at sells on Amazon new for $350. It's cousin, the Dean A style is reviewed rather well. So, from that perspective, $200 seems like a good deal.
I started out on a $85 laminate box that probably sounded about as bad as you'd think. However, I got it at a music store that had a great luthier on staff, and so it was set up as well as it was going to get. A few years later I traded up to a $450 model, and then again to a ~$1,000 model. Point is, I don't regret that initial $85 beater. I learned a lot from it, including what I wanted with my next mandolin.
If you can find someone close by to do a good set up for $40-50, I'd say you're all set... for now.
GlennK - Posted - 02/02/2015: 07:55:07
I just noticed this post. Eric, that was probably my mando ad you were talking about. It's a pretty nice mando, I just had the chance to upgrade to a loar 600 model at a good price. To be honest, I think I'm going to keep it for a traveling mando. What ever you do, you'll love the mando. I've played guitar for years and I'm just getting started on it but sure do love it.
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Privacy Consent (EU/GDPR Only)
Copyright 2026 Mando Hangout. All Rights Reserved.
