The Loar: The Loar LM-590 MS

Submitted by RickJohnson on 11/21/2014

Where Purchased: Homestead Pickin' Parlor

Year Purchased: 2014
Price Paid: 650.00 ($US)

Sound

Very nice rich sound, on all strings. As a brand new mandolin with almost no hours played, I am suprised how bright it sounds right out of the gate.

Sound Rating: 9

Setup

Setup by the Homestead Pickin' Parlor a day before my purchase, and could not have asked for more.

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

Workmanship was done as perfect as I would expect. The finish "Tobacco Sunburst" is very pretty. Top/back/sides are not glossy, maybe it could be called "satin". Which is good for my eyes (I hate glossy).

Appearance Rating: 9

Reliability

Don't know if I would call the finish thin, but it's sure not thick. Since I don't play professionally (and take care of my instrument) I think this mandolin will look good for many years to go. I

Reliability Rating: 9

Customer Service

Did not work with "The Loar". My instrument was ordered by Homestead Pickin' Parlor for me after "we" talked about it. So, I am going to rate Homestead Pickin' Parlor.

Customer Service: 10

Components

Came with Grover tuning machines with pearloid buttons. Seems nicely fitted on the head, and at this time, easy to use. Tailpiece fitted nice but tight, when it's time to change strings it may take some pratice to slide it out easier. The Compensated Adjustable Ebony bridge seems to fit perfectly.

Components Rating: 9

Overall Comments

The price I mentioned above includes the setup, with a case (& taxes) the price was $800.00. I ordered the Loar LM-590 because it does not have the fretboard extension. I could not be more pleased. Sliding up and down the neck, fingering on the frets, weight of the mandolin itself, the Loar LM-590 is a dream to play.

Overall Rating: 9