Kentucky: KM-150

Submitted by joemcg on 6/1/2013

Where Purchased: My instructor

Year Purchased: 2013
Price Paid: 220 ($US)

Sound

Great sound, decent sustain

Sound Rating: 9

Setup

Instructor had to adjust the nut slightly

Setup Rating: 9

Appearance

Beautiful!

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

It does.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

Customer Service: not rated

Components

Components Rating: not rated

Overall Comments

What a great starter mandolin. Not much more than the cheapies and has a solid top, back and sides.

Overall Rating: 9

Kentucky: KM-805

Submitted by joemcg on 6/1/2013

Where Purchased: Guitar Center

Year Purchased: 2013
Price Paid: 575 ($US)

Sound

There is a story on this mandolin. I had seen it at Guitar Center at a close out price, but it was a busy weekend day and the sales force was very busy. I went back when they opened Monday morning figuring there wouldn't be a crowd and I could spend as much time as I liked with the instrument.
When I played it, the first string wouldn't do more than buzz. I knew that there had to be an issue. Under close examination I could see that the bridge was cracked. I figured that was a cheap fix, and if that didn't work it could always be. Returned to Saga under warranty for repair, so I bought it.
$30 later for a replacement. Bridge and new strings it sounds like a dream. It is as good as my KM-900, so I have a great instrument at a moderate price.

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

See comments above.

Setup Rating: 3

Appearance

Extremely although I prefer a light sunburst finish.

Appearance Rating: 8

Reliability

Now that the. Bridge is repaired, yes.

Reliability Rating: 8

Customer Service

Fine.

Customer Service: 8

Components

At some point I might install an Allen tailpiece. I'm not a big fan of the 2 piece units.

Components Rating: 7

Overall Comments

Love it!

Overall Rating: 9