Purchasing a Back-Up Mandolin

Subject: 2nd mandolin purchase
Date: Wed, 17 Mar 2004 23:07:51 -0500

I'm looking for an inexpensive 2nd mandolin. MK, MM & Epiphone 50 come to mind. I still dont have faith in the Kentucky since the move to China. Any thoughts which might be the better route ? Since I already have a black one, I would like to have a traditional look (yellowish sunburst color ) Obviously sound & playability come in as important. Most bang for the buck ?

Nate

Greetings Nate,

Both the Morgan Monroe or the Michael Kelly would be good choices...the Kentucky is coming around and has improved since the move (they're still a great value since their prices dropped substantially with the move to China)

The questions you might ask yourself before purchasing a second mandolin:

1. What style of music am I hoping to achieve with my 2nd or back-up mando?
2. Am I looking for an F-style or A-style?
3. Do I want something that is less expensive and one that I won't worry about playing by a campfire? (there are some expensive MM's and MK's)
4. Are there other features that I'm looking for that would set it apart? (Such as the MMS-2 offers sycamore back and sides which give it a different voicing)
5. Am I looking for further portability in weight and size? (such as the Weber Sweet Pea would offer)
Put the answers on a scale...to hopefully narrow down your choice for the ideal 2nd mandolin...
Let me know how I might assist you further in narrowing down your perfect 2nd mandolin...

Mickey