It could just be the cost of figured wood has guided some choices. My KM950 isn't new, but it has enough figure. You can pay more for mandolins that...
I've learned a lot here and I really appreciate all the responses. Maybe I'm not so cranky after all. Thank you to everyone (except for mr. condino)....
I don't really think anything has changed. Kentucky's advertisements have touted "highly figured" wood as far back as I've seen. Those Japanese built...
Really interesting take on the tune, Simon. It's not exactly a slow air, but it is an air nevertheless, with repeated rubato and no sense of a dance...
I started with this 1920 Martin style A, that actually sat around mostly unplayed for many years. Still have it. I'm trying to get my wife interested...