Powerful A models in the 5K range
Hi Cafe,
I have done my share of scrolling, and checking post archives, but I just love the discussion. So here's the question.
I am looking into getting a second mandolin for stage use. It MUST be an A5, and MUST have a traditional (think Bill Monroe "Castle Studios") tone. Hard Core Blue Grass music. Chunky, and woody WITHOUT sacrificing the treble. Midrange is more important to me. A mandolin that sticks out in a band mix, rather than what it sounds like as a solo instrument. Not going to spend much over 5K.
Interested in your opinions.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Quote:
Originally Posted by
fernmando
I am looking into getting a second mandolin for stage use. It MUST be an A5, and MUST have a traditional (think Bill Monroe "Castle Studios") tone. Hard Core Blue Grass music. Chunky, and woody WITHOUT sacrificing the treble. Midrange is more important to me. A mandolin that sticks out in a band mix, rather than what it sounds like as a solo instrument. Not going to spend much over 5K.
I’d be looking for a Kimble A5 like the ones that have been in the classifieds lately:
https://www.mandolincafe.com/ads/172309#172309
https://www.mandolincafe.com/ads/172305#172305
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
STIVER
Lot's of excellent choices in this price range. While I have heard it said more than once that, " Stivers are more Bluegrass than Bluegrass itself", I am totally enamored with mine. I only play a smattering of grass and use it primarily for 40s / 50s country honky-tonk but also some rockabilly, folk, soft rock, and R & B.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Another vote for Kimble. They are very well suited for what you're wanting.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
I used to own the blonde Kimble that's for sale in the classifieds. This is a fantastic mandolin that I would buy back in a minute if I didn't already have two other Kimble mandolins (a F5 and a 2-point). Besides having the sound you want this mandolin also has one of the most beautiful one-piece backs you could ever hope for. It was a custom order and Will pulled out his best woods for this one.
Looks, balance, volume, feel, build quality... this is an A model that has it all. Hey wait a minute... maybe I will buy it back!
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Ruhland? I'm kind of keeping my eye out for one of Matts's.
Not in the same wheelhouse but a Model 1 Gil. If you have a chance to play one it is worth a try. Little over budget too.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Pittsburgh Bill
STIVER - I have heard it said more than once that, " Stivers are more Bluegrass than Bluegrass itself"
Mine sure is.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Kimble, Duff, or Stanley. I was going to say Ruhland as well, but the last A model that was listed was well above your budgeted number.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
I would add Givens to your list.
Kirk
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
All of the above, plus the Wienman boys are offering an A5 model now. I believe they are $4K. Might be the most underrated Bluegrass mandos on the market imho.
Girouards seem very nice as well, although I have only had the pleasure of playing one to date. It was the Loar A5 replica model that a fine gentleman owns. Sweet mandolin. Good hunting!
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Looks like there is a Skip Kelley and a nice looking Hinde at Carters Vintage in Nashville, not too far from you?
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Old Growth
Girouards seem very nice as well, although I have only had the pleasure of playing one to date. It was the Loar A5 replica model that a fine gentleman owns. Sweet mandolin. Good hunting!
While The Griffith is above the OP’s stated budget, I’d very much like to see and hear (that) one (there are only two I believe) in action.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Kimble? The only mandolin I’ve ever played that’s better than my Kimble A5 is my Kimble “F”.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
At your budget and location I would say a 3 hour trip to Nashville is recommended.
Kelley and Hinde (among others)at Carter Vintage and The Mandolin Store has an MT2 Varnish that might be incoming (says due in June). I don't know how Max voiced the used Girouard Concert that they have but it's an incredible amount of A5 mandolin for 3k. Worth an inquiry.
https://themandolinstore.com/product/used-girouard/
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
A Carlson period Gibson A5L , if you can find one.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
An Oliver Apitius A5 is sure worth consideration as well imo, totally spaced that out in an earlier post:)
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Quote:
Originally Posted by
UsuallyPickin
A Carlson period Gibson A5L , if you can find one.
Duhhhhh on me, man. I have one of those. Reckon I could try to find a second one.
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
Re: Powerful A models in the 5K range
If you could ever find one, get a Unicorn.