Re: Weber Gallatin vs Eastman 504?
They really are apples and oranges with ff holes vs an oval hole. What do you want the mandolin to be played for? What's your skill level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced)? What kind of mandolin do you currently play?
People often say the one built in the US is always much better. I heard this with regards to a Breedlove KF I had compared to an Eastman, I liked them both just fine. The Weber may in fact be better in terms of fit and finish (in fact I would expect it to be) than the Eastman but, if your ears like the voice on the Eastman, there it is.
End of the day, they are very different instruments and comparing them is harder than just an east meets west comparison.
My advice has always been buy the best sounding and playing mandolin you can afford. If you're interested in a brand, get one in hand at least to see how it feels and looks as a representative of the brand.
My final note, I wouldn't consider the entry level Eastman and the entry Weber in the same purchase decision. I might pair off a used Collings MT and the Weber or a Kentucky vs the Eastman.
Jamie
There are two things to aim at in life: first, to get what you want; and, after that, to enjoy it. Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second. Logan Pearsall Smith, 1865 - 1946
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