Re: Mandolin recommendations?
The Big Muddy's a good idea, and also probably the only US-made instrument that's within your price point. You're talking "used," because the MW-0, cheapest model, is $655 list. Here's a link to the current catalog.
Other brands to look at are Kentucky, Eastman (their '300' series), and Loar. These are all imported, but they are good quality instruments, and their lower-end A-models are well within your price range. They feature all solid woods, and, in many cases, hand carving. (Check the specs carefully to make sure you're getting "solid," not "select," wood, and that the top and back are carved.)
There are also budget lines, such as Rover, that have decent-quality solid-wood instruments well under $600.
As in all cases, proper set-up is crucial. Mandolins need more expert set-up than guitars, because the bridge is movable and height-adjustable. Some dealers offer shop set-ups, many on-line volume sellers don't. I'm prejudiced toward "buy local," but realize that's not always an option.
Let us know how the search goes...
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
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