Just bought a Breedlove Crossover OF VS ... wasn't at all what I wanted when I went in....
I was SO wanting to order an Eastman MD605, but as per the advice given out so often here, decided to let my ears and fingers make the decision.
I tried a few of the Eastman range a few years ago, just before I bought my Buchanan (yeah, I know 'apples and oranges'), but found them not that easy to play fluently (compared to my Kentucky KM180s, and the other mandolins on display).
There are some good deals on MD605s at the moment, and I hoped that my previous experience was just down to my having poor technique then, and that this time would be different... built in Schertler, look great .. damn, I wanted that mandolin.
Sadly, it wasn't to be - I tried a few in the Eastman range again, and had the same problem.
I know it isn't the fault of the Eastman mandolins - when so many people here praise them, they can't be wrong.
It is definitely me.
I have small hands and due to an injury when young, can' bend by left hand wrist more than about 20% from straight - this means I have to play 'square' to the neck using my pinky for 5th and 7th. That's fine - I play British trad stuff mainly, and get by well enough.
Clearly something in the Eastman design doesn't like me
So I dropped that idea and played around with the Breedloves on display.
The Crossover OF VS was the cheapest, and the one I liked the look of least... but it worked best for me.
Not sure if it is the wider neck, (I am Ok with other narrower necks), or whatever but everything clicked - fluency was fine, dynamics good etc - it just felt 'easy' and sounded good.
Having a JJB pickup fitted - can't wait till I have it back in my hands.
MAS temporarily in remission
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