Re: Difference in Custom and Base
Usually the differences are more figured woods, additional inlay work, perhaps more time applying the finish, polishing etc. Also, remember that "custom" often means incorporating individual details for a particular customer –– e.g. I had Bernie Lehmann put my initials on the fanned-fret instrument he built for me. (They're affixed in such a way that a future owner could remove them, rather than being inlaid, so if any of you want to buy it after I kick the bucket, you can "de-monogram" it.)
If you have a luthier build a mandolin "just for you," you can have it embellished to your taste -- consistent with his/her construction methods. You should be aware that gold sparkles and a fuchsia sunburst may affect resale value.
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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