Results 1 to 6 of 6

Thread: Beginner Instrument Question

  1. #1

    Default Beginner Instrument Question

    Hi everyone,

    I am new to this forum and to the mandolin. I play guitar and a bit of fiddle, but have recently taken a fancy to the mandolin. I did some research on this site, and it looks like for a beginner, the best options are the Kentucky KM 150 or 250 or Eastman MD 304 or 305. I've seen them for 450-500ish at the Mandolin Store and Elderly with a set up.

    I'm not in a hurry to get an instrument, and I've been browsing Craiglist and the classifieds here, but haven't seen any beginner instruments come through. Right now with the sale and coupon at Guitar Center, the KM 250 comes out to $365 without a set up or bag. I was wondering whether you guys thought this was a good deal or if would be better to wait and see what comes along.

    Thank you very much!

  2. #2
    Registered User Marcus CA's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2007
    Location
    No. California
    Posts
    1,259

    Default Re: Beginner Instrument Question

    On the Cafe, I've read comments about instruments bought from GC needing a set-up --- which would have already been done on instruments bought from the Mandolin Store or Elderly. So, I'd suggest buying from either of those stores in order to avoid the set-up worry, and possibly the need. The other advantage of dealing with either of those stores is that they will be happy (and able) to answer any questions that you have before and after you make the purchase.
    still trying to turn dreams into memories

  3. #3
    not a donut Kevin Winn's Avatar
    Join Date
    Apr 2016
    Location
    Portland, OR
    Posts
    735

    Default Re: Beginner Instrument Question

    Doubtful that anyone on here would recommend not getting your instrument from Elderly or TMS. Both have a long history of great service to the Cafe community. I bought an instrument from Elderly and it was set up very nicely and the staff was very friendly and knowledgeable about mandolins. You will not get that from GC. Also, anything you get from GC would certainly need a setup and at least a gig bag, which will burn up any savings you get from the GC purchase. The mandolin from Elderly or TMS will come set up properly and probably include a gig bag.

    No brainer.
    "Keep your hat on, we may end up miles from here..." - Kurt Vonnegut

  4. #4
    Member
    Join Date
    Oct 2009
    Location
    Central Illinois
    Posts
    3,563

    Default Re: Beginner Instrument Question

    As others have posted, either Elderly or TMS would be a great recommendation as a good setup is very important !

  5. #5
    Scroll Lock Austin Bob's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2012
    Location
    Austin, Tx - some call it heaven
    Posts
    1,183

    Default Re: Beginner Instrument Question

    My experience is that the GC techs can vary widely in skill level. I've met some who were very knowledgeable on acoustic guitars, and could probably do an average setup on a mandolin. I've also met one tech who didn't seem to know how to adjust a Les Paul bridge, and told me the guitar was defective because he could not figure out how to intonate the B string. I took it home and did it myself after watching a video.
    A quarter tone flat and a half a beat behind.

  6. #6

    Default Re: Beginner Instrument Question

    Welcome to the Cafe, Gardenmaid!

    I bought an Eastman mandolin from TMS a few years ago. As others have said, it came with a great setup and was playable right out of the box. When I bought mine, TMS had a few "blem" mandolins for a good price. I bought one of them. The blem is almost impossible to see. No effect on the sound or playability. When I had a question about strings, I called TMS and talked to Dennis. He was very helpful. Not sure where you live, but TMS recently moved to the Nashville area. If not too far, you may be able to do an in-person visit.

Bookmarks

Bookmarks

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •