Re: Beginner: Kentucky KM-150 or Aria M-180?
1. Can't find specs on the Aria, but based on several Google look-ups, it appears to be a mid-price instrument from 40-50 years ago. I've seen the top variously described as "solid, carved spruce" and "laminated, at least three plies," so there seems to be some confusion; perhaps the specs changed on it during the years it was made. Back and sides are described as mahogany, which is not the most common wood used in mandolin construction -- maple is -- but has been used by other makers. Asking prices for the AM-180 seem to vary, down to as low as $125, so the listed one is not a great bargain.
2. The Kentucky KM-150 is perhaps the most consistently recommended "starter" mandolin on the Cafe. All solid woods, carved rather than heat-pressed, and a reliable mandolin if properly set up and adjusted. The listed one also has a decent case. In your shoes I'd buy the Kentucky.
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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