Long time guitar player, I'v been playing mandolin for just under a year now. I've been using a $70 Rogue, and I've decided that I'm overdue for an upgrade.
I have an opportunity to buy a 1989 Washburn M-3SW with a fishman-200 pickup already installed (important since I plan to gig with it) and a hard case for $400. I've heard that the late 80s versions of these mando's are great, and are completely different than the M3SWs that are being made now. It's owned by a professional luthier and is presumably in great shape. I'll probably pay an extra $100 for a professional setup bringing the total to around $500.
The other direction I'm thinking is the Eastman 315 brand new (or something similar). Its around $750 with a pro setup and would probably cost me around $200 extra to have a pickup installed. Brings me to just under $1000. There's loads of other new options in this price range that I'd be open to consider.
I understand that all of these instruments are in the entry level range, but I do want a mandolin that I'll be happy to gig on and that I'll keep for a long time.
Unfortunately, due to where I live, I don't really have the opportunity to play any of them beforehand. I understand that I'll get more bang for the buck with an A-style, but I love the look of F-style and that's important enough to me to sacrifice some money.
I guess my question essentially is: Should I pickup the used Washburn for $400, or spend the extra money for a new one from Eastman, Loar etc.? It seems from my research that the late 80s models of these are comparable to a new mandolin in the $700-800 range, but I know it's a loaded comparison without getting to play them.
Does anyone own a late 80s M-SW3 or have any experience with them?
Thanks
Z
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