In the www I find different descriptions about the difference of both models. Does anyone know it?
In the www I find different descriptions about the difference of both models. Does anyone know it?
They're both fully hand-carved instruments, made from solid woods, with the same dimensions. The only difference is that the 505 has a glossy finish, while the 305 has a matt, more rustic finish. Also, the tuners are cheaper on the 305. Older 305's also had a different tailpiece, but the newer ones have the same cast tailpiece as the 505.
I used to have a 505, which was a nice instrument, but I sold it to fund an upgrade. One of my sons has a 305, and it's a great instrument.
There are various versions of the 515 (CC - rounded edges and no binding; 515v - varnish finish). But the differences between the basic 515 and the 315 that I can tell are -
different tuners
sunburst finish on 515
bound fingerboard on 515
hardshell case with the 515
Have played 3xx series Eastmans and liked them. Also played a couple of the varnish finished ones and liked them too. Maybe even more.
Brentrup Model 23, Boeh A5 #37, Gibson A Jr., Flatiron 1N, Coombe Classical flattop, Strad-O-Lin
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Thank you very much guys.
I have owned an Eastman 515 for more than 4 years and have been very happy with it. Good sound, nice feel and just what I needed at the time. Like most others in the cafe, I aspire for more, but the Eastman 515 has been a great instrument.
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2021 Ellis F5 Special #564 mandolin
2016 Eastman MD515 mandolin
1928 Ernst Heinrich Roth violin
Oh, and as Eric pointed out, the 515 has a bound fingerboard and comes with a better case, vs unbound fingerboard and padded gig bag on the 315.
The difference between bound/unbound fingerboard is something I'm more sensitive about here in the Gulf Coast area, where our humidity swings, especially in the winter months, can be pretty drastic. You might only have to address "fret sprout" once, and refrets are definitely easier without the binding, but I definitely prefer bound vs. unbound fingerboards, if it's an option.
2018 Kentucky KM-950, 2017 Ellis A5 Deluxe
Keith, This is a helpful post. I appreciate the way you explained that because I hadn't given much thought to the differences in bound versus unbound fretboards in the event of a refret or in the event that the climate is more humid. Thanks for sharing that info! Finally, I want to compliment you on that Eastman MD815V. I had one at one time from the previous decade. It's a wonderful instrument! Dan
What a beautiful mandolin!
Gold Tone F-10
The Loar LM 310f
I enjoy walking barefoot and playing my mandolin, and if I can do both at once, you'd be hard pressed to find a happier soul.
Thank you all for your kindness and your support.
Eastman MD 315
The Loar LM 310 F
Recording King RAM-3-TS
Portuguese Mandolin
2 Banjos, 2 Fiddles, 3 Guitars, Double Bass, Acoustic Bass, Viola, Cello, Irish Bouzouki, 2 Ukuleles, Flute, some Tin Whistles, Low Whistle, Piano, Bodhran, Cajon, Shawm.
What a great choice, and nice looking mandolin!
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