Re: Best prices Gibson F5
IMHO this quote from Charley D should be a mandatory addition to any thread that requests comparisons between mandolin models, vintages, manufacturers, or whatever:
I think we have all stressed the importance of playing any mandolin before you purchase it. Every hand-built instrument (Heck, any machine-built instrument) will sound different than the preceding instrument and the following instrument. That is the nature of musical instruments built of wood. The mandolin you think is horrible will be wonderful to the next guy that comes along and visa-versa.
Inevitably, we generalize about the "differences" between Mandolin X and Mandolin Y, based on who made 'em when, and where, and outa what. Not saying these generalizations don't have some value; if someone wants to compare a Gibson F-5 to a Harmony Monterey, we know enough about each model to impart some wisdom on the subject. But the significant differences between individual mandolins can't be addressed by just listing make, model, and year.
I'll try to remember that before I pontificate in the future; may not always adhere to that resolution, but it'll be in the back of my mind somewhere...
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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