Where to go shopping?

[GeeBee]

I'm getting tired of my cheap Johnson A-style mandolin. And since I mostly play Bluegrass, I really want an F-style like all the cool kids have.

When I decided to buy an upright bass, I got some really good advice on a bass forum: Go to the Bass Violin shop in Greensboro, NC. (I live in NC.) The very knowledgeable folks there hooked me up with an affordable instrument that was professionally set-up.

So my question is, is there a shop within a couple hours drive of Raleigh, NC that really understands mandolins, can help me find one that suits me, and knows how to do a proper set-up?

Lacking all that, is there a luthier near me who knows mandolin set-ups? Just in case I find an instrument at a pawn shop or something.

[Charles E.]

What is your price range? As for luthiers, I would recommend Hanson and Crawford in Durham. Good guys and they do great work.

[Bazz Jass]

This guy would be great to visit. LOTS of high end stuff!

http://www.mandolincentral.com/contact

And these guys in Graham:

http://www.mandomutt.com/products-page/mandolins

A bit further away:

https://www.ronspickinparlor.com/

A good few options!

[Southern Man]

Longer than a couple of hours, but you are within driving distance of Nashville and a trip would give you more options than anywhere else.

Failing that, depending on your timeline, you could wait until IBMAs come around in the fall, I understand there are lots of makers and sellers there (I have not been myself).

[addamr]

Also Lowe Vintage in Burlington.


Adam

[urobouros]

I had a great experience with Kevin at MandoMutt but I believe they're an online only store.

[GeeBee]

Y'all are awesome! Thanks for the tips.

[Charles E.]

Harry's Guitar shop usually has an assortment of mandolins...

https://harrysguitarshop.com/collect.../style_f-model

Something like an Eastman 515 would be a good step up from your current instrument.

Good hunting!