I was on the Strings and Things web site and I saw that they had an Eastman 404 Black Top in stock - A body, oval sound hole, sitka spruce top, and mahogany back & sides. That's the same mandolin that I drove an hour and a half to Johnson Strings to pay. I figured that since Concord NH was only a couple of town over then I owed it to myself to give the 404 another chance. And of course play the Eastman 315 and the Eastman 515 CS that they also had on the wall.
I started by playing the oval hole mahogany back & sides Eastman 404. I have to say that this time I DID hear a slight difference in tone, not as bright as maple f-hole mandolins I'm accustom to playing. Not noticeably better, just very slightly different.
I put the 404 back and I gave a go on the Eastman 315 - F body, f-hole, sitka spruce top, and maple back & sides. As usual I was deeply impressed by the 315s tone and playability. There is no doubt in my mind that anyone who buys an Eastman 315 mandolin will be happy with their purchase. Playability & tone were rock solid.
I also took down the Eastman 515 CS - F body, f-hole, sitka spruce top, and maple back & sides in their glossy Classic Sunburst finish. I played it & played it, and I very much WANTED to say it sounded better than the Eastman 315. In the end I just couldn't. It sounded good, but not noticeably better. It looked good, with the bound neck and the glossy finish, but the matte finish on the 315 looked good, too.
I talked for a while with the counter man, and he said he sells a lot of the Eastman 305 & 315 mandolins. I can see why.
As much as the snob in me wants to spend a lot of money on a flashy instrument, I am sorely tempted to buy an Eastman 315. And I don't think it would be a mistake if I did. It feels, plays, and sounds good.
This is exactly how I ended up taking home a Taylor GS Mini, which has become one of my favorite guitars.
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