The Loar 310brb vs 590ms

[aqualung23]

Hi all, looking for purchase advice. I currently have a The Loar LM-310 brb and could purchase a used 590-ms for about $400. Would this be a significant upgrade? The main differences are a carved back and sides and Grover tuners, which the 310 does not have. Any input appreciated.

[milli857]

Hi all, looking for purchase advice. I currently have a The Loar LM-310 brb and could purchase a used 590-ms for about $400. Would this be a significant upgrade? The main differences are a carved back and sides and Grover tuners, which the 310 does not have. Any input appreciated.

I probably wouldnt; the upgrade probably would not be huge. Lessons would get you a lot more improvement, or save your dollars for a big upgrade instead of a little one.

If you have a chance to play it before buying, that would probably be worthwhile though, then your ears and fingers can be the judge of whether it's worth the money.

[Dan in NH]

save your dollars for a big upgrade instead of a little one

Skip your second mandolin and go straight to your third mandolin.

[aqualung23]

Thanks for the advice guys! I actually really love the one I have and it seems like it was an excellent choice for a beginner. I’m going to spend some time with this for a while.

[DonKayG]

Let me throw some flies in the milk.. I have a 110 A honey creek which I love and use as my travel mandolin. I also own two Webers, a Gallatin and an Absaroka. I saw the 110 on the wall of a small shop tried it and really liked it for the price. They also had a 310 F and it was nice as well. Slightly better, a little more complex tone but also slightly more money. Both of these mandolins were set up well in this shop. I had an A style case to fill from a previous mandolin I sold, so I bought the 110 to bang around with. I've always thought a 590 might have the potential be a really good F provided it is set up well. All solid 590 vs just solid top on the 310. I suspect there would be a substantial difference and I could see making that upgrade.