Longshot WTB: Eastman (or similar) F style Mandolin

guitargeek62

I have no idea why as such but I’d like to try my hand at a mando and I’ve always liked the look of F styles ones over A styles. I’m a big fan of Eastman’s acoustics and electrics, so the MD-315 seems like a sensible place to start, though if I can find a used one that would be even more sensible!

Sputnik

I have an Eastman DGM-1, from the Dave Grisman series.  It is said to be a faithful recreation of Dave Grisman's Giacomel mandolin which is itself an artistic interpretation of the F-style.  It's a long way up the quality hierarchy from an MD-315 and comes in a double-wrap luxury case, but if you wanted to try a top of the range Eastman at a reasonable price, let me know.

guitargeek62

Thanks @sputnick, they do look fantastic but would be well over what I’m budgeting for this. I’ve only played a mandolin two/three times so far!  

koss59

I don’t think I want to part with mine but just thought I’d add the 415 was quite a step for not much more money 

guitargeek62

koss59 said:

I don’t think I want to part with mine but just thought I’d add the 415 was quite a step for not much more money 

It does look bloody lovely in blacktop, though I'm assuming I'd want a maple back & sides version for more of a traditional tone? I'm saying all this based on presumptions from guitars, though honestly I have little idea of how that translates to bodies this small! I also like the vintage finish on the 315 more than the gloss option on the 415, assuming it's the equivalent of what they use on their acoustics too.

koss59

I think the traditional maple is much better for shouting through a bluegrass band but the warmer mahogany tone was more suited to the stuff I wanted it for in general.

Really the correct answer to any Mandolin question is to get an A style unless you’re spending a fortune but I am very happy with the tone of my 415 and it looks ace.

guitargeek62

Aye, there's plenty of good A style options out there... but I'm a sucker for the F style looks and only plan to have one Mando any time soon!   You may have a point about the warmer tone though, I'll just be noodling at home so I don't really need the brightness of the maple. I'll see what comes up - there's no rush on any of this