(New) Mandolin Suggestions

[renee]

Hi my name is Renee, I would like to learn how to play the Mandolin. What is a good starting Mandolin?
I found a Rogue Mandolin model RM100A on craigs list. http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/ms ... 55885.html

[cutter]

Hi Renee & welcome,
You may get a few different opinions here but here's my 2 cents worth:
Buy from a reputable shop or music store that will perform a proper set up and give you a guarantee. If you know someone that already plays, bring them along. As a beginner I wouldn't spend more than 500.00. You can get a fairly nice mandolin in the 300.00 to 500.00 range with a proper set up that will do you justice. Down the road and if you stay with mandolin playing you can always upgrade. "A" style mandolins tend to run a little cheaper due to simpler construction as compared to "F" style and I don't think you'll sacrifice any tonal quality. "Kentucky" mandolins have a wide range of mandolins for novice to advanced players. "Eastman" does as well (just to name a couple). As stated earlier, if you are brand new to the mandolin try to get an experienced player to assist you in your purchase. As far as Craigslist adds - beware - I personally wouldn't buy anything I couldn't look over, play or seek experienced opinion on before buying.

Hope It Helps and Good Luck

[cutter]

Oh, try and stay with solid carved tops. They're going to sound much better than a plywood top.

[Joel]

I first started on an A-style Kentucky and thought it was a very well built instrument. Definitely get a solid top.