Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Eastman 315 vs 815? Tone/playability

I have a 1950s Gibson A50 and an Eastman 615 F style. Naturally, I much prefer the sound of the Gibson. It has a really warm, woody sound that’s just hard to beat. I’m trying to decide on whether I should trade them both in for the Eastman 815 vintage or just trade the Gibson for the Eastman 315. I love the sound of the 315 when I compare it to the 615. I read that the 815 has that warm tone, but I haven’t been able to play one myself to compare.

I would keep the Gibson, but the neck is built very thick and I have a hard time playing in keys further down the neck.

I play in church and do small gigs from time to time with our family band. So I am looking for something that has a pickup and sounds good through a sound system but also one I can enjoy playing for my own personal pleasure. I’ve only been playing mando for a year and half so I’m still learning. Needing a great (affordable) combination of tone and playability.

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Hey @ashley.hass

I just got back from a trip to the store. I spent some time with an 815 vintage we have in stock. In my opinion, it is the best Eastman mandolin I’ve ever played and among the top mandolins of any I’ve played, especially a new mandolin. I highly highly recommend that particular mandolin…Jake knows which one if you want to call him about it

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Well, I took your advice, Ben, and I don’t regret it! This Eastman 815 mandolin is so beautiful and I love the tone!! :heart_eyes: It’s only been a couple of days, but I’m enjoying it so much! The sound and feel of it make it so delightful to play.

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I’m so excited for you!!!