I’m looking to buy an MD515 F model Eastman Mandolin. (The brown finish, not the sunburst.)
Will you be getting any in?
I haven’t found one on the shelf to play yet, but I’ve heard good things.
Cody
Eastmans coming soon!
Yep, I’ve got some on the way. They are incredible!
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I have only played a few Kentuckys. I understand they are built well compared to other entry-level instruments. Of the few I played, none of them inspired me to sell my Eastman.
I started on an entry-level Ibanez A-style for about a year. Once I stepped up to the 315, I played more and improved. The first day I brought the Eastman to a jam, I let my friend take it for a spin. He normally plays a $3600 Weber. Two weeks later he showed up with a new MD515. He said he loved mine, but wanted the glossier finish!
I have the “Mandolin for Dummies” book by Don Julin, there’s also a second book of exercises that go with it. For reference at jams, I pack the “Mandolin Picker’s Fakebook” by David Brody. Lastly, not a how-to book, but ‘partly why I play the mandolin’ book is “Can’t You Hear Me Calling: The Life of Bill Monroe, Father of Bluegrass” by Richard Smith. As you can see, I’m a grasser!
A good sounding and good playing instrument will inspire you to play more and improve. It’s worth the extra saving, overtime, or garage sale. I picked up extra work around the holidays to buy mine, came with a case with a hygrometer. Never used a capo.
Whatever you choose, I hope it brings you great joy!
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Ive been thinking I might spend the extra money to get the 515 instead of the 315. We’ll see what happens when Ben gets his stock in. I can’t wait to hear him showcase them.
Thanks for your input. Got me thinking more about that 515 now. 
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To help you decide, I have four 515s coming in a couple weeks. I was notified today that the 315s are still a couple months out. I’ll put you down for a 515
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Ben,
I presume they are all F-Style.
Of the 4, do you recall if any are “Sunburst” models?
There is a part of me that wants the “traditional” single color tone… another that likes the “sunburst”.
Might be a dumb question to question color…
I jump to the assumption that playability is equal. However, is there any thoughts to contrast one to the other beyond just personal style.
Sight unseen (well in real life), it is an interesting dilemma.
Any insights is most appreciated - especially from Ben and Jake but I open the question to all.
Plus, the question of value between Eastman and Kentucky brands… long-term.
They should look extremely similar to what you see here: https://www.eastmanguitars.com/mandolin_f_style
I believe both models will hold about the same resale value percentage.
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I’m kinda surprised at how little difference there is between the 315 and 515 models. Looks like about the only real differences are the tuners, a hard shell case with the 515, and the inlay material. Looks like Eastman doesn’t make a bad mando.
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Do you know if you will have the Starburst 515 finish? Looks like the differences are in tuners, finish 515 has gloss and 315 has matte, and the hard shell case.
I will be interested to know if there is a difference in “sound quality”.
Also, the value… not in resale but as compared to the Kentucky models… dollar to quality… if that makes sense.
Higher models of instruments usually have higher graded woods.
According to the website… Eastman 315 and 515 are made of the same wood.
The same wood doesn’t mean the same grade. It’s like steaks…they’re all cow, but many different qualities.
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Can you reserve one of the MD515 F model Eastman Mandolins (Brown) for me?
If I need to put a deposit down I can do that too. I’d like to get one from this next shipment.
Also, I can’t recall if they will be setup or not before shipping.
Please contact me if you need additional info or payment.
Thanks!
Cody
For sure, I have 4 coming in and I think you make the 3rd one spoken for. Yes, it includes setup, as will all my General Store instruments. @Jake will put you down and make sure we hold one for you and get you taken care of as soon as they come in. Thanks!
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Sweeet!!
I have been hunting for a while, but when I saw that you recommended the Eastman, that was the clincher.
The list of pro musicians playing Eastman instruments is impressive.
I’m originally from Marshall. Now in Galveston, county.
Thanks much!
Cody
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I hope there might be one left for me to consider! Seems they are being reserved quickly!
You need to let Jake know if you want one, that’s for sure!
Jake is already watching out to line me up with one - thank you.
By the way, I picked up a nice Levy leather strap to replace my nylon one - to combat that whole shoulder-slide annoyance. I got it from the website.
Thanks so much for the advice!
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Lawd. Have. Mercy.
I just sent Jake this message:
Hey Jake,
I received my Eastman, packed well and in perfect condition.
All I have to say is…Lawd. Have. Mercy.
That is such a sweet instrument. Such a difference from what I was playing. The action is perfect, the sweet tones from it are perfect. It is truly a gorgeous instrument. Everything I had hoped for. The Eastman case just compliments the whole package. (The sticker is already on the case!)
I can’t thank you enough. Your skills are much appreciated. I will be glad to testify to others about this instrument.
Lastly, I’ll say - I deserve this. 
Thanks again man!
Cody
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Are the Eastmans in?