For reference in this discussion listen to the Intermediate lessons for "blackberry blossom " and “Cherokee shuffle” what is the mandolin(brand and model) used in these videos?
So my question is about tone and different brand’s sounds. I currently play an eastman MD 304. I like it’s dry woody low end tone. I have the banjo ben store tone gaurd and string suppressors on it. I like the sound, but looking to upgrade in the future, and get something with a little more high end tone to it. But like all of us, I’m searching for that magical tone, my White Buffalo.
If u listen to the two songs i referenced, blackberry blossom in particular, the tone of this thing sounds like wooden laser beams. It’s a dry metallic lick sound that really stands out on this instrument than almost all the others on other videos. Does that make sense? I’m sure u get it. Anyway. @BanjoBen, My question is, is that sound more the instrument, or the recording equipment, or something else?
I understand that add ons, pick choice, string choice and technique can alter an instruments tone a good deal, but my MD 304 A style oval hole is not gonna shoot wooden laser beams. So when purchasing a new mandolin, what should I look for to try and get close to that tone?
Does the finish on the mandolin make a difference at all? What about brand? Is a Lore more likely to have that high end cluck than a Northfield or Kentucky? What about how the inside is constructed? How close can I get to that sound with a price point of $1000. Any opinions from anyone would be appreciated.
). All the things you mentioned do affect tone to a point, so does setup. And mandos even of the same make and model each have their own ‘voice’. My best advice (& yall know I’m no expert here), would be to go somewhere and play/try out as many mandos as you possibly can. You’ll start to hone in on what exactly you like, or don’t. There aren’t really any stores near us with anything other than very basic beginner mandos. We were up in Nashville last Oct and had the opportunity to go to Carter’s and I played a ton of different mandos there. Some were in the extremely high end price range, some mid range. I learned that the ones I preferred for tone and playability (as it pertains to my playing) were not the highest priced. I was not looking to buy that trip, just a kid in the candy store having a great day… Best luck in finding those wooden laser beams:slightly_smiling_face: and having fun in the search!!
great video!
