When it comes to the "fit and finish" of a new instrument, Bill Collings just isn't about to take a back seat to anyone. So, knowing that, it's no surprise that the first Collings mandolins are as cleanly built as any I've seen. Unlike some makers whose quality is uneven, we've been seeing a consistent production of high grade mandolins from Collings. He tells me he's working on developing the "F" model, by the way.

The specs are the usual: nicely carved and graduated maple back & sides, and spruce top. Full sunburst finish, ebony fingerboard and bridge, mitred purfling on all edges. As to the sound, these are right in there. We have had over a dozen of them through the store now. They do vary a little bit as to tone and loudness but all within the spec of "personal taste."

Read our initial Gryphon Gazette Reviews

Click on the small version to see a larger picture.