Top 10 Mandolins Deals Right Now

The Kentucky KM-252 Artist A-model Mandolin offers a solid carved Sitka spruce top and carved maple back and sides, which together provide a bright, clear tone with good punch—ideal for players who want a lively acoustic sound. Its slim maple neck and East Indian rosewood fingerboard make it comfortable to play, especially for those who prefer easy finger movement. The transparent amber lacquer finish gives the instrument a nice shine and classic look. Weighing around 5 pounds, it's fairly light and manageable for extended playing.

While the mandolin features quality woods and a thoughtful build, it is made in China and might not have the refinement of higher-end American or European models, though it offers good value for the price. It’s suited for intermediate players or those looking for a reliable mandolin with solid tone and playability without a premium cost. Beginners may find its slim neck helpful, but absolute newcomers might want to test it in person to ensure it feels right.

This model strikes a pleasing balance between solid craftsmanship and sound quality within its category.

The Washburn Americana Series 8-String Mandolin (M3EK-A) is designed for both beginners and seasoned players who appreciate a classic F-style mandolin. One of its standout features is the spruce top, which contributes to a bright and resonant sound, while the maple back and sides add durability and a touch of warmth to the tone. The sunburst gloss finish gives it an attractive look, making it visually appealing on stage or at home.

This mandolin comes as a complete pack, which is a great advantage for newcomers. It includes a gig bag for protection, a pitch pipe for easy tuning, a strap for comfort while playing, and picks to get you started right away. The addition of a piezo pickup with volume and tone knobs means you can easily amplify your sound, which is a nice touch for those who want to perform.

On the downside, some players might find the lightweight design (4.7 pounds) a bit flimsy compared to heavier models, which can affect sound projection. Additionally, while the engineered wood fretboard is functional, it may not provide the same feel or durability as traditional wood fretboards found in higher-end mandolins. The choice of D'Addario J73 light gauge strings is suitable for most players, though those looking for a particular sound may want to experiment with different string options.

The Loar LM-310F-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a quality instrument that won't break the bank. One of its standout features is the hand-carved solid spruce top, which offers a bright and resonant sound—important for any mandolin. The maple back and sides contribute to its durability and enhance tonal quality, making it suitable for various musical styles, including bluegrass and folk.

The neck profile features a thin 'V' shape, which is comfortable for many players, especially those with smaller hands. The 1-1/8" nut width provides enough space for easy finger placement, making it less challenging for newcomers to grasp the chords. The satin brown burst finish not only gives it an attractive appearance but also adds to its overall playability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. At 4 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy for extended playing sessions, which could be a drawback for some users. Also, while the quality is commendable, some players might find that it lacks the rich, complex tones of higher-end mandolins. The instrument's manual operation mode means that it requires a bit of care and skill to maintain, which could be a turn-off for absolute beginners. This mandolin is well-suited for players seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing instrument, especially those who are still developing their skills and want something that offers a good balance of affordability and quality.