The Collings Forum

Presently researching Collings mandolins. I bought my first Collings instrument about 2 years ago (CJ35SB) and I love it.
Thought I would give a shot at learning to play a mandolin. On the fence on getting a brand new MT2 (I kinda like new) or a used MF5.
I'll let you know what I decide on...this will be a lifetime mandolin so I don't want to rush into it.

Jimmy, The mandolin is a great rabbit hole to explore. Check out this torrified varnish MT2 that just arrived at Music Emporium. I am a big fan of varnish mandolins, as to me they sound way more open and airy compared to the lacquer models.
I'd bet that with the torrified top & varnish.....this MT2 is bound to be a winner. Good luck with the search.
https://themusicemporium.com/new-arriva ... rst-custom

Thanks for the link Greg. That sure looks like a beauty!

Well I visited Nashville this past week with my wife and I ended up with a new Collings MF5. I know there will be haters out there saying what is a beginner doing with this incredible instrument, but I believe in getting something I know will be a lifetime instrument. My wife was actually the person who insisted I get this! No argument there.
Ben Clark was there with his sisters (banjoben.com) and he was kind enough to have his sister Penny audition it for me. She's an incredible mandolin picker. She gave it the seal of approval for me. Check them out@The Purple Hulls.
I'm having it delivered next week and I can't wait to start learning a new instrument.
I'm early in retirement and life is short...so why not get a great mandolin!

MT2V birdseye with Weldon Lister tailpiece.

I have an MT in Sheraton Brown. Bought it on a whim and really enjoy it, a smile every time I pick it up.

I have an MF that is a workhorse, a Northfield Big Mon that is equally used, and a 1917 Gibson A-1 that I pull out for Olde Timey and fiddle tunes. Have had MTs, MT-Os and a variety of other mandos through a busy "catch and release" phase...

maplebaby wrote: ↑Fri Apr 19, 2019 4:40 pm MT2V birdseye with Weldon Lister tailpiece.

Beautiful Tailpiece and a gorgeous back on that instrument.

thank you!

I recently bought this!
I'm mainly a guitarist, and my MF didn't get used much and was too nice to just sit in the case. This Waterloo is just what I needed.....AND it has a sound that I like even better. It's more full and rich sounding.
Love it!~