by Gerry McCartney

Date Added: Sunday 27 April, 2008

My first surprise on opening the custom case was the size of my new MD915. I had forgotten how small F type mandos are in reality (I've been playing folk mandos with deeper bodies for more than 30 years). The second surprise was its sound. It was massive - a classic contradiction of the old canard that size matters! You will not believe the bark of this little instrument until you hear it for yourself. In comparison to my lovely Oakwood folk mando - no competition! Its tonality was also amazing - a lovely woody resonance - just what I needed for Old Time music which the Oakwood couldn't deliver. And given that it was just out of the box, this was the worst it was ever going to sound. With each practice and hard session, it would just get better and better.

After that, I started to examine its construction, appearance and workmanship. I cannot stress enough that in all three areas it passed with flying colours. The quality of woods used are outstanding and the finish is impeccable. It also comes with a high quality custom made case.

I bought the Eastman MD915 on a recommendation of a friend in Oz - another mando player. He had tested the 915 against against Gibsons costing £5K-£6K Stg. The Eastman blew them all out of the water. That's why he bought one and, on this say-so, I did the same.

As any player knows, finding a good instrument is like a search for the Holy Grail. I think I've found mine in the Eastman MD915. Seriously folks, if you want value for money, do yourselves a favour and buy one of these mandos. You'll never regret the decision.

Rating: [5 of 5 Stars!]