Best
Student
Mandolin
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Dazzling quality is showcased with chrome plated hardware
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Best Feature: Beautiful aesthetic courtesy of a natural satin finish
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Best
Quality
Mandolin
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Overall: Choice tonewood fingerboard ensures silky smooth playability
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Best Feature: High-gloss sunburst finish creates traditional beauty and luster
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Acoustic Electric Mandolin
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Overall: Explore the rich midrange and shimmering top end of a sapele body
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Best Feature: Bright, crystal-clear tone from a spruce top
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TedScore™: 9/10
Grabbing a musical instrument can completely change your life, and the mandolin is a **brilliant** choice for **new** musicians!
I picked my ‘Mandy’ up for the first time 15 years ago, and I’ve never looked back.
This compact and versatile instrument produces a unique sound that can be jammed out in various musical genres.
But with so many mandolins to choose from, it can be overwhelming.
Don’t worry, I’ve got your back!
I’ve put together a guide to help you find the best beginner mandolin that fits your style and budget.
Brief History of The Mandolin
The mandolin is a stringed musical instrument from the lute family.
It has a pear-shaped body, a fretted neck, and four or more sets of paired strings that are plucked with a plectrum.
The mandolin’s origins can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was known as a pandura.
It was later developed in Italy during the 16th century and became known as the mandolino.
The instrument quickly became popular throughout Europe, and by the 18th century, it had made its way to the United States.
Over time, the mandolin has undergone several changes and improvements.
In the 19th century, the deep-bowled mandolin became popular, especially the Neapolitan form, following the appearance of an international hit, the Spanish Students.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the mandolin underwent further changes, with the introduction of the Gibson mandolin.
Orville H. Gibson, a young man from New York, began designing and building his stringed instruments in the 1880s.
In 1898, he was granted a patent for a new design in arch-top instruments. His early instruments were highly experimental and ornate.
Today, the mandolin is a popular instrument used in various musical genres, including bluegrass, folk, and classical music.
It’s a versatile instrument that can be played solo or in a group, and it’s relatively easy to learn, making it a great choice for beginners.
They toured Europe and America, and their performances created a stir that helped the mandolin to become widely popular.
Why The Mandolin is a Great Instrument for Beginners
If you’re looking for a fun and interesting instrument to learn, the mandolin is a great option for beginners. Here are a few reasons why:
Types of Mandolins
If you’re looking to buy a beginner mandolin, you may wonder what type is best for you. There are several types of mandolins to choose from, each with its unique style and sound.
Let’s look closer at the three main types of mandolins:
A-Style Mandolins
A-style mandolins are the most common type of mandolin.
They have a teardrop-shaped body with a flat top and back. A-style mandolins are often less expensive than F-style mandolins and are a good choice for beginners.
F-Style Mandolins
F-style mandolins are more expensive than A-style mandolins and have a distinctive scroll-shaped body.
They also have a longer neck and a wider fretboard than A-style mandolins. Professional musicians often use F-style mandolins and are known for their rich, warm sound.
Bowl-Back Mandolins
Bowl-back mandolins, also known as Neapolitan mandolins, have a round, bowl-shaped body.
They’re less common than A-style and F-style mandolins and are often used in classical music. Bowl-back mandolins have a bright, clear sound and are a good choice for playing solo.
Parts of A Mandolin
As a beginner, it’s important to understand the different parts of a mandolin.
This knowledge will help you tune your instrument, change strings, and make adjustments to improve sound quality.
Here are the main parts of a mandolin:
The fretboard is the neck part where you press the strings to change the pitch. It’s usually made of ebony, rosewood or other tonewoods.
The fretboard has metal frets that divide the strings into different notes.
The body of a mandolin is usually made of wood and has a curved shape. It’s divided into two parts: the top and the back.
The top is made of spruce or other tonewoods, and the back is made of maple or other hardwoods.
The body also has two f-shaped soundholes.
The tuning pegs are located on the headstock, and the strings are tightened or loosen to change the pitch.
They are usually made of metal and can be turned clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the tension of the strings.
The neck is attached to the body and is usually made of maple. It has a fingerboard made of ebony, rosewood, or other tonewoods.
The neck is where the tuning pegs are located.
The pickguard is a black ABS plastic plate that protects the top of the mandolin from scratches and damage caused by the pick.
The bridge is located on the mandolin’s body and holds the strings in place. It’s usually made of rosewood or other tonewoods and can be adjusted to change the strings’ height.
The strings are the most important part of the mandolin. They are usually made of steel or other metals and come in different gauges. The strings are attached to the tailpiece and the tuning pegs.
The tailpiece is located on the bottom of the mandolin and is used to anchor the strings. It’s usually made of metal and can be adjusted to change the tension of the mandolin strings.
Choosing A Beginner Mandolin
When choosing a beginner mandolin, there are a few factors to consider. Let’s cover some of the most important things to remember when buying your first mandolin.
Acoustic VS Electric Mandolins
The first thing to consider is whether you want an acoustic or electric mandolin. Acoustic mandolins are the traditional option and tend to have a warmer, more natural sound.
You’ll also want an acoustic instrument if you participate in a mandolin orchestra.
On the other hand, electric mandolins can be amplified and have a more versatile sound. If you’re unsure which one to choose, it’s worth trying both to see which one you prefer.
Price Range
Another important factor to consider is your budget. Mandolins can range from very affordable to quite expensive, so deciding on a price point before you start your search is important.
Keep in mind that more expensive doesn’t always mean better, especially for a beginner. It’s possible to find a great beginner mandolin at a budget-friendly price.
Brand Reputation
The brand of the mandolin is also worth considering. Look for brands with a good reputation for quality and customer service. Some well-known brands in the mandolin world include Kentucky, Ibanez, and Donner.
Sound Quality
Of course, sound quality is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mandolin.
Look for a quality mandolin, with a clear, balanced sound that suits your playing style and musical preferences.
Try out a few different mandolins before deciding.
Playability
In addition to sound quality, playability is also important. Look for a mandolin with a comfortable neck and good action (the strings’ height above the fretboard). A mandolin that is difficult to play can be discouraging for a beginner.
Durability
Durability is another factor to consider, especially if you plan to take your mandolin on the go. Look for a mandolin with sturdy construction and good-quality materials.
Reviews and Recommendations
Durability is another factor to consider, especially if you plan to take your mandolin on the go. Look for a mandolin with sturdy construction and good-quality materials.
Where to Buy
Finally, consider where to buy your mandolin. You can find mandolins at music stores, online retailers, and even second-hand on sites like eBay.
Make sure to buy from a reputable seller and check their return policy if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.
Top Beginner Mandolins
If you’re looking for a beginner mandolin, many options exist. To help you narrow it down, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best beginner mandolins on the market.
Here are our top picks:
Eastman MD305
The Eastman MD305 is a great beginner mandolin that offers excellent value for money.
It has a solid spruce top, which gives it a bright, clear sound, and a maple back and sides, which add warmth and depth to the tone.
Eastman MDO305 Octave Mandolin, A-Style, F-Holes
FEATURES: Solid maple back and sides for a warm and resonant tone
OTHER INFO: Adjustable truss rod for easy adjustments to the neck and action
- Excellent tone and projection and a beautiful finish
- Comes with a padded bag for protection during transport
- Higher price point than some other beginner octave mandolins
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Kentucky KM-150
The Kentucky KM-150 is another great option for beginners. It has a solid spruce top and solid maple back and sides, which give it a rich, full-bodied sound.
The neck is also made of maple, which makes it strong and durable.
One thing to note about the KM-150 is that it has a slightly wider neck than some other mandolins, which can be a little harder to play if you have smaller hands.
Kentucky KM-150 Standard A-model Mandolin - Sunburst
FEATURES: Solid German spruce top gives you clean articulation and a crisp, bright tone
OTHER INFO: Slim Alpine maple neck for comfortable, easy action
- Great tone and projection
- Classic sunburst finish
- Easy to play and comfortable to hold
- Some players may want to upgrade to a higher-quality instrument as they advance
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez M510E
The Ibanez M510E is an affordable, versatile acoustic-electric mandolin perfect for beginners and experienced players.
It features a spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a built-in pickup system for easy amplification.
Ibanez M510E Electro Acoustic Mandolin, Brown Sunburst
FEATURES: Bright, crystal-clear tone exudes in abundance from a spruce top
OTHER INFO: Glide seamlessly across the New Zealand pine fretboard and mahogany neck
- Affordable price point for a quality acoustic-electric mandolin
- Built-in pickup system allows for easy amplification and performance
- Comfortable and easy to play
- Doesn't come with a case or gig bag
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rogue RM-100A
The Rogue RM-100A is another great budget option. It has a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, which make it comfortable and easy to play.
The body is made of laminated wood, which helps keep the cost down but still offers decent sound quality.
Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin, Sunburst
FEATURES: Maple back and sides for a bright and punchy tone
OTHER INFO: Chrome hardware for a sleek and modern look
- Extremely affordable
- Comes with a gig bag
- Lightweight and easy to play
- Not as durable or high-quality as more expensive mandolins
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ozark Mandolin
The Ozark Mandolin Army and Navy Model is a budget-friendly A-style mandolin perfect for beginners and students.
The classic design and affordable price point make it a popular choice for those looking to try out the mandolin.
Ozark Mandolin Army and Navy Model
FEATURES: Exceptional dynamics and warmth emanate from a solid mahogany build
OTHER INFO: Beautiful aesthetic courtesy of a natural satin mahogany finish
- Affordable price point for a solid top mandolin
- Good sound quality for the price
- May require some setup or adjustments out of the box
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Accessories for Beginner Mandolin Players
If you’re starting on the mandolin, you might wonder what accessories you need to get started. Here are some essential accessories to consider:
Picks
Picks are an essential accessory for any mandolin player. They come in various materials, sizes, and shapes, so finding the right one is important.
Some popular materials include plastic, nylon, and tortoiseshell. It’s a good idea to try out a few different picks to see which one feels most comfortable for you.
Dunlop Primetone Standard 1.00mm Smooth, 12 Pick Pack
FEATURES: Durable, reliable Ultex design will survive through many future performances
OTHER INFO: Hand-crafted bevelled edges for lightening fast playability and a feel you won't forget
- Bring out the true nature and voice of your instrument with renowned quality
- Plenty of surface area for the ultimate control over your style
- Smooth surface of the pick may make it more difficult to grip and control with sweaty hands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tuners
Tuners are another essential accessory for beginner mandolin players. They help you keep your instrument in tune and can make a big difference in the sound of your playing.
Many different types of tuners are available, including clip-on tuners, pedal tuners, and smartphone apps.
Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner, Black
FEATURES: Provides full-color display
OTHER INFO: Clip-on design for easy attachment to the headstock
- Accurate and reliable tuning
- Bright and easy-to-read display with 360-degree swivel action
- None
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cases
A case is a must-have accessory for mandolin players who want to protect their instrument. A good case will protect your mandolin from scratches, dings, and other damage.
Gig bags are a popular option for beginner players, as they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Gator GL-MANDOLIN Rigid EPS Mandolin Case
FEATURES: Padded, plush interior for scratch-free, dust-free protection
OTHER INFO: Rugged, water-resistant exterior and a lightweight reinforced, dense EPS foam frame
- With an outer pocket for storing favourite accessories
- Give your mandolin a highly protective place to rest with world-renowned Gator quality
- Slightly pricier compared to other brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Straps
If you plan on standing while playing your mandolin, you’ll need a strap to keep it in place. Many different types of straps are available, including leather, nylon, and cloth.
It’s important to find a strap that’s comfortable and secure.
D'Addario Mandolin Strap, Black
FEATURES: Designed for optimal support of mandolins
OTHER INFO: Safe attachment without scratches or damage courtesy of cradle-style design
- Durability and safety for all finishes provided by premium leather material
- Adjustable length and perfect fir guaranteed courtesy of multiple strap holes
- Higher price range compared to other straps
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Strings
Strings are an essential accessory for any mandolin player. They come in various gauges and materials, so finding the right one for your playing style is important. Some popular materials include steel, bronze, and nickel.
Ernie Ball Earthwood 2065 Mandolin Medium Set
FEATURES: Popular mandolin strings provide bright & balanced tone
OTHER INFO: 80 copper & 20 zinc provides true brass tone
- Manufactured to the highest standards for optimum performance
- Consistent - keeping the unique tones of the mandolin
- Some may prefer lighter gauge strings for easier playability
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Learning to Play The Mandolin
Basic Techniques
Before you start playing, it’s important to learn the proper playing position.
Hold the mandolin in your lap with the body resting on your right thigh. Use your left hand to hold the neck of the instrument and your right hand to pluck the strings. Keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed.
When it comes to picking style, there are two main techniques: alternate picking and tremolo picking.
Alternate picking involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, while tremolo picking involves rapidly repeating the same note.
Both techniques are important to learn and can be used in a variety of musical styles.
Essential Chords
You’ll need to learn some essential chords to start playing songs on the mandolin. Some of the most common chords for beginners include G, D, A, and C.
These chords can be played in various positions on the fretboard, so it’s important to practice moving between them smoothly.
Learning chord shapes is an essential part of playing the mandolin. Once you’ve mastered the basic chords, you can explore more complex chord progressions and experiment with different strumming patterns.
Popular Songs for Beginners
Many great songs are perfect for new mandolin players to learn. Some popular options include “Angeline the Baker,” “Cripple Creek,” and “Old Joe Clark.”
These songs feature simple chord progressions and are great for practising your picking technique.
As you become more confident, you can explore more complex songs and experiment with your own arrangements. The key is to practice regularly and challenge yourself to try new things.
Online Resources for Learning
There are many great online resources available for learning the mandolin. Websites like Mandolin Cafe and Mandolin Compass offer free lessons, tutorials, and resources for players of all skill levels.
In addition to online resources, many great books, DVDs, and instructional materials are available for purchase. Whether you prefer to learn from a teacher or on your own, plenty of resources are available to help you master the mandolin.
Best Beginner Mandolin
Summary
Learning to play the mandolin can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. It may take some time to get used to the instrument, but with practice and dedication, you can master it.
Remember to take care of your mandolin by keeping it clean and properly stored. You can also take lessons from a professional instructor or use online resources to improve your skills.
I hope that this article has helped you in choosing the best beginner mandolin for your needs.
Enjoy your musical journey and have fun playing the mandolin!
Wait, there’s more!!!
Take a look at my Beginner’s Guide To Tuning A Mandolin, to help you get on your way.
In the discourse of musical instrument selection, particularly concerning the mandolin, one must consider not only the tangible aspects such as construction, materials, and aesthetic appeal but also the nuanced interplay between the instrument and the player’s personal musical journey. The article, while informative, somewhat glosses over the intrinsic value of an instrument growing alongside its player. As a semantic example, the distinction between A-Style and F-Style mandolins is not merely visual but resonates deep within the tonal philosophy of each musician, shaping the very soundscape of their creative output.
about the price range, does going cheaper really affect the learning curve? kinda worried i might get what i pay for and it end up harder to learn.
While the article provides a comprehensive overview for beginners, I wonder if there are recommendations for those of us transitioning from other string instruments? Are there intermediate level mandolins that cater to musicians with a strong foundational understanding but new to the mandolin?
Kentucky KM-150 is indeed a solid choice for transitioning musicians.
Mark_theShark, I switched from guitar to mandolin last year. I found the Kentucky KM-150 a great step up without breaking the bank. Hope that helps!
Just got my first mandolin and this guide is exactly what I needed, so excited to start learning! Thanks for the tips, Lewis!