Just got word from Herb Trottman @ Fretted Instruments that my new mando had arrived. Has anybody out there played this wood combo on an Oval yet? What did you think? Thanks,Phil

Phil,
I had an MT Oval but not sure if it was Englemann top or not ? I never asked ?
It was a sweet sounding Mando. Did not have the "cut" my MF does but was more open and airy sounding. I really liked it and only sold it in hopes of getting an MF Oval some day here when Bill decided to cut them loose.

phil, did you get birdeye maple?

Not this time; I have a birdseye MT20 already. This one is flamey maple, what Alex had told me this made a killer combo. I will be picking it up today, within hours, then I will post pic's. MaryMary I have a question for ya. How exctly is the new F w/oval different than the MT20? I thought that the F scroll was solid? Is the bracing the same? I have an MT,MT2V and now two MT20's; one is birdseye honeyburst w/red spruce top and one w/Englemann and rock maple. I don't have Collings F but the new F-Ovals look veryvery tempting.

Hey Phil,
When you see Herb later on could you do me a favor?

Just tell him that Rick Skeens says HI !

I'm overdue for a visit to Bama.

I got your message/shout-out to Herb he sends his best.phil IAM REALLY GLAD TO HAVE SUCH A GREAT GUY AS MY COLLINGS DEALER.

Yep, I miss Ole Herb myself.,. I don't get to see him near as often as I should.

So, how is that new Mando ?

I want a MF Oval with varnish finish. I don't care what wood the top is now... Phil, you've got two ovals!!! That is amazing. How do you find time to play two?

Yeah but after this a/b one may be for sale if I don't trade it for an MF5 @ Fretted Instruments/Herb Trottman's shop. Phil

Phil, you looking at a new MF 5 or a used one?

If it's used, I know that Mando.
Give me a PM if you want.

The one Iam looking at is used and it has the wider nut option, flamed maple back. phil

Well, that's a different one then. But I'm glad to hear he has at least one with the wide nut.
I am thinking about getting me a second Mando, and want to wait for the MF Oval to come out in "basic" trim. but if not I will be looking for a standard MF with the wide nut.