I'm thinking about getting a Collings mandolin and just wanted to get folks opinions on what I should consider. First, mando is not my primary instrument and I don't play bluegrass. I'm more into contemporary folk and traditional.

I found a 1919 Gibson A4 (oval) that I have been playing and really like the warm, rich sound. But I want something that I can gig with (the Gibson is just too vintage to take around) and was thinking about a MT or MT2.

Do folks think I should stick with an A style with oval? Should I consider an A style with f holes? I'm thinking the oval soundhole will be a better match tone wise to the styles of music I'll be playing primarily. What are the differences in tone/features between a MT vs MT2? Couldn't afford much more than a use MTx.

Any advice much appreciated as I'm still new to the mandolin arena.

I'm all about buying more instruments, but what's wrong with using your A4 if you like it?? There are plenty of people that gig on Loars and Pre-War Martins. They're made to be played!

That being said the main difference between MTs and MT2s is the Engelmann vs Adirondack tops. The Mt will generally have a little more warmth while the MT2 has a little more bite. I have not played a new MT-Oval but they sure do look nice. It sounds like one of those would fit your playing style nicely.

Used MT. I have no problem with the 1 1/8 but some like the extra 1/16th on the nut width.

The mandolin cafe classifieds are a good place to look.

You don't tell us what your budget might be, but Jefe is right, look used. If you really like the sound of your old Gibby Oval than an MT is gonna be a better match for you. Unless you can find a used MT Oval you can afford.

New they are a bit on the pricey side. The Oval hole Collings will have the wider nut. The F holes the narrow nut unless special ordered. I go back and forth between my MF and my MF Oval all the time with no problems playing.

Shaun and Jefe give good advice. A used MT is just a no-brainer for most any style of music and they can be had at a great price anywhere from $1,400-1,800 depending on features.

I've tried a new MT O at AMW and was quite impressed although ovals sound a bit tubby in the low end to my ears.The MT has more punch and bite not so many overtones in the low end.Like Shaun said...MT2's Ad. will give you even more of that bite than the Eng. MT.

I'd say if you're looking for a gigging mando on a budget get an MT. If you want one for life get the MT2 or MT2 O.Try and get somewhere that you can play an MT,MT O,MT2,MT2 O and A/B them or A/B/C/D them Take the A-4 too!

D2Ha fan, I understand what you are saying about your vintage Gibson, BUT , I would really encourage you to start thinking about it differently. The instrument was meant to be played, and there are a number on people in many crowds that would absolutly LOVE to see and here one of these in person. As time goes on, more and more of these babies will be left in cases at home,and will never be seen by the public. The mojo those old beasts have is great too!At all the Folk Fests I have been to, the only performers I have REALLY wanted to talk to are the ones with the Old axes. If you are just worried about the 'money' aspect of this, and exposing it to people, it has already been said here that there are a large number of folks still playing their Loars out. They just keep them with them for the whole gig! I play my Monteleone out whenever I can, even at old time fiddle jams and such. Tell us what you end up doing OK?

I asked the same question on the forum a few month back and the same advice was givin to me..."Buy a used MT". I did, and I love it. Sounds great, looks great, smells great.

Thanks for all the replies and advice. I agree with Kerry that when I do bring out the A4, folks love it. So perhaps I'll continue to bring it out, but maybe get a used f hole MT as companion to it. Have to get through Christmas bill before getting serious about it though.

I will second the opinion that Kerry presented; play the Gibson. Then, if you want a companion and a different sound, any Collings would be a lovely addition.

Jw/97Taylor, what MT did you get? Oval or f hole etc? I gather there can be gloss tops vs satin etc. Just would be curious as I plan my buying "attack".