On a mandolin dealer website I have seen a new Collings MT353 mandolin for sale ($1775). It looks the same as the other A model except for the beautiful non-glossy finish. Is this a new model? Are the numbers 353 the id. number or part of the model number? If any of you have played the MT model, please let me know about the playability and sound. Also, does Collings make other A models other than those listed on their website?

I am a guitar player and am looking for my first mandolin. On the bluegrass models I like everything except the "tinny" sounding trebles. However, I like a deep, woody tone for the bass and mids.

Gee, can you really tell that I don't know anything about mandolins?

Hopefully someone will be able to offer me some input.

Thanks,

Frank

Hi,
Collings offers 2 standard A mandolins. From my understanding, there is an MT and an MT 2. The MT 2 is fully bound and has a gloss laquer finish. The new MT is a matte finish with the top bound only. Same basic construction (flawless from Collings of course). They are offering the same 2 types of models in the F style. I have owned one of the F models and currently own an MT2. I believe custom orders are available for colors or trim. I have seen a blonde one before. The great thing is that Collings collaborated with the maker of Nugget mandolins on the design of all of them. For the price, they are fantastic instruments.
Comparing the F to the A, the A has a more full sound to me. The trebles are a bit mellower than the F. But, either way they fit with just about any style.
I think the 353 is the serial number. My MT2 is 106. It is for sale if you are interested. You can see the picture on the mandolin cafe classifieds. You can also get more advice on mandolin sounds and style there. Great site for mandolins. Hope it helps.

Steve

Steve,

Thanks for the reply. Your's is a very nice looking mando. I believe that I prefer the more mellow sounding trebles and full sound. I don't want one that sounds too bluegrassy.

Frank