On the bench - new Celtic Mandolin

Oh I do like making Mandolins, I've made quite a few in the last year or so and this is the latest edition to the range. It seems some Celtic players just can't settle for a Mandolin if it isn't shaped like an onion. So this is for them.

The top is Sitka Spruce, the back and sides are fine Quilted American Sugar Maple, the neck is my 1908 vintage Cuban Mahogany and the fretboard and Bridge are Sri Lankan Ebony. I tried several bridges before I settled on this one - the hollowed design of Ebony brings out the best both treble and bass. The treble is bright without being thin, and the bass is full without being muddy. It should cope well in any session.

Despite the instrument being loud and full,I have to say it does not sound as different from my "A" Model (the one shaped like a Shallot) as I thought it might. But this may be down to the fact that whilst the materials and shape may be different, the arching, thicknessing and bracing are very similar.

This little feller will be for sale soon.