Rectangular Presto case

New wedge shaped Presto case.  This model is smaller and lighter, but has less storage space.

Choice of Timbers

Timber choice is up to you, but will depend on what I have available. Each mandolin is constructed with your individual requirements in mind and I can advise on what would best suit your requirements in terms of tonal qualities and oval or F soundholes.

Briefly summarising a complex topic, all the preferred topwoods (European Spruce, Engelmann Spruce, King Billy Pine and Red Spruce) make very fine sounding mandolins, and there is not a huge difference in the final result. If volume and headroom is important, then I would recommend a Spruce top. Red Spruce is probably the most powerful topwood, with European Spruce not far behind, but with a sweet and more even tonal quality.  Choice of timber for the back does not have as much influence as the top, but still does influence the tone of the instrument.

The denser timbers such as Tasmanian Myrtle, Queensland Walnut or Black Walnut have more bass emphasis which gives a warmer tonal quality, but they are often not quite as loud. On the other hand, Tasmanian Blackwood has a typical bright sweet clear midrange and treble which complements the warmer qualities of Engelmann Spruce. Queensland Maple usually makes loud, bright, and extremely resonant and responsive, well balanced instruments, but not as smooth or sweet sounding as Blackwood.

If your choice of topwood is European Spruce, then Tasmanian Myrtle or European Maple in my opinion is really the only choice for the back. This combination makes a really classy sounding mandolin that sounds superior to any vintage Gibson I have ever played.  It is difficult to say what my favourite timbers are that give the "best" tone. What is "best" anyway? Everyone has different tastes.

For more information on woods, go to the publications section.