KM-270 Deluxe Oval Hole A-Style Mandolin

I was surprised to find a run of good quality Kentucky mandolins here. For the price this is a really, really good instrument if you are an entry level or intermediate player. It's made in China but that's become the norm and doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality. From a quality stand point this is a night and day difference compared to the cheaper Gretsch I'd been playing on. Pros: - Beautiful lacquered sunburst finish that really shines with that great Kentucky stamping on the headstock. - Carved sitka top with a radiused fretboard. - Really good rich sound without any of the "tinny" sound I'd heard on lower quality mandolins I've tried. - String spacing seems slightly more playable than some of the other models I've tried despite having the same standard nut width Cons: - Does not come set up, which I expected but is not specified in the description. It came with D'addario strings attached but hanging loosely and the bridge being held loosely. If you aren't comfortable with setting up your own you'll want to take it into your local music shop and let a pro handle it. - Had a couple small scratches on the pickguard already. Not a huge deal but slightly annoying considering it's a brand new instrument. Overall I am thrilled with this mandolin especially considering I was able to purchase it on sale.