Number 288 is an archtop guitar-body octave mandolin. The body is padauk (AKA vermilion) and the top is western red cedar, with black trim and a bloodwood fingerboard. Scale length is 552 mm, about 21.7". When I introduced this design at Zoukfest in 2007, players dubbed it a "tune machine", and the nickname is still appropriate. It has a balanced, bright-but-smooth tone and very easy playability. Easy maintenance over the life of the instrument with a removable and adjustable neck joint, stainless steel frets, and modern two-way truss rod. The side port allows you to hear yourself. Excellent for Celtic, classical or song accompaniment. Price includes hard case.

Price: $3900