1980s Kentucky KM-200 Archtop A-Style Mandolin

Overview: These older, Japanese-made Kentucky mandolins are well-regarded and for good reason -- they have a lot of power, handle nicely when setup well, and are a good, durable, inexpensive option for someone wanting to get into the bluegrassy side of mando playing.

Tone: It's loud, punchy, and very forward. It's not a subtle instrument and it has good pop and power at the expense of velvet in the top and bottom. It's all-mids and up-front -- a great band or jam instrument but not as fun for practicing at home.

Feel: It has a quick, easy neck with a narrower nut width.

Interesting features: The "Sheraton brown" lightly-sunbursted finish always looks good on these old Kentuckys. It's got Gibson-ish features -- an adjustable bridge, tailpiece with cover, and raised pickguard -- but the thicker, poly finish and downmarket tuners are obvious price-point concessions.

Repairs included: I gave it a quick setup and restring. It plays spot-on and is ready to go.

• Weight: 1 lb 14 oz
• Scale length: 13 7/8"
• Nut width: 1 1/8"
• Neck shape: medium soft V
• Board radius: flat
• Body width: 10"
• Body depth: 1 7/8"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: mahogany (ply?)
• Bracing type: tonebar
• Bridge: ebonized rosewood
• Fretboard: rosewood
• Neck wood: mahogany
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 36w-10
• Truss rod: adjustable
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: smaller/lower

Condition notes: There is a "push-in" crack right along the tonebar near the bass-side f-hole's top. It looks like it was glued ages ago and is stable. Because of its placement, there's little to worry about, but it definitely does blemish the look in that area. Otherwise, it's in good order. There is minor fretwear but it does not hurt playability and there are minor scuffs and scratches in the finish throughout but overall it loos nice.

It comes with: It's got a great hard case.

Consignor tag: HKS