2015 Gretsch G9300 Archtop A-Style Mandolin

Overview: This is a basic, no-frills, entry-level, A-style, bluegrass-style mandolin with a solid spruce top and better build quality than many of its competitors at the same price. I've been impressed by the Gretsch "folk instrument" offerings of the last 10-15 years, really. They always require a bit of dialing-in to get them to their best but they're mostly well-made and good value.

Tone: It's poppy, forward, and has good cut.

Feel: It feels rather like the Gibson-style mandolins it emulates -- it has a medium soft V neck and flat board.

Interesting features: The sunburst has a folksy, '30s look to it and all of the edges being bound is a nice touch. It's classier than you might expect but friendly in a retro way.

Repairs included: It just needed a quick setup and restring.

• Weight: 1 lb 15 oz
• Scale length: 13 7/8"
• Nut width: 1 1/8"
• Neck shape: medium soft V
• Board radius: flat
• Body width: 10 3/8"
• Body depth: 2"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: probably ply maple
• Bracing type: tonebar
• Bridge: ebony
• Fretboard: rosewood
• Neck wood: probably maple
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 36w-10
• Truss rod: adjustable
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: smaller/narrow

Condition notes: It's in rather good shape with just mild usewear (light scuffs and scratches) throughout. Its original pickguard is missing.

It comes with: It has a nice, foam-style case.

Consignor tag: JW