2020s Thomann (Hora) Acoustic/Electric Octave Mandolin

Overview: This is a simple, no-frills, octave mandolin made by Hora in Romania for the German retailer Thomann. I've always thought Hora instruments are pretty great deals for their quality level, but like most import-level, cheaper gear, they always need some going-over to make them play their best. In this case it needed fretwork and setup work but now that it's behind us, this instrument plays like a champ.

Tone: It's warm, jangly, and sweet with good sustain. I think this particular instrument is better-suited to backup chordal playing but it can do melody/fill work as well -- but not with the same punch you would get out of a domed-top or arched-top OM. Its factory strings are also on the lighter side and I think it's probably wise to keep them there.

Feel: It's quick and easy with an old-fashioned sort-of neck profile that recalls older mandolas and mandolins (it's not the super-slick/super-narrow Greek zouk-style neck profile).

Interesting features: It has an interesting "aged" look to the finish and I like the nod to Greek-style bouzoukis with its slotted headstock shape.

Repairs included: I gave it a level/dress of the frets and some setup work.

• Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz
• Scale length: 23"
• Nut width: 1 5/16"
• Neck shape: medium C/V
• Board radius: flat
• Body width: 12 1/4"
• Body depth: 3"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: solid maple
• Bracing type: ladder
• Bridge: ebonized maple
• Fretboard: ebonized maple
• Neck wood: maple
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 40w-30w-16-12 or close to it
• Truss rod: adjustable
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: medium-smaller

Condition notes: It's basically new and so in good order. There may be a few light scratches and usemarks here and there but I'm not seeing anything obvious.

It comes with: Sorry, no case.

Consignor tag: SWD