As someone who purchased an Epiphone a style for $70 I totally agree that the best mandolin you can get is the one that lets you play mandolin the most
I've played guitar for many years and have enjoyed the tone of the mandolin. To my ear I found the F style to be more of a mellow sound with slightly more sustain. The A style seems brighter, especially in the higher notes. Looking forward to your contest information and beginning lessons since I finally just subscribed.
Learning to play the mandolin was something I wanted to do as a kid. I'm now 24 and the inspiration came back to me when I started to listen to Nickel Creek. A few months ago I came across your video of the best mandolin for beginners. Since then, I've been wanting to purchase that Loar Honey Creek in the F style but never had the extra hundred dollars for it.
I love your videos, and I love the way you are clear and up front about how the compensation works - which I think is fair, and shouldn’t be a detractor - complainers about that reality are something I won’t say, because I’m not trying to make enemies or attack, but your model is as fair and reasonable as any I can imagine. I came to this site for that very comparison (as a check to myself; I already have an Ellis F5 and other nice mandolins); and because I know you are fair. I love that you encourage people to get an F style if it’s what they want, even though it’s not your style. It’s silly to pretend that aesthetics are an inappropriate criteria for instrument choice, and it’s wonderful that you articulate why it’s advantageous to go a different route, but don’t insist that aesthetics are a bad criteria. I’m grateful for your content and contribution! Your videos are top notch!
My f-style Loar Honeycreek just arrived today - perfect timing! It's a beautiful instrument, perfect for me picking the mandolin back up after 15 years since I last played. Great video!
@@Billkwando thanks Bill! Your videos are some of those I came across when I researching the Loar before I bought it. I used the one on repositioning the bridge when mine arrived - thanks for your help!
This is the singular best comparison of an instrument I have seen on you tube. I can't believe that you just wanted to let us hear the mandolins as opposed to showing us how good a player you are (and your good)! Thanks.
I love the sound of both, I felt the f style was more melodic but I agree that A style speaks to me. As someone learning mandolin now I am very appreciative of all this
I would recommend to anyone getting a Loar mandolin to get a Cumberland bridge. I did a tutorial type thing on how to fit the bridge to the top properly. It made it maybe twice as loud. A Tone Gard and armrest are nice as well. You can make your own armrest out of a piece of wood and the clamp for a violin chin rest.
@Billwando.... Hi, and thank you so much for the Cumberland "heads up". I looked up their website right after reading this, about 20 minutes ago... and as soon as I reply this back to you, I will be on the phone to order the Full contact bridge, the double action Truss rod, arm rest, and the Abbreviated F9 Pick Guard... also, Thanks again & have a great weekend.
@@Romans--bo7br Don't forget your Tone Gard! LOL I bought my pickguard over at Bezostown, if you know what I mean. "Golden Gate M-401A F-Model Mandolin Pickguard Assembly - Black/White/Black " It was like $35.
@@Billkwando... Hello again, Bill. Actually, I Did order the "Tone Gard" as well, along with everything else I mentioned. As far as the Truss rods, Yes.... "surgery". I Much prefer the "Double action" (twin rods) rods, over the single for several reasons... and I especially like Cumberland's road sets, that are made from Cold rolled steel, "sleeved" and solid brass ends... "if you're going to do it... Do it, Right".... they've certainly "done it right". Need to go finish up a guitar (electric bass) project in my basement/shop for a friend of mine before it gets any later, today. Thanks for your reply's.... and have a great weekend if I don't hear back from you again. : )
@@Romans--bo7br So you're really going to pull the fingerboard off the mandolin and install a new truss rod? Crazy, man. The neck is only 2 inches long, how much adjusting could it need? LOL You have to put this on TH-cam. Like putting a Tesla engine in a Volkswagen Beetle. Why not?
My greatgrandfather played 1920's bowl back and wish I could have heard him play. But I bought a lower end a style. And watching your videos learned how to make it play better and get more enjoyment from it.
Another thing to keep in mind (for me) is that I feel if you were to do that test with some higher-end mandolins, such as even Eastmans (which have their naming system code: MD XYZ, where X is the series; Y is 0 for an A-style and 1 for an F-style; and Z is 4 for an oval hole and 5 for an f-hole) and you compare the same series A vs. F (for example, even with the starter series MD 305 vs. MD 315), you are more likely to notice a tonal difference.
I just picked up a Loar LM 520 today which is a step from these. I sat and played all the As and the F LM520 was the only F in the bunch and it sounded noticeably warmer and mellower which pleased me.
Check out their guitars, too. I really like the 529 - it's a carved archtop with a P-90 - strung over a bridge to pull on the tailpiece and press on the sound board like a violin or mandolin - this makes for an incredibly efficient way to produce loud, cutting tone with surprisingly low string tensions and stable tuning.
I agree with your statement that "if the beauty of the F-style makes you want to play more often, then go for it!" I might add a second consideration: I find the A-style harder to keep on my lap in position because of the body shape. At least with the points of the F-style, it is better anchored.
I had a moment of terrible timing a couple of years back. I’d sold my mando due to arthritis and thinking I couldn’t play. Immediately (2 days later) I got a call asking if I could play an event. So I raced out and bought a new mando. I got an A style. I’d always used either A style or bowl back so it was my go to. There was an issue with that particular instrument so I took it back. They didn’t have another of that one in an A and I ended up, reluctantly, leaving with an f style. I doubt I will ever go back! It may be this particular mando or maybe I just love the look and feel of it, but I do believe in general they sound a bit richer in tone. Just my opinion. But A styles have a gorgeous simplicity to them as well..
To my ears, the F-style seemed to sound better in the lower register, a more mellow timbre. Whereas the A-style is crisper and cleaner in the higher register. I think they would complement each other really well, much like how Mandolize use one of each in their Lateralus cover on TH-cam
I wanted to get that very same A style, but they weren't in stock. One day, I went to the local Guitar Center, saw a used 310, played a couple of tunes, and I wanted it. It was priced at $299.00, and I found out that I could trade it in. It turned out that there was a waiting period for the used one, but a new one was in stock. With the trade-in, and 10% discount on trades, it was only a $30.00 difference. I'm satisfied....
I'm learning to build mandolins, & after studying their construction, all the extra body parts on an F are just there for looks, they're all filled with solid chunks of wood, the resonation chamber (the hollow part), is shaped exactly the same, so they sound pretty much the same... people like the fancier looking F bodies more because they're more pleasing to the eye, so they tend to think they sound better, even though they sound pretty much the same...mandos from different manufacturers sound different because of the materials & build quality, but there's not much, if any, difference in the sound of F vs A... unless you have one of each from a different manufacturer...or a higher end model vs a lower end model, you may hear a difference then, but same manufacturer, same quality level, there won't be much, if any, difference...
There is certainly a slight tonal difference I would say. However, there is a significant aesthetic difference, which I think is extremely important. There is a whole lot to be said for having the instrument you want and that inspires you. Personally, if I were to buy an A style, every time I’d look at it or pick it up to play I would wish I had an F style. That’s worth a few hundred dollars more in my opinion, and it would probably have a positive impact on my commitment to playing.
I am a total beginner and have an Astyle. I do love the look of the F though. Love the comparison. Both sound great. Little to no difference that I could hear.
Great video, thanks. My first mandolin was an A-style, and I ended up never playing it and sold it without really getting into the mandolin. When I re-started again, I'd kind of decided that it was the shape that made a difference, so I started with an F, and that kind of stuck, but the more I played, and after getting an A for backup and camps/travel, I gradually realized I was picking up the A more than the F! I don't know why, but, the short story is I now have 2 As, and one is an Ellis! (This channel may bear some responsibility! ;))
I did notice a slightly softer tone from the F style. Thanks for doing the video, It was very informative. I bought a Greg Bennett ma-1/vs mandolin and I am slowly learning to play it.
Very interesting comparison. I did hear a difference. I like them both! I have a Johnson MA-115-E. I found it cheap on marketplace last year. It's an A style. I love it! I really have gotten into it. I wouldn't mind trying out an F style though.
I like the mellower sound of the F better (I have an F style Loar) - I suspect it comes from my background as a guitar folk-style fingerpicker. I’m always drawn to the lower tonal response instead of the brightness of the A style. However, that same brightness seems to be a sought-after characteristic of the mandolin in general.
Like you, I prefer the look of the A style, so the fact that it costs less is just a bonus! Of the two you're holding here, I would definitely get the A style...
I think the biggest mistake people make is saying “oh I like this one and hate that one”. They’re just different; I can’t honestly say one is better than the other. I do like the look/sound of F and that’s what I play. I also LOVE the look/sound of A and own one because I like the variation.
Thanks very much that was really informative. i agree with most of the comments about the difference in sound. I play A style mandolin. I would be interested to hear how the 2 styles of mandolin varied in terms of comfort to play, weight etc.
Thanks for this! This is probably the closest comparison that could be done. It's certainly the closest I think I've seen. To my ears, the shape of the hole makes more of a sound difference than the shape of the instrument. That being said, I'm fortunate to have a couple A-styles and an F-style, so I'm covered.
@@Billkwando Yes, the other often compared element is the oval vs f-hole and to me that makes more of a difference than the shape of the instrument. Sorry, I wasn't clear on that.
Hi Baron,greetings from Maine, I have both of them,I find the A style more mellow and woody sounding. The F style has the clearest e string of all my mandolins but I find the low end to be a bit boxy sounding,maybe just needs more time.I do tend to reach for the A style,I play mostly Irish tunes .
I have tinnitus and I noticed a difference. The F style sounds a bit softer to me. I bought an A cause it was cheaper and I didn’t know how much I would end up playing it, I have other stringed instruments as well. FYI I am playing it a lot. 😊 Sharing what I’ve learned from open mic’s, playing different stringed instruments, the audience probably doesn’t really care, in the end it’s how did your music move them.
I got into mandolins via an interest in renaissance cittern music, and a mandolin was the cheapest and closest type of instrument. I now have 4 A-styles w round hole and love them
To my untrained ear, the difference in sound is almost undetectable. I'm planning on building a Mandolin so my first one will be an A type simply because I won't have to deal with the fancy shape of the F style. Excellent comparison. Thank you very much.👍👍
I've been hunting for a good mandolin that I won't need to upgrade once I get to intermediate playing. I'll definitely be grabbing one of these mandolins. They seem like great mandolins that don't need to be upgraded once you start playing with people. I grew up playing bass and the difference from a $150 bass to $500 is substantial. This mandolin seems like a great beginniner instrument but can work for when you really learn the instrument. It sounds great
Tough call, I love the look of the f style. But own the A style Loar (after your review and recommendation)- because I’m on holiday budget. As a viola and guitar player who is new to mandolin-I understand so many factors impact sound. Regardless, I am glad your channel was recommended to me.
Thank you!🤓👍✨ Great comparison!🎉👏👌Please tell me, does the sound hole affect the tone of the instrument? Will there be a difference in tone between the oval hole and the f-holes? I'm specifically interested in the case of the A-style mandolin)👀🤠🤔
I found a slightly more mellowness to the F style, but I really like the shape of the A style. I like the lute which is a teardrop shape and that is probably why I like the A style better. Thank you for the video demonstrating the difference between the two mandolin styles. 🫶🏼
Great comparison. One thing you didn't mention about these two instruments is that the bodies are made of the same wood, also. So same construction other than the style. Also, as I understand it, the higher cost of the F-style is partly due to the extra work to build them. I have entered the contest to win and now I know which one I want! 😀
Thanks a lot for this very interesting video! As far as I’m concerned, I definitely prefer the A style, for the look and the sound. The F style sound is more clear and "sophisticated" and is really appropriate for bluegrass music. The A style sound is more "rough" and is perfect for Irish music. And my style is much more Irish jigs than bluegrass music!
Great vid ,thank you, i did learn already a lot from your videos n im an A style man too all the way altough here the F sounds more gentle. Im also very curious about this give away happening . Greetings
Great video, I also thought the F-style had more resonance and the A-style was more punchy clear. Question: What is the song you are playing, I really liked it.
I find the A style has more rounded out bottom end, bit nothing beats the look of that F. Once jamming I doubt you'd notice much difference in the mix, so in that case the F is the winner for me. I'm hearing mixed reviews on the Loar straight out of the box too, but I'm still leaning towards saving up for that F-style for myself. Great review to hear both of these same level mandolins back to back. Thanks!
Hey, if it helps I’d urge you to save just a little more and get an Eastman MD315. I bought the f-style Loar and had a bad experience. Very plastic appearance due to the laminate back/sides/neck/headstock and the sound was very poor. Next to no volume on the higher strings and a harsh sound overall - again, the laminate wood is a serious hindrance. I replaced it quite quickly with the Eastman and they’re like night and day - the Eastman is worth every extra penny and will last you much longer.
@@Mandolin_Matt - Hey Matt, I really appreciate you taking the time to talk about your experience with your Loar and give some solid criticism and a warning. I'm not sure why I didn't get a notification that you commented to me, but this video came back in my feed for some reason and I noticed you replied... so here I am replying back... finally. I've moved on from the idea of getting this lower end Loar. The next model up (LM590) is solid carved top, back, and sides, and is something of a step up so I'm considering that model now. Trust me, I've been wanting an MD315 for several years now, but I also want something that's electric as well. I know the MD315 now comes in an electric version, but I live in Canada and the cheapest I've seen it is $1528.44 CAD. That's before shipping, taxes, and duty/import fees. So after that's all done I'd imagine it's going to be up around $1750.00 or so. That's just insane for a 'good' beginner mandolin, and I simply can't justify that amount of money right now, even if I could find somewhere that offered a payment plan. 🙁 I could grab the Loar lm590 electric/acoustic for $450.00 cheaper before shipping/import/tax/duties. I'm still very much on the fence because even that's a large chunk of change for an instrument I'll mostly be playing by myself, and maybe the odd time around a campfire. Nothing has come down in price since the Covid hike price scam that every company in the world seems to have taken advantage of. Super frustrating. *raises fist to sky and shakes it defiantly*
I'm lucky enough to have one of each, a Kentucky 150 A style and A Loar 600 F style. The Kentucky was bought new about 3 years ago and the The Loar was bought second hand earlier this year. The Kentucky is a bit "brighter" maybe while The Loar is perhaps "warmer" and maybe "smoother". F style seems to be a bit rarer here in the UK. I like them both, if I could justify a dream, that is expensive Mando, I think I'd go for an A style because you get more bang for your buck.
I felt the A Style was a little brighter, which draws me closer to the F style. I am intrigued by Octave Mando. I would probably also enjoy a deeper bowl-back O-Hole. I have no negativity toward any style of Mando. I have a nice F Style Mando but I would like a beater to take out and for that I might want a bowl back a-style. What do you feel gives the richest deepest tone and not a tinny sound? I am only now preparing my learning journey.
I have surprised myself ! I guess I always just had it in my head, that an " F " would sound better ? But what I heard here, was for me, the " A " sounded all around better ! First thing I heard with the " F ", was it's sound was a bit flat, for lack of a better term. The " A " just sounded more uniform to my ear. It seemed to modulate all the various Frequencies better ! Now I'll finish watching the video !
A great comparison and I listened a second time but closed my eyes and could pick out the slightly softer tone of the F. But I didn't always get it right. I played a bit, way back in the 70/80s then stopped with family to bring up. I've got back to it and as I play by memory I've struggled a bit but getting there. You probably won't know the model I have (it's an Artist. Cost me £60 sterling, and I fitted an e-pickup system to it). The F looks great and I'd say that's it's only plus. I'll stick with you and maybe learn something. As they say over this side of the pond. Every day's a school day.
Of course, they both sound very similar, as the two "styles" are just cosmetically different. The sound generating parts are pretty much the same. Some think the "f" style looks fancier. Personally, I think they look weird and cumbersome. I prefer "a"style, but its just what you like the look of really....
I am probably too stupid so forgive me. A or F... when I can play something with some authority, I will consider the question. I have know some somewhat famous musicians who played various cheap instruments and honed their skills then the moved to a nicer one. I thank you Baron for helping learn a little.
More harmonic content and perceived midrange depth in that F compared to that A. Fuller sound, may be harder to tame with an EQ in a mix. But it's tough to try to arrange a piece where the mandolin doesn't do its job of being heard.
I was concerned the F style would be 15 frets to the body vs 12 for the A style, but they're both 12, so nice control there, too. Great video as usual!
I listened without watching. It sounded like the same instrument throughout the tune. Maybe my ear is less discerning than some folks, but I really couldn't hear a difference. Thanks for such an interesting demonstration!
I like the F style (and have a F style Loar) but as I learn more Irish tunes and hopes to play in some Irish sessions I might want an A style for that setting.
16th subscriber LIKE; 153rd view. One of my mandolins is an A-style just like the one in this comparison - although I had a deer antler saddle installed on the bridge, and use the EJ74s. Also - like I see on some of yours, I've installed rubber grommets between the pairs of strings, half-way between the bridge & tail-piece. Thanks for this video. To these old-guy ears, the F-style is noticeably brighter, which may be why it's the choice for Bluegrass players.
I thought the F-style sounded better all round. But I’m rather biased as I have The Loar F-style and I love it. I have tried other mandolins around the same price but I always come back to The Loar.
The F style had more sustain when you played the scale. A models are brighter. I played an A style Kentucky for years, and people were always telling me what nice tone it made.
The A style rang like a bell. The F style might be better at fighting feedback with a pickup since it was quieter and less sustaining. I have an old A style but I’d like to find an F style that’s sturdier for gigging.
Wow this video rocks. The a is so much more irish sounding, if that makes sense. you really hear the jig.. the A is richer. The F is cleaner, definitely has a more bluegrass sounds If that makes sense. Ill def be getting the for that reason. But maybe one day ill have both
"The F is cleaner, definitely has a more bluegrass sounds If that makes sense." Thank you for expressing what my untrained ear heard but could not describe. I began mandolin lessons last month, so I would have described the F sound as more of a twang (yes, I have yet to develop the vernacular of musicians) that one would hear in country music. Bluegrass describes it perfectly. I recall the sound of those who gathered round the town square in Mountain View, Arkansas playing bluegrass with banjos and instruments of that ilk. Being Irish and hearing listening to that music often, I agree, too, with your "Irish sounding" description of the A.
I honestly like to know why many tailpieces are not centered on the body. I understand the strings should line up with the fretboard, but really you would think in this day of technology, these mandolins could be a bit more precise.
From what I heard, the F style has a slightly deeper lower end and a thinner top end compared to the A style I would buy the A style,, Thanks for the chance to hear the diff !
From what I could hear on this vid, the A seemed a warmer tone and the F a little sharper. Very close though...my uncle had an old Gibson A style, a black one from the 30's. Wish I knew where it ended up.
My only issue with F style is a status thing, I feel like A style better represents the type of music I would be playing. I'm sure F style is wonderful but I won't buy one. Years ago I owned a Jethro Burns bullhorn style with the double points, and oval soundhole, but ended up selling it. Not my style either. A styles can be frying pan, pear shaped or the modern teardrop shaped, or even the original bowlback also fits somewhere into this category.
There is a slight difference between the two. Of course, the bigger difference is A style oval v. F style f hole. I have a 1924 A Jr oval and it's a completely different sound than either of these.
To me, the F style sounds more 'American' (I'm English). It makes everything sound more bluegrassy. The A style sounds a bit cleaner. The F style seems to reverberate more than the A causing undamped strings to ring.
They both sound like mandolins. The A has a bit more midrange bite. That could just be the specific instruments though. FWIW, if you're recording /anything/ that doesn't have bass frequencies (i.e., most sources) then definitely set the switch to roll off the bass, because it will only add mud if you don't.
I completed ALL the actions for the give-away but instead of a "continuation" button, I hit a wall with just a logout option. I hope my points were saved!
Age makes a big difference. An older mandolin will sound more mellow than a newer one. Bowl backed mandolins sound different. The A style vs. F style is hard to detect. I have noticed that strings make a big difference.
luv'd this excellent demo. evr since attending an auditory perception lecture in college i have been fascinated with side-by-side comparisons and convinced that we see and hear what we expect to see and hear based on our expectation... but for the record, the 'A' style sounded more mellow and somehow prettier? to me anywayz :) (edit:) if that little pointy-thing on the bottom helps keep the mando from slipping around in ur lap... that right ther mite be worth the price of admission?
As someone who purchased an Epiphone a style for $70 I totally agree that the best mandolin you can get is the one that lets you play mandolin the most
I've played guitar for many years and have enjoyed the tone of the mandolin. To my ear I found the F style to be more of a mellow sound with slightly more sustain. The A style seems brighter, especially in the higher notes.
Looking forward to your contest information and beginning lessons since I finally just subscribed.
Learning to play the mandolin was something I wanted to do as a kid. I'm now 24 and the inspiration came back to me when I started to listen to Nickel Creek. A few months ago I came across your video of the best mandolin for beginners. Since then, I've been wanting to purchase that Loar Honey Creek in the F style but never had the extra hundred dollars for it.
You can finance instruments at your local music store. You pay a small amount each month.
This is one of the best A vs F comparison videos I have seen. You controlled the variables so perfectly.
I agree 🤩
Surprisingly, I thought there was more sustain and richness in the F. Wonderful video. Thank you. .
I love your videos, and I love the way you are clear and up front about how the compensation works - which I think is fair, and shouldn’t be a detractor - complainers about that reality are something I won’t say, because I’m not trying to make enemies or attack, but your model is as fair and reasonable as any I can imagine. I came to this site for that very comparison (as a check to myself; I already have an Ellis F5 and other nice mandolins); and because I know you are fair. I love that you encourage people to get an F style if it’s what they want, even though it’s not your style. It’s silly to pretend that aesthetics are an inappropriate criteria for instrument choice, and it’s wonderful that you articulate why it’s advantageous to go a different route, but don’t insist that aesthetics are a bad criteria. I’m grateful for your content and contribution! Your videos are top notch!
My f-style Loar Honeycreek just arrived today - perfect timing! It's a beautiful instrument, perfect for me picking the mandolin back up after 15 years since I last played. Great video!
I made a video putting JJB pickups in mine, with an end pin jack. It's pretty easy.
@@Billkwando thanks Bill! Your videos are some of those I came across when I researching the Loar before I bought it. I used the one on repositioning the bridge when mine arrived - thanks for your help!
@@Mandolin_Matt Yay! I'm glad I could help! 😁
This is the singular best comparison of an instrument I have seen on you tube. I can't believe that you just wanted to let us hear the mandolins as opposed to showing us how good a player you are (and your good)! Thanks.
I love the sound of both, I felt the f style was more melodic but I agree that A style speaks to me. As someone learning mandolin now I am very appreciative of all this
I would recommend to anyone getting a Loar mandolin to get a Cumberland bridge. I did a tutorial type thing on how to fit the bridge to the top properly. It made it maybe twice as loud. A Tone Gard and armrest are nice as well. You can make your own armrest out of a piece of wood and the clamp for a violin chin rest.
@Billwando.... Hi, and thank you so much for the Cumberland "heads up". I looked up their website right after reading this, about 20 minutes ago... and as soon as I reply this back to you, I will be on the phone to order the Full contact bridge, the double action Truss rod, arm rest, and the Abbreviated F9 Pick Guard... also, Thanks again & have a great weekend.
@@Romans--bo7br Don't forget your Tone Gard! LOL
I bought my pickguard over at Bezostown, if you know what I mean. "Golden Gate M-401A F-Model Mandolin Pickguard Assembly - Black/White/Black " It was like $35.
@@Romans--bo7br Why are you ordering a truss rod? You planning on doing some surgery?
@@Billkwando... Hello again, Bill. Actually, I Did order the "Tone Gard" as well, along with everything else I mentioned. As far as the Truss rods, Yes.... "surgery". I Much prefer the "Double action" (twin rods) rods, over the single for several reasons... and I especially like Cumberland's road sets, that are made from Cold rolled steel, "sleeved" and solid brass ends... "if you're going to do it... Do it, Right".... they've certainly "done it right".
Need to go finish up a guitar (electric bass) project in my basement/shop for a friend of mine before it gets any later, today. Thanks for your reply's.... and have a great weekend if I don't hear back from you again. : )
@@Romans--bo7br So you're really going to pull the fingerboard off the mandolin and install a new truss rod? Crazy, man. The neck is only 2 inches long, how much adjusting could it need? LOL You have to put this on TH-cam. Like putting a Tesla engine in a Volkswagen Beetle. Why not?
My greatgrandfather played 1920's bowl back and wish I could have heard him play. But I bought a lower end a style. And watching your videos learned how to make it play better and get more enjoyment from it.
Another thing to keep in mind (for me) is that I feel if you were to do that test with some higher-end mandolins, such as even Eastmans (which have their naming system code: MD XYZ, where X is the series; Y is 0 for an A-style and 1 for an F-style; and Z is 4 for an oval hole and 5 for an f-hole) and you compare the same series A vs. F (for example, even with the starter series MD 305 vs. MD 315), you are more likely to notice a tonal difference.
I just picked up a Loar LM 520 today which is a step from these. I sat and played all the As and the F LM520 was the only F in the bunch and it sounded noticeably warmer and mellower which pleased me.
Check out their guitars, too. I really like the 529 - it's a carved archtop with a P-90 - strung over a bridge to pull on the tailpiece and press on the sound board like a violin or mandolin - this makes for an incredibly efficient way to produce loud, cutting tone with surprisingly low string tensions and stable tuning.
I played an A style for years. I finally saved up to get an F style, and although they look really cool, the A style is brighter.
Agreed the A style really has beautiful chime wow for me it's not even close which I prefer glad my A is on it's way !
I'm watching this video because google says the f style is brighter haha. Guess it's subjective to the instrument.
I agree with your statement that "if the beauty of the F-style makes you want to play more often, then go for it!" I might add a second consideration: I find the A-style harder to keep on my lap in position because of the body shape. At least with the points of the F-style, it is better anchored.
I think both styles work much better if you use a strap - even if you are sitting down.
I had a moment of terrible timing a couple of years back. I’d sold my mando due to arthritis and thinking I couldn’t play. Immediately (2 days later) I got a call asking if I could play an event. So I raced out and bought a new mando. I got an A style. I’d always used either A style or bowl back so it was my go to. There was an issue with that particular instrument so I took it back. They didn’t have another of that one in an A and I ended up, reluctantly, leaving with an f style. I doubt I will ever go back! It may be this particular mando or maybe I just love the look and feel of it, but I do believe in general they sound a bit richer in tone. Just my opinion. But A styles have a gorgeous simplicity to them as well..
Sounds wonderful. I liked the A style! I love the simplicity! Cynthia
To my ears, the F-style seemed to sound better in the lower register, a more mellow timbre. Whereas the A-style is crisper and cleaner in the higher register. I think they would complement each other really well, much like how Mandolize use one of each in their Lateralus cover on TH-cam
Yeah, to me it sounded warmer and maybe quieter?
I wanted to get that very same A style, but they weren't in stock. One day, I went to the local Guitar Center, saw a used 310, played a couple of tunes, and I wanted it. It was priced at $299.00, and I found out that I could trade it in. It turned out that there was a waiting period for the used one, but a new one was in stock. With the trade-in, and 10% discount on trades, it was only a $30.00 difference. I'm satisfied....
I'm learning to build mandolins, & after studying their construction, all the extra body parts on an F are just there for looks, they're all filled with solid chunks of wood, the resonation chamber (the hollow part), is shaped exactly the same, so they sound pretty much the same... people like the fancier looking F bodies more because they're more pleasing to the eye, so they tend to think they sound better, even though they sound pretty much the same...mandos from different manufacturers sound different because of the materials & build quality, but there's not much, if any, difference in the sound of F vs A... unless you have one of each from a different manufacturer...or a higher end model vs a lower end model, you may hear a difference then, but same manufacturer, same quality level, there won't be much, if any, difference...
There is certainly a slight tonal difference I would say. However, there is a significant aesthetic difference, which I think is extremely important. There is a whole lot to be said for having the instrument you want and that inspires you. Personally, if I were to buy an A style, every time I’d look at it or pick it up to play I would wish I had an F style. That’s worth a few hundred dollars more in my opinion, and it would probably have a positive impact on my commitment to playing.
I am a total beginner and have an Astyle. I do love the look of the F though. Love the comparison. Both sound great. Little to no difference that I could hear.
Great video, thanks. My first mandolin was an A-style, and I ended up never playing it and sold it without really getting into the mandolin. When I re-started again, I'd kind of decided that it was the shape that made a difference, so I started with an F, and that kind of stuck, but the more I played, and after getting an A for backup and camps/travel, I gradually realized I was picking up the A more than the F! I don't know why, but, the short story is I now have 2 As, and one is an Ellis! (This channel may bear some responsibility! ;))
I did notice a slightly softer tone from the F style. Thanks for doing the video, It was very informative. I bought a Greg Bennett ma-1/vs mandolin and I am slowly learning to play it.
Very interesting comparison. I did hear a difference. I like them both! I have a Johnson MA-115-E. I found it cheap on marketplace last year. It's an A style. I love it! I really have gotten into it. I wouldn't mind trying out an F style though.
What was that tune you played for the demo?
I think it was "Shove the Pig's Foot".
I like the mellower sound of the F better (I have an F style Loar) - I suspect it comes from my background as a guitar folk-style fingerpicker. I’m always drawn to the lower tonal response instead of the brightness of the A style. However, that same brightness seems to be a sought-after characteristic of the mandolin in general.
I personally like the F5. I just purchased an A style. Love them both!!
Like you, I prefer the look of the A style, so the fact that it costs less is just a bonus! Of the two you're holding here, I would definitely get the A style...
I think the biggest mistake people make is saying “oh I like this one and hate that one”. They’re just different; I can’t honestly say one is better than the other. I do like the look/sound of F and that’s what I play. I also LOVE the look/sound of A and own one because I like the variation.
Thanks very much that was really informative. i agree with most of the comments about the difference in sound. I play A style mandolin. I would be interested to hear how the 2 styles of mandolin varied in terms of comfort to play, weight etc.
Thanks for this! This is probably the closest comparison that could be done. It's certainly the closest I think I've seen. To my ears, the shape of the hole makes more of a sound difference than the shape of the instrument. That being said, I'm fortunate to have a couple A-styles and an F-style, so I'm covered.
but the shape of the hole is the same on both?
@@Billkwando Yes, the other often compared element is the oval vs f-hole and to me that makes more of a difference than the shape of the instrument. Sorry, I wasn't clear on that.
Hi Baron,greetings from Maine, I have both of them,I find the A style more mellow and woody sounding. The F style has the clearest e string of all my mandolins but I find the low end to be a bit boxy sounding,maybe just needs more time.I do tend to reach for the A style,I play mostly Irish tunes .
Thanks for the comparison. As a o player I didn't hear an appreciable difference in the tone but thought the first held the sound a little longer.
That should red non player
I have tinnitus and I noticed a difference. The F style sounds a bit softer to me. I bought an A cause it was cheaper and I didn’t know how much I would end up playing it, I have other stringed instruments as well. FYI I am playing it a lot. 😊 Sharing what I’ve learned from open mic’s, playing different stringed instruments, the audience probably doesn’t really care, in the end it’s how did your music move them.
I got into mandolins via an interest in renaissance cittern music, and a mandolin was the cheapest and closest type of instrument. I now have 4 A-styles w round hole and love them
To my untrained ear, the difference in sound is almost undetectable. I'm planning on building a Mandolin so my first one will be an A type simply because I won't have to deal with the fancy shape of the F style.
Excellent comparison. Thank you very much.👍👍
I've been hunting for a good mandolin that I won't need to upgrade once I get to intermediate playing. I'll definitely be grabbing one of these mandolins. They seem like great mandolins that don't need to be upgraded once you start playing with people. I grew up playing bass and the difference from a $150 bass to $500 is substantial. This mandolin seems like a great beginniner instrument but can work for when you really learn the instrument. It sounds great
I own both, an A and an F. Love them both
Tough call, I love the look of the f style. But own the A style Loar (after your review and recommendation)- because I’m on holiday budget. As a viola and guitar player who is new to mandolin-I understand so many factors impact sound. Regardless, I am glad your channel was recommended to me.
Thank you!🤓👍✨ Great comparison!🎉👏👌Please tell me, does the sound hole affect the tone of the instrument? Will there be a difference in tone between the oval hole and the f-holes? I'm specifically interested in the case of the A-style mandolin)👀🤠🤔
I found a slightly more mellowness to the F style, but I really like the shape of the A style. I like the lute which is a teardrop shape and that is probably why I like the A style better. Thank you for the video demonstrating the difference between the two mandolin styles. 🫶🏼
Great comparison. One thing you didn't mention about these two instruments is that the bodies are made of the same wood, also. So same construction other than the style. Also, as I understand it, the higher cost of the F-style is partly due to the extra work to build them.
I have entered the contest to win and now I know which one I want! 😀
Thanks a lot for this very interesting video! As far as I’m concerned, I definitely prefer the A style, for the look and the sound. The F style sound is more clear and "sophisticated" and is really appropriate for bluegrass music. The A style sound is more "rough" and is perfect for Irish music. And my style is much more Irish jigs than bluegrass music!
Great vid ,thank you, i did learn already a lot from your videos n im an A style man too all the way altough here the F sounds more gentle. Im also very curious about this give away happening . Greetings
Great video, I also thought the F-style had more resonance and the A-style was more punchy clear. Question: What is the song you are playing, I really liked it.
What song were you playing around the 6-minute mark?
My main mandolin is a Martin can't top A from 1961 .Love it even though it has ebony nut and bridge. Not punchy!like these two but she is my girl!
I find the A style has more rounded out bottom end, bit nothing beats the look of that F. Once jamming I doubt you'd notice much difference in the mix, so in that case the F is the winner for me. I'm hearing mixed reviews on the Loar straight out of the box too, but I'm still leaning towards saving up for that F-style for myself. Great review to hear both of these same level mandolins back to back. Thanks!
Hey, if it helps I’d urge you to save just a little more and get an Eastman MD315. I bought the f-style Loar and had a bad experience. Very plastic appearance due to the laminate back/sides/neck/headstock and the sound was very poor. Next to no volume on the higher strings and a harsh sound overall - again, the laminate wood is a serious hindrance. I replaced it quite quickly with the Eastman and they’re like night and day - the Eastman is worth every extra penny and will last you much longer.
@@Mandolin_Matt - Hey Matt, I really appreciate you taking the time to talk about your experience with your Loar and give some solid criticism and a warning. I'm not sure why I didn't get a notification that you commented to me, but this video came back in my feed for some reason and I noticed you replied... so here I am replying back... finally. I've moved on from the idea of getting this lower end Loar. The next model up (LM590) is solid carved top, back, and sides, and is something of a step up so I'm considering that model now. Trust me, I've been wanting an MD315 for several years now, but I also want something that's electric as well. I know the MD315 now comes in an electric version, but I live in Canada and the cheapest I've seen it is $1528.44 CAD. That's before shipping, taxes, and duty/import fees. So after that's all done I'd imagine it's going to be up around $1750.00 or so. That's just insane for a 'good' beginner mandolin, and I simply can't justify that amount of money right now, even if I could find somewhere that offered a payment plan. 🙁 I could grab the Loar lm590 electric/acoustic for $450.00 cheaper before shipping/import/tax/duties.
I'm still very much on the fence because even that's a large chunk of change for an instrument I'll mostly be playing by myself, and maybe the odd time around a campfire. Nothing has come down in price since the Covid hike price scam that every company in the world seems to have taken advantage of. Super frustrating. *raises fist to sky and shakes it defiantly*
I'm lucky enough to have one of each, a Kentucky 150 A style and A Loar 600 F style. The Kentucky was bought new about 3 years ago and the The Loar was bought second hand earlier this year. The Kentucky is a bit "brighter" maybe while The Loar is perhaps "warmer" and maybe "smoother". F style seems to be a bit rarer here in the UK. I like them both, if I could justify a dream, that is expensive Mando, I think I'd go for an A style because you get more bang for your buck.
They sound for me 99'8 % the same! Thank you!
A all the way ! But yeah the F really is a beautifully shaped instrument incredible side by side comparison thank you Sir!!
Which brand has the widest neck measurements.
Once again a GREAT video....
I felt the A Style was a little brighter, which draws me closer to the F style. I am intrigued by Octave Mando. I would probably also enjoy a deeper bowl-back O-Hole. I have no negativity toward any style of Mando. I have a nice F Style Mando but I would like a beater to take out and for that I might want a bowl back a-style.
What do you feel gives the richest deepest tone and not a tinny sound? I am only now preparing my learning journey.
I have surprised myself !
I guess I always just had it in my head, that an " F " would sound better ?
But what I heard here, was for me, the " A " sounded all around better !
First thing I heard with the " F ", was it's sound was a bit flat, for lack of a better term.
The " A " just sounded more uniform to my ear.
It seemed to modulate all the various Frequencies better !
Now I'll finish watching the video !
I have several mandolins, but recently bought a 1914 Gibson mandolin but concerned on the strings where should I buy the right strings????
A great comparison and I listened a second time but closed my eyes and could pick out the slightly softer tone of the F. But I didn't always get it right. I played a bit, way back in the 70/80s then stopped with family to bring up. I've got back to it and as I play by memory I've struggled a bit but getting there. You probably won't know the model I have (it's an Artist. Cost me £60 sterling, and I fitted an e-pickup system to it). The F looks great and I'd say that's it's only plus. I'll stick with you and maybe learn something. As they say over this side of the pond. Every day's a school day.
Fantastic comparison.
Thanks for the comparison!
I have a LOAR 600F.
I'd be interested to hear a comparison between the 300 and the 600.
I would be interested in a comparison between the Loar 600F and Loar 700F (which is just $100 more 😉)!
I have an f style; bought it because of the look. Still play it regularly.
Of course, they both sound very similar, as the two "styles" are just cosmetically different. The sound generating parts are pretty much the same. Some think the "f" style looks fancier. Personally, I think they look weird and cumbersome. I prefer "a"style, but its just what you like the look of really....
I am probably too stupid so forgive me. A or F... when I can play something with some authority, I will consider the question. I have know some somewhat famous musicians who played various cheap instruments and honed their skills then the moved to a nicer one. I thank you Baron for helping learn a little.
More harmonic content and perceived midrange depth in that F compared to that A. Fuller sound, may be harder to tame with an EQ in a mix. But it's tough to try to arrange a piece where the mandolin doesn't do its job of being heard.
Name of the 5:50 tune?
Bro i'm serious help me 🫠🫠
what's the tune he plays first?
I do like the one in your right hand. I'm wondering if the company makes that mandolin for lefties?
I was concerned the F style would be 15 frets to the body vs 12 for the A style, but they're both 12, so nice control there, too. Great video as usual!
I listened without watching. It sounded like the same instrument throughout the tune. Maybe my ear is less discerning than some folks, but I really couldn't hear a difference. Thanks for such an interesting demonstration!
Because there IS no difference. Just what you prefer the look of....
I like the F style (and have a F style Loar) but as I learn more Irish tunes and hopes to play in some Irish sessions I might want an A style for that setting.
Dont worry about that, no one will mind if you bring along an f style mandolin to a session, i know a few trad mandolinists who play f styles!
Very good info and opinion. Thanks!
Definetely U may hear as well as I do myself that thé F style sounds much fuller n'warmer, a winner for shure !
I wish Sweetwater had more mandolins in their retail space. Same for banjos, dobros , fiddles etc.
What is a dobro? Thanks.
Thanks for another great video. What are your thoughts on mandos that come with a built-in pick-up such as the Eastman 305E?
16th subscriber LIKE; 153rd view. One of my mandolins is an A-style just like the one in this comparison - although I had a deer antler saddle installed on the bridge, and use the EJ74s. Also - like I see on some of yours, I've installed rubber grommets between the pairs of strings, half-way between the bridge & tail-piece.
Thanks for this video.
To these old-guy ears, the F-style is noticeably brighter,
which may be why it's the choice for Bluegrass players.
I thought the F-style sounded better all round. But I’m rather biased as I have The Loar F-style and I love it. I have tried other mandolins around the same price but I always come back to The Loar.
Very close! The F-style seems just a shade warmer, and the A-style very slightly brighter. Both sound very good.
The F style had more sustain when you played the scale. A models are brighter. I played an A style Kentucky for years, and people were always telling me what nice tone it made.
The A style rang like a bell. The F style might be better at fighting feedback with a pickup since it was quieter and less sustaining. I have an old A style but I’d like to find an F style that’s sturdier for gigging.
Wow this video rocks. The a is so much more irish sounding, if that makes sense. you really hear the jig.. the A is richer. The F is cleaner, definitely has a more bluegrass sounds If that makes sense. Ill def be getting the for that reason. But maybe one day ill have both
"The F is cleaner, definitely has a more bluegrass sounds If that makes sense."
Thank you for expressing what my untrained ear heard but could not describe. I began mandolin lessons last month, so I would have described the F sound as more of a twang (yes, I have yet to develop the vernacular of musicians) that one would hear in country music. Bluegrass describes it perfectly.
I recall the sound of those who gathered round the town square in Mountain View, Arkansas playing bluegrass with banjos and instruments of that ilk.
Being Irish and hearing listening to that music often, I agree, too, with your "Irish sounding" description of the A.
Are you selling the mugs, they are cool!
I honestly like to know why many tailpieces are not centered on the body. I understand the strings should line up with the fretboard, but really you would think in this day of technology, these mandolins could be a bit more precise.
From what I heard, the F style has a slightly deeper lower end and a thinner top end compared to the A style
I would buy the A style,,
Thanks for the chance to hear the diff !
A style is brighter to my ears
From what I could hear on this vid, the A seemed a warmer tone and the F a little sharper. Very close though...my uncle had an old Gibson A style, a black one from the 30's. Wish I knew where it ended up.
Because here in Germany there is only one left handed decent model around and that is an Ortega A Style my decision was done fast
I think that I'm going to get that exact A style Loar. Sweetwater is out of them right now, but $300.00 isn't bad.....
I notice you play an oval hole mando. Why do you prefer the oval hole over an F hole mando? I kinda like the oval hole because it sounds more open.
My only issue with F style is a status thing, I feel like A style better represents the type of music I would be playing. I'm sure F style is wonderful but I won't buy one. Years ago I owned a Jethro Burns bullhorn style with the double points, and oval soundhole, but ended up selling it. Not my style either. A styles can be frying pan, pear shaped or the modern teardrop shaped, or even the original bowlback also fits somewhere into this category.
I play and prefer the looks of an A style also.
If you have extra money, spend it on a tone guard and a pick.
There is a slight difference between the two. Of course, the bigger difference is A style oval v. F style f hole. I have a 1924 A Jr oval and it's a completely different sound than either of these.
To me, the F style sounds more 'American' (I'm English). It makes everything sound more bluegrassy. The A style sounds a bit cleaner. The F style seems to reverberate more than the A causing undamped strings to ring.
I bought an f style 310 loar. And i sold it immediately. I have an a style 250 Kentucky that was so much better.
I love to play the mando but it seems so hard to keep in tune, why.
They both sound like mandolins. The A has a bit more midrange bite. That could just be the specific instruments though.
FWIW, if you're recording /anything/ that doesn't have bass frequencies (i.e., most sources) then definitely set the switch to roll off the bass, because it will only add mud if you don't.
The A model sounded great strumming/chucking
The F model sounded great picking through
Loar is pretty much unavailable in Australia....They look lovely.
I completed ALL the actions for the give-away but instead of a "continuation" button, I hit a wall with just a logout option. I hope my points were saved!
I think the D string on the F- style sounds just a bit better to me. Just getting back into playing after a number of years.
Age makes a big difference. An older mandolin will sound more mellow than a newer one.
Bowl backed mandolins sound different.
The A style vs. F style is hard to detect.
I have noticed that strings make a big difference.
luv'd this excellent demo. evr since attending an auditory perception lecture in college i have been fascinated with side-by-side comparisons and convinced that we see and hear what we expect to see and hear based on our expectation... but for the record, the 'A' style sounded more mellow and somehow prettier? to me anywayz :)
(edit:) if that little pointy-thing on the bottom helps keep the mando from slipping around in ur lap... that right ther mite be worth the price of admission?
I'd love one of those....
I had a loar f style but my Kentucky a style is best sounding iv had. Kentucky is my favorite.