10 Best Mandolins 2025 in the United States

The Ibanez M522 is an F-style acoustic mandolin known for its striking Dark Violin Sunburst gloss finish. It features a solid spruce top, which is recognized for producing a bright and resonant sound, perfect for both beginners and advanced players. The laminated maple back and sides contribute to the instrument's durability while giving it a visually appealing look.

The rosewood bridge and fingerboard add to the quality, providing a smooth playing experience. Weighing 3.8 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle during extended playing sessions. The scale length of 350 millimeters caters well to players with smaller hands, making it comfortable to play intricate melodies.

However, the use of laminated wood for the back and sides, as opposed to solid wood, may not appeal to purists looking for the best acoustic resonance. The adjustable bridge is a useful feature for fine-tuning the instrument to personal playing preferences. This mandolin would be best suited for folk, bluegrass, and country music enthusiasts who appreciate good craftsmanship and a beautiful finish at a reasonable price point.

The Loar LM-310F-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a quality instrument that won't break the bank. One of its standout features is the hand-carved solid spruce top, which offers a bright and resonant sound—important for any mandolin. The maple back and sides contribute to its durability and enhance tonal quality, making it suitable for various musical styles, including bluegrass and folk.

The neck profile features a thin 'V' shape, which is comfortable for many players, especially those with smaller hands. The 1-1/8" nut width provides enough space for easy finger placement, making it less challenging for newcomers to grasp the chords. The satin brown burst finish not only gives it an attractive appearance but also adds to its overall playability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. At 4 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy for extended playing sessions, which could be a drawback for some users. Also, while the quality is commendable, some players might find that it lacks the rich, complex tones of higher-end mandolins. The instrument's manual operation mode means that it requires a bit of care and skill to maintain, which could be a turn-off for absolute beginners. This mandolin is well-suited for players seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing instrument, especially those who are still developing their skills and want something that offers a good balance of affordability and quality.

The Ibanez M510OVS Acoustic Mandolin in Vintage Sunburst is an attractive option for mandolin enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly instrument. It features a classic A-style body with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, providing a warm and rich sound profile. The open-pore finish not only gives it a vintage look but also allows the wood to resonate more freely. With a scale length of 13.75 inches and a comfortable neck profile, it is suitable for both beginners and intermediate players.

The mandolin is equipped with 20 frets and a fixed rosewood bridge, ensuring stable tuning and intonation. The addition of X bracing and ivory binding adds to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, the bronze strings might require frequent replacements depending on usage, and some players may find the light string gauge less satisfactory for more aggressive playing styles. At 3.1 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle.

This mandolin is ideal for those who are starting out or looking for a reliable second instrument without breaking the bank.