Ibanez M700S Mandolin - Antique Violin Sunburst High Gloss

Beautiful instrument; solid maple, but sounds tinny and full of high-mids

The specs of this mando and build are awesome but it sounds like a tin can. Solid wood maple on the front and back and a beautiful finish make this F5 mandolin a real eye catcher. Unfortunately, the one I got has a tinny sound with no bass and lacks the "bluegrass chomp." If you are a professional player, this instrument is OK as a backup mandolin but you won't be happy with the sound as a primary instrument.

I ordered a solid brass tailpiece and a new bridge to see if the sound can be improved. I *think* thinning a lot of the mass in the bridge will help some. The instrument sounds OK thru a microphone where you can apply EQ and effects.Read full review

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: pre-owned • Sold by: photosavings

Tuners are poor. Very hard and Almost impossible to tune.

Unit was received with poor intonation. I had to relocate the bridge to fix. So much for Sweeetwaters 55 point inspection! Tuners are almost impossible to use. Other than that, it’s sounds good and is a beautiful instrument.Read full review

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: new • Sold by: sweetwatersound

Beautiful mandolin. The problem was a li...

Beautiful mandolin. The problem was a little more severe than cracked buttons, but considering what it costs new, no problem.

Verified purchase:  Yes • Sold by: jeffsmusicgear

A lovely instrument.

Well made. Great feel and sound. Attractive.

Love it.

I am new to playing the mandolin. It is of good quality. Thanks.

plays well but.....

tuning keys are sticky and hard to use.

Verified purchase:  Yes • Condition: new • Sold by: yandasmusic