I first heard of Eastman mandolins on a trip to the States in 2001.

A couple of years went by before I came across these mandolins in the UK and I had the chance to spend a happy hour trying out a variety of models.

Eastmans are mid-priced instruments but nonetheless are truly impressive re-creatons of vintage American mandolins. It took me matter of seconds to conclude that Eastman had banished forever any lingering prejudices that Chinese made instruments are of poor quality.

They're hand made and appear in the West at very attractive prices.

Music shops specialising in mandolins are to be treasured, and I found this beautiful model 614 - based on a Gibson F4 - at The Music Room in Cleckheaton.

Other Eastman links:
Bole Music (UK distribution).
Eastman Mandolins (International).