Best Mandolins for Beginners [2023 Review]

Strumming away at the heartstrings of bluegrass, folk, and even rock ‘n roll, the mandolin has enchanted musicians and audiences alike with its enchanting twang and unique style.

It’s no wonder you’re considering picking one up for the first time.

A mandolin can be an absolute joy to play, but knowing which one to start with can feel a bit like a flat note in a sea of perfect harmony. Fear not, intrepid musical adventurer! We’ve scoured the music world, put our ears to the soundboard, and have compiled a list that will guide you to the best beginner mandolins.

We’ve considered a range of factors – price, playability, build quality, sound – all crucial for choosing the best beginner mandolin.

Ready to choose the best beginner mandolin for you?

IMPORTANT: We know you can get cheap imported mandolins for around $100 bucks on Amazon but this is an article on the best beginner mandolins, not the best toys to entertain your child for a month. All of the name brands on this list are trusted names in the industry and all make for quality mandolins for someone interested in learning how to play this wonderful acoustic instrument.

Product Overview

The Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack presents a perfect harmony of value and quality, offering everything a beginner mandolinist needs to start their musical journey on the right note.

This beginner mandolin pack features a premium Washburn M3E acoustic mandolin, a gig bag, a pitch pipe, a strap, picks, and an instructional booklet.

The mandolin itself is a beautiful instrument with a Florentine-style shape, solid spruce top, and maple back and sides – all designed to deliver a resonant sound and enjoyable playing experience.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• Solid spruce top and maple back and sides for a bright, punchy tone.
• Comes as a pack with several accessories, including a gig bag and instructional booklet, providing excellent value.
• The mandolin features a Florentine cutaway design, allowing easier access to the upper frets.
• Equipped with a pickup for amplified playing, making it suitable for stage performances.
• Chrome hardware and high gloss sunburst finish give it an appealing aesthetic.

Suitability

The Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack is ideal for beginners seeking an all-in-one solution for their entry into beginner mandolin playing.

The included instructional booklet can guide novices through their initial learning phase, while the quality of the instrument allows for considerable skill growth. The inbuilt pickup also means this mandolin can accompany you from bedroom practice to stage performance.

User Reviews

Users often commend the Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack for its value and sound quality. Beginners appreciate the addition of the instructional booklet and the various accessories. Some have praised the crisp, bright sound produced by the solid spruce top and maple body, and the amplified sound is noted to be clear and well-balanced.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• All-in-one package provides excellent value for beginners.
• Solid spruce top and maple body deliver a pleasing bright tone.
• Built-in pickup system allows for amplified playing.
• Florentine cutaway design offers easier access to upper frets.

Cons:

• Some users have noted that it may need a setup or adjustment for optimal playability.

Specifications

Dimensions: 29.5 x 13 x 4 inches

Weight: 7.5 pounds

Top: Solid Spruce

Back & Sides: Maple

Connection Type: Built-in pickup

Final Verdict

The Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack offers great value for beginners, with a quality instrument and a host of useful accessories. The mandolin’s sound quality is commendable, and the pickup system provides the versatility to play both acoustically and amplified. While it may require some setup for optimal playability, it’s a well-rounded choice for those starting their journey into the world of mandolin music.

 Product Overview

The Ibanez M522SBS F-Style Mandolin is a stand-out option for beginners who seek a blend of traditional aesthetics with reliable performance. This vintage-styled mandolin, adorned with a brown sunburst high gloss finish, embodies the elegance of classic mandolins. It’s crafted from solid spruce and flamed maple, delivering a resonant tone that inspires strumming away tunes right out of the box.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• Solid spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, providing a resonant and bright tonal quality.
• An F-style body shape, reminiscent of traditional designs, gives it a classic appeal.
• Gold die-cast tuners and pearl block inlay add to the luxurious feel of the instrument.
• A brown sunburst high gloss finish that accentuates its refined aesthetics.

Suitability

The Ibanez M522SBS is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to immerse themselves in the rich history of mandolin music. Its classic F-style body shape and vintage finish will appeal to those drawn to traditional aesthetics, while its solid construction provides a reliable learning platform.

User Reviews

Users love the beautiful design and robust sound of the Ibanez M522SBS F-Style Mandolin. The quality of the craftsmanship is often praised, and its tone is described as warm and full-bodied. Some beginners found the instrument exceeded their expectations in terms of both sound and build quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Solid spruce top and flamed maple body contribute to a rich, vibrant tone.
• Traditional F-style body and vintage finish are visually appealing.
• Pearl block inlay and gold die-cast tuners add a touch of luxury.

Cons:

• May require professional setup to achieve optimal sound and playability.

Specifications

Dimensions: 27 x 3 x 10 inches

Weight: 2.5 pounds

Top: Solid Spruce

Back & Sides: Flamed Maple Solid Wood

Final Verdict

The Ibanez M522SBS F-Style Mandolin brings together tradition and performance. Its beautiful F-style design, solid construction, and resonant tone make it a fantastic choice for beginners seeking a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing and affordable mandolin. While some setup may be required, the overall quality and sound of this instrument offer great value for the investment.

This acoustic mandolin might just be the best beginner mandolin on the eyes with the sexy design it offers for a low price.

Product Overview

The Luna Moonbird A-Style Mandolin is an incredibly versatile piece that caters to modern musicians’ needs. With its distinct black satin finish and beautiful lunar-inspired design, it’s a perfect fusion of traditional mandolin construction and contemporary aesthetic. Moreover, the acoustic/electric capabilities ensure you’re never confined to one style or setting.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• Can switch from Acoustic to Electric, offering versatility for various playing styles and settings.
• Mahogany body and neck with a rosewood fingerboard, resulting in a warm, resonant tone.
• Distinct black satin finish and lunar-themed inlays, creating a unique aesthetic appeal.
• Includes a built-in preamp for easy amplification.

Suitability

The Luna Moonbird is ideal for beginners looking to explore a range of music styles. Its dual acoustic and electric capabilities enable a broad sonic range. Furthermore, its distinctive aesthetic is perfect for those who want an instrument that stands out visually and sonically.

User Reviews

Users often praise the Luna Moonbird for its superb playability, distinctive design, and the added flexibility of the built-in preamp. Beginners appreciate its user-friendly features and find the instrument to be a worthwhile investment that delivers in both sound and appearance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Acoustic and Electric capabilities enhance versatility.
• Unique aesthetic with a black satin finish and lunar-themed inlays.
• Built-in preamp for easy amplification.

Cons:

• Its distinct design might not appeal to traditionalists.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 29 x 13 x 4 inches
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Top, Body, & Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Rosewood Fretboard

Final Verdict

The Luna Moonbird A-Style Mandolin offers a fresh take on the classic mandolin. With its standout design and versatile acoustic/electric capabilities, it’s a fantastic instrument for beginners looking to explore beyond traditional boundaries. While the design might not be for everyone, those who appreciate its unique aesthetics will find it a truly captivating instrument.

Product Overview

If you’re a beginner eager to dive into the world of bluegrass and folk music, the Loar LM-310F-BRB Honey Creek is a fantastic instrument if you are into f-style mandolins. Boasting a hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides, it’s a premium quality instrument that doesn’t compromise on tone or playability.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• F-Style body design is popular amongst stringed instruments ensembles in bluegrass and folk.
• Hand-carved solid spruce top with maple back and sides for a rich, full-bodied tone.
• A thin “V” profile neck for comfortable playability.
• Classic brown-burst finish for a timeless aesthetic.

Suitability

This mandolin is perfect for beginners with a keen interest in bluegrass and folk music due to its traditional F-Style design. Its superior build quality and materials ensure a rich, resonant sound that captures the authentic tones of these music styles.

User Reviews

Users of the Loar LM-310F-BRB often commend its exceptional sound quality, sturdy construction, and excellent playability. Beginners find the instrument quite user-friendly and agree that it provides great value for its price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quality construction with a hand-carved solid spruce top and maple back and sides. • Traditional F-Style design, perfect for bluegrass and traditional folk music. • Comfortable playability with a thin “V” profile neck.

Cons:

• Some users mention that it might require professional setup for optimal playability.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.4 x 10.5 x 2.5 inches
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Top: Hand-Carved Solid Wood (Spruce)
• Back & Sides: Maple

Final Verdict

The Loar LM-310F-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin is a beautifully crafted instrument that truly captures the spirit of bluegrass and folk music. Its high-quality construction and materials, along with its comfortable playability, make it a worthy investment for beginners. While it might require some initial setup, the resulting sound and playability are well worth the effort.

Product Overview

The Ibanez M510EDVS is an A-Style acoustic-electric mandolin that offers a brilliant combination of vintage charm and modern features. This great mandolin includes a magnetic pickup and a single output jack, allowing you to amplify your music whenever needed. This instrument is crafted with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, ensuring a vibrant tone that is balanced and clear, and is one of the best mandolins to choose for beginners.

Price Range: $$

Key Features:

• Acoustic-electric capabilities with a magnetic pickup and single output jack.
• A-Style body for a traditional, classic look.
• Spruce top and mahogany back and sides for a rich, balanced tone.
• Chrome tuners and a dark violin sunburst finish for a vintage aesthetic.

Suitability

Ideal for beginners and experienced players alike, the Ibanez M510EDVS offers the flexibility of playing acoustically or plugged in. Its traditional A-Style design is versatile, suited for various musical genres from bluegrass to folk.

User Reviews

Customers rave about the Ibanez M510EDVS’s stellar sound quality, both unplugged and amplified. Users appreciate the mandolin’s sturdy build, vintage aesthetic, and the added versatility of the built-in pickup.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Acoustic-electric capabilities offering versatility in sound.
• Quality construction with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides.
• Aesthetic appeal with a dark violin sunburst finish.

Cons:

• Some users have reported the need for minor adjustments out of the box for optimal playability.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.7 x 13.3 x 4.2 inches
• Weight: 2.65 pounds
• Top: Spruce
• Back & Sides: Mahogany

Final Verdict

The Ibanez M510EDVS A-Style Acoustic-Electric Mandolin strikes a fine balance between traditional design and modern functionality. Its acoustic-electric capabilities, coupled with its quality build and striking aesthetics, make it a versatile choice for beginners. While it may require some setup initially, its sound quality and performance are truly commendable.

Product Overview

Eastman’s MD305 is an A-style mandolin that stands out with its hand-carved solid Spruce top and solid Maple back and sides, all sporting a gorgeous nitrocellulose finish. The mandolin’s tone is impeccably balanced, courtesy of these superior tonewoods and handcrafted design.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• A-style body design with an attractive nitrocellulose finish.
• Hand-carved from solid spruce and maple for top-tier tonal qualities.
• Chrome hardware and adjustable ebony bridge for enhanced playability.
• Cast tailpiece and radiused ebony fretboard for a comfortable playing experience.

Suitability

The Eastman MD305 is perfect for beginners and intermediate players looking for a great mandolin that will grow with them. Its craftsmanship and quality materials provide a beautiful and resonant tone, making it suitable for various music genres, including bluegrass, folk, and country.

User Reviews

Players laud the Eastman MD305 for its stunning aesthetics and robust, balanced tone. Many admire the instrument’s craftsmanship, saying that it far exceeds expectations for its price range. Some note that a professional setup may help optimize the instrument’s playability and sound.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superior tonewoods for a balanced and resonant tone.
• High-quality craftsmanship.
• Beautiful nitrocellulose finish and chrome hardware.

Cons:

• May require a professional setup for optimal sound and playability.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.8 x 10.2 x 2.8 inches
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Top: Solid Spruce
• Back & Sides: Solid Maple

Final Verdict

The Eastman MD305 A-Style Mandolin is a fantastic pick for beginner to intermediate players. It’s a new mandolin that not only looks stunning but also provides a sound quality that punches way above its weight. This instrument exemplifies the blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and performance, making it a superb investment for any aspiring mandolin player.

Product Overview

The Gold Tone F-6 F-Style 6-String Mandolin-Guitar is a unique hybrid instrument that brings together the best of mandolins and guitars. The six strings are tuned just like a guitar, but the F-Style body and size offer the crisp and distinct tone of a mandolin, making it a fascinating option for those seeking a bit of the unexpected.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• F-style body for the characteristic mandolin resonance.
• Six strings tuned like a guitar for ease of play.
• Solid spruce top with maple back and sides for balanced and bright tone.
• Features a dual pickup system with a bridge-mounted piezo and an MP1 magnetic pickup.

Suitability

The Gold Tone F-6 is perfect for acoustic guitar players seeking to explore the distinct mandolin sound without the need to learn a new instrument. Its unique design and hybrid nature make it suitable for a wide range of genres from folk to country to rock.

User Reviews

Users appreciate the Gold Tone F-6’s innovative design, which allows them to enjoy the best of both the mandolin and the guitar worlds. The instrument’s quality construction, excellent tone, and easy playability have received high praise from customers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique hybrid design offering the tones of both a mandolin and guitar.
• Quality construction with a solid spruce top and maple back and sides.
• Dual pickup system offering a versatile sound range.

Cons:

• Given its unique nature, it may not be suitable for purists seeking a traditional mandolin experience.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 38 x 15 x 4 inches
• Weight: 7 pounds
• Top: Solid Spruce
• Back & Sides: Maple

Final Verdict

The Gold Tone F-6 F-Style 6-String Mandolin-Guitar is an innovative instrument that blends the guitar’s comfort with the mandolin’s distinct tonal character. It’s perfect for guitarists looking to venture into the realm of mandolin sound without stepping too far from their comfort zone. Its dual pickup system, quality materials, and unique design make it a standout choice for any music enthusiast.

Product Overview

The Washburn Americana M1 Pack A-Style Mandolin serves as an all-in-one solution for aspiring mandolinists. This comprehensive package includes not only a quality A-style mandolin, but also a padded gig bag, a mandolin strap, picks, and a pitch pipe for tuning — all the essentials for getting started on your musical journey.

Price Range: $$

Key Features:

• A-style body design, popular for its balanced tone and comfortable playing style.
• Comes with a padded gig bag, strap, picks, and a pitch pipe.
• Constructed with a spruce top and maple back and sides for a robust, clear sound.
• Adjustable rosewood bridge allows for customization of string action.

Suitability

The Washburn Americana M1 Pack is a perfect choice for beginners, offering a comprehensive solution with all the necessary accessories included. The instrument’s quality construction and sound make it a reliable choice for both practice and performance.

User Reviews

Users commend the Washburn Americana M1 Pack for its value, noting the inclusion of a gig bag and other accessories as a great advantage for beginners. The sound quality, playability, and overall craftsmanship of the mandolin have been praised by novice and experienced players alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• All-in-one package, perfect for beginners.
• Quality construction with a spruce top and maple back and sides.
• Adjustable bridge for personalized setup.

Cons:

• Some users have noted that the pitch pipe included for tuning may not be as accurate as an electronic tuner.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 28 x 13 x 5 inches
• Weight: 4.5 pounds
• Top: Spruce
• Back & Sides: Maple

Final Verdict

For those venturing into the world of mandolin playing, the Washburn Americana M1 Pack provides a comprehensive and quality solution. Its all-inclusive nature, combined with a well-made instrument that delivers a balanced, clear sound, makes this package a solid investment for beginners. It’s a testament to Washburn’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible instruments for all.

Product Overview

The Ortega Guitars RMFE40SBK is an F-Style Mandolin that offers a blend of traditional design and modern features. With a visually striking sunburst finish and a solid spruce top, this mandolin stands out not just in looks, but also in sound.

Price Range: $$$

Key Features:

• F-style mandolin design, which is favored for its intricate detailing and robust sound.
• Solid spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, providing rich tonal qualities.
• Comes with a deluxe gig bag for transportation and storage.
• Equipped with a built-in preamp and tuner for plugged-in performances and easy tuning.

Suitability

The Ortega Guitars RMFE40SBK F-Style Mandolin is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players looking to step up their game. Its built-in preamp and tuner make it ideal for both acoustic and amplified performances.

User Reviews

Users are drawn to the Ortega RMFE40SBK for its unique combination of traditional style and modern functionality. Many praise its impressive sound quality and reliable build, while others appreciate the convenience of its built-in preamp and tuner.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stunning design with a sunburst finish.
• Solid construction with quality tonewoods.
• Built-in preamp and tuner for versatility.

Cons:

• Its price and features might be a bit advanced for absolute beginners.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 29.53 x 12.6 x 3.94 inches
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Top: Solid Spruce
• Back & Sides: Flamed Maple

Final Verdict

The Ortega Guitars RMFE40SBK F-Style Mandolin is a quality instrument that pairs classic design with modern features. Its beautiful aesthetics and excellent sound make it a worthwhile investment for those willing to stretch their budget a bit. Ideal for more experienced players, this mandolin provides a robust tonal palette that will surely enhance any performance.

Product Overview

The Seagull S8 Mandolin SG is a refreshing departure from the traditional mandolin design. Made in North America, this mandolin presents a unique shape and a natural finish, showcasing its fine craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Price Range: $$

Key Features:

• A double cutaway design, providing easy access to the upper frets and adding a modern aesthetic.
• Crafted from quality tonewoods such as solid sitka spruce for the top and maple for the neck and body.
• Features a custom polished semi-gloss finish, bringing out the natural beauty of the wood.
• Comes with an open-geared tuning machine for easy and precise tuning.

Suitability

The Seagull S8 Mandolin is a great choice for players who appreciate a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics. This mandolin is a fantastic pick for those who are looking for an affordable, yet quality instrument, regardless of skill level.

User Reviews

Users have mentioned how the Seagull S8 Mandolin offers excellent value for its price. They note the instrument’s robust sound, unique design, and ease of playability. The craftsmanship and sound projection have also been frequently highlighted by players.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Uniquely modern double cutaway design.
• Solid construction from quality tonewoods.
• Good value for the price.

Cons:

• Might not appeal to those seeking a more traditional mandolin look.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.4 x 10.6 x 1.9 inches
• Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
• Back & Sides: Maple

Final Verdict

The Seagull S8 Mandolin SG offers a fantastic balance between quality and affordability. With its unique design and solid construction, this mandolin promises to deliver a unique playing experience. It’s an instrument that doesn’t compromise on quality despite its lower price point, making it a highly recommended choice for beginners and experienced players alike.

Product Overview

The Loar LM-110-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin is a testament to vintage-inspired design paired with modern craftsmanship. With a tasteful finish and alluring F-style body, this mandolin can deliver impressive performance while staying comfortably within a budget-friendly range.

Price Range: $$

Key Features:

• F-style body with an impressive brownburst finish.
• Crafted with hand-carved, solid spruce top and maple back and sides.
• Equipped with an adjustable compensated rosewood bridge for accurate intonation.
• Features an easy-to-play slim neck profile for comfortable playing.

Suitability

The Loar LM-110-BRB is a suitable choice for beginners looking to explore the world of mandolin playing without breaking the bank. Its easy-to-play neck and solid tonewood construction offer the groundwork for an authentic and enjoyable mandolin experience.

User Reviews

Users of the Loar LM-110-BRB appreciate its high-quality construction, vintage look, and the rich tone it produces. Its balance of affordability and quality makes it a popular choice among beginner and intermediate players alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quality construction with an attractive design.
• Adjustable bridge for better intonation.
• Offers excellent value for money.

Cons:

• Some users report needing to adjust the setup for optimal playability.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.5 x 10 x 2.5 inches
• Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Top: Solid Spruce
• Back & Sides: Maple

Final Verdict

The Loar LM-110-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin offers a lot of value for its price point. Its blend of vintage aesthetics, robust sound, and solid construction make it a top choice for those looking to dive into the world of mandolins. With a few personal adjustments, this mandolin can deliver a rewarding and enjoyable playing experience for players of all levels.

Product Overview

The Kentucky KM-150 Standard A-model Mandolin exemplifies an affordable yet high-quality mandolin with a design that harks back to the traditional mandolin architecture. This is an instrument built to last, with quality components and a sound that will keep on improving the more it is played. The Kentucky Mandolin Company is also a trusted name in instrument design.

Price Range: $$

Key Features:

• A-model body design with an exquisite sunburst finish.
• Crafted from solid Alpine spruce top and solid maple back and sides.
• Adjustable rosewood bridge allows for perfect intonation.
• Slim neck profile with an adjustable truss rod for a comfortable grip and easy action.

Suitability

Ideal for beginners, the Kentucky KM-150 is a robust and playable instrument that offers great value for its price point. Its solid construction and quality tonewoods deliver a sound that is bright and resonant, perfect for individuals looking to play bluegrass mandolin.

User Reviews

Many users praise the Kentucky KM-150 for its excellent tone and playability, with a solid build that stands up to regular use. It’s often cited as a fantastic beginner mandolin, delivering more than what its price tag suggests.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable and offers great value for its price.
• Sturdy build with quality tonewoods.
• Comfortable neck profile, easy for beginners.

Cons:

• Some users note that it may need a professional setup for optimal sound and playability.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 27.8 x 13.6 x 3.7 inches
• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Top: Solid Alpine Spruce
• Back & Sides: Solid Maple

Final Verdict

The Kentucky KM-150 Standard A-model Mandolin stands as an exceptional choice for beginners. It offers great quality and sound at a highly affordable price, making it accessible for those on a budget. Its solid build ensures it can stand up to regular practice, and with a professional setup, it can offer even better playability and sound. This mandolin is definitely a testament to the phrase “bang for your buck”.

Conclusion: Best Beginner Mandolin for Each Category

There are a few different mandolins to choose from depending on what your needs might be. If you are in a school band or a mandolin orchestra, you might need to choose acoustic-style mandolins. Now, if you want the best mandolin for a bluegrass or folk band, then you might choose something that is higher quality and will last longer.

Regardless of which choice you make among the vast selection of acoustic mandolins, here are our top picks for these acoustic instruments.

Best Mandolin on a Budget: Washburn Americana A-Style Mandolin

In the world of strumming and plucking, the Washburn Americana A-Style Mandolin makes your wallet sing as harmoniously as your music. Its accessibility and quality make it an excellent first choice for those beginning their mandolin journey. The craftsmanship and resonant sound will make you forget it’s a budget pick, ensuring you feel like you’re getting a bang-up job for your buck. This little wonder will undoubtedly take center stage in any aspiring mandolinist’s heart.

Best Mandolin for Progression: Eastman MD305 A-Style Mandolin

For those who’ve got their foot in the door and are looking to explore the vast hallways of mandolin playing, the Eastman MD305 A-Style Mandolin is your key. This isn’t just a mandolin; it’s a lifelong partner in your musical progression. It’s well-made, balanced, and produces a sound that’ll make the hairs on your arm dance with joy. This piece is all about accompanying you from amateur strumming to masterful plucking. With this beauty in your hands, the world of music is your oyster.

Best Mandolin Overall for Beginners: Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack

The journey of a thousand melodies begins with a single strum, and there’s no better place to start that journey than with the Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack. This ensemble offers not only a high-quality mandolin but also all the essentials you need to get started, removing any extra hassle from your musical venture. It stands as a testament to the idea that a beginner’s instrument can also be a quality instrument, offering fantastic sound and comfort in playing. For the budding mandolinist, the Washburn M3E Mandolin Pack is the complete package that tops our chart.