Hi,
Yes, Simon is quite correct when he says that the F style (scrolls and points) adds little if nothing to the overall performance, but significantly to the price.
There are a couple of rules of thumb which, while having many exceptions and being argued a lot, are usfull to those starting out:
Because of the higher cost of manufacture, an A style (the normal name for a tear-drop shape) offers more value for the money. The elaborate design of the F style is mostly decorative and expensive. But exceedingly cool.
Arch-top instruments are louder than flat tops. Arched tops are more expensive. The arched top allows greater pressure to be exerted on the top without collapsing. There is nearly 50 pounds of down force on the soundboard of the average arch top mandolin with a much greater break angle from bridge to tailpiece.
Round/oval holes and F holes (like a violin) offer different sounds. The F holes are brighter with more ‘punch’, the oval holes are woodier and softer. F holes are almost entirely relegated to arch-top instruments while round holes are found in either configuation, and almost exclusively on flat top instruments.
Flat top, round hole instruments are more commonly seen in the Irish session.
Construction is everything. Solid wood tops are nearly universally preferred over laminates. Carved arch tops are superior to steam pressed tops. Tap-tuned arch tops are superior to non-tuned tops.
Again, all that is a generalization of the mass of opinion. All points have exceptions and there are varying experiences everywhere you go.
It’s very fair to say that the Trinity College instruments are remarkably popular in their price range. They are among the most recommended brand for the beginner/intermediate student, and are often the only bouzouki many players ever own.
If I had it to do again, I would start with a Trinity College and end my career with my sights on an arch-top, F hole, tap-tuned instrument as my ultimate choice.
And yes, several, but not all, of those instruments are products of the Saga Guitar Works of China, although they are produced to different specifications for the various badges. So while they are similar, there are differences that are preferred by individual players.
No matter the instrument you choose, allow enough in the budget for a proper set up. All mandolin family instruments benefit remarkably from a good set up, and it often makes the difference between a good performer and an unplayable instrument. There is an old saying that tells about the $500 instrument with proper set up out-performing the $10,000 one without set up.
And by all means do visit mandolincafe. They are the Chiff and Fipple of the mandolin world.
