Kentucky Artist F-Model Mandolin KM-855 – Vintage Amberburst, Solid German Spruce Top, Flamed Alpine Maple Back & Sides, Ebony Fingerboard, Smooth Playability

The photo of this item is not anything like what you receive. This is the second Kentucky mandolin I tried to purchase that misrepresents the item that they sell. Furthermore, it showed up with light strings despite saying the strings are medium. Lastly, the bridge is not practical for the instrument, at the lowest position the action is way too high and can not be lowered any further. I have an old Kentucky, which I love, and really wanted to upgrade, but extremely disappointed with the current quality control.

this is a great "F" Style mandolin; top quality sound from this. With alittle work on the bridge to get lower action this is nothing short of amazing for the price

I was beyond shocked that this beautiful instrument had nothing but a bit of cardboard protecting it. I'm a lucky one for sure. There was very little damage. The finish rubbed off on the neck because it wore through the packaging and rubbed on the cardboard holding it in place. Well, it didn't actually hold it in place, hence the damage. I was able to buff it out so I kept it. Packaging aside, this instrument is beautiful to look at, to play and to hear. Mine needed no adjustments at all. 5 stars for the instrument, 1 star for packaging. Shame.

The packaging for this fragile fine instrument is completely inadequate. I just received the mandolin and the headstock was broken right off the neck at the nut. The neck is only supported in the box by a cardboard slot at mid neck leaving the headstock unsupported. The instrument box only has a thin piece of paper covering the instrument, this box is then in a larger box with just a couple pieces of crumpled up paper to support it. Frankly I am disgusted with this situation and recommend no one buy fine instruments here if this is how they are handled. I am waiting for UPS to pick it up to return it and I am asking for a refund, not a replacement. I will deal with a local music store, I learned my lesson and might pay more but I will know what I am getting. The hassle of returning the item and waiting for a refund makes the whole experience completely disappointing. I was very excited and looking forward to receiving this, to find the neck broken off is just completely unacceptable on the part of Amazon. Now I also have a case on the way that I no longer need if I don't have the instrument. I guess I'll have to return that also.

Purchased with the travel lite case. Arrived with great packaging, however there was a 2 inch crack in the body next to the neck. It looked like a second or blemished item. Kentucky no longer makes this model, so it is possble that only seconds and blems are available. Caution!

Fantastic mandolin. Very well made. I own several quality instruments and can confirm that Kentucky is among the best of the Asian-made market.

Out of several mandolins I own my KM 855 is the one I usually pick up to play. Mine is about 10 years old. Have not had any problems.Paul