Here we have a beautiful Mendel octave mandolin in Granadillo and Sitka Spruce. As the name suggests, this wonderful instrument is intended to be tuned an octave below standard mandolin tuning, but is equally happy in alternate tunings. The sound is at once familiar yet refreshing. The unison-string chime of the mandolin family is present, but the strident, higher-pitched wail of the mandolin is replaced with a warmth and intimacy that harkens back to the Old World. And because of the larger air volume within the body, notes ring out and sustain like a church bell. An exquisite instrument that’s different in all the right ways.
I really appreciate Joe Mendel's work, and I'm very impressed with the simple elegance of this octave mandolin. Rather than overwhelming us with a lot of unnecessary bling, Joe focuses on tone and playability -- the Sitka top and Granadillo back and sides glow with an inner fire, and the tone indeed warms the soul with a voice that's articulate and lush. And the Flamed Maple neck has a great feel and shape that begs to be played. Come channel your inner minstrel today! 
Great instrument for playing traditional music styles. I used GDAD as the tuning for the sample, but you can easily use it in GDAE, exactly an octave below a mandolin. It has a nice playable neck and clear overtones which are perfect for creating a different texture in a mix or in an ensemble. | Scale Length | 22.75 in |
|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.34 in |
| String Spacing | 1.56 in |
| Woods | Spruce - Sitka, Granadillo |
Here we have a beautiful Mendel octave mandolin in Granadillo and Sitka Spruce. As the name suggests, this wonderful instrument is intended to be tuned an octave below standard mandolin tuning, but is equally happy in alternate tunings
I really appreciate Joe Mendel's work, and I'm very impressed with the simple elegance of this octave mandolin. Rather than overwhelming us with a lot of unnecessary bling, Joe focuses on tone and playability -- the Sitka top and Granadillo back and sides glow with an inner fire, and the tone indeed warms the soul with a voice that's articulate and lush
Great instrument for playing traditional music styles. I used GDAD as the tuning for the sample, but you can easily use it in GDAE, exactly an octave below a mandolin 