Mandolin Top Voicing
From the starting point of the wood's density and rigidity, each mandolin top is hand selected, evaluated, and carved to its own unique thickness; maximizing the tonal potential of each top. An Adirondack spruce top provides excellent clarity and focus with lots of projection and headroom.
Premium Tonewoods
Each of our mandolins, from our most affordable model to the highest end, are built with the finest tonewoods available. Each wood is acquired, acclimated, and hand selected by master luthiers who pick each component with the whole tonality of the end instrument in mind. Our MF5 models are built with figured maples that are specially selected for exceptional figuring in addition to tonality.
Playability
A combination of exacting PLEK machine leveling and hand fret dressing ensure a comfortable setup and silky fret feel. A compound 5 1/2 -11 5/8 fingerboard radius, V shaped neck profile, and 1 9/16 inch string spacing creates an exceptional playability that is versatile for a wide range of styles.
Varnish Finish
More flexible than lacquer, our alkyd resin based varnish finish allows for a rich, developed sound early in an instrument's life. Over time its warm amber patina and responsiveness only increase, creating an instrument of exceptional appearance and tone.
Hardware
Each mandolin bridge and pickguard are handmade of solid ebony here in the Collings shop. Our tailpieces offer convenient top loading and are made of bronze to enhance string resonance. Gotoh tuners provide a smooth tuning feel and reliable operation.
Appointments
The Collings MF5 V features top, back, neck and peghead binding with black/white purflings and mother of pearl dot inlays. A bound ebony pickguard, outline engraved tailpiece, and mother of pearl Flourish peghead inlay are also included.
Sound-hole
F-style sound-holes are precision cut after the finish has been applied to ensure a thin, even finish across the top and exceptionally clean and elegant lines. F-style sound-holes are paired with dual tone bar bracing for excellent projection and bright articulate tone.
Make It Your Own
Collings mandolins feature several options including varieties of top wood, nut widths, inlays and more. Each Collings instrument can be configured to match your playing style and aesthetic preference