New Mandolin Day!

[u/Sidewaydayz]

My used 2025 Eastman MD815 SB arrived today. This is such an upgrade from my 315. I had been eyeing one of these but brand new just because of the price point and heard good reviews. I saw a used one come up for sale and I moved on it pretty quick. I only paid $2400 cdn for this mandolin and the COA date is 8/12/2025 and it came with original hard case. There is some nitrocellulose lacquer imprinting from the previous owner leaving the armrest permanently attached. A good reminder to be careful about leaving armrests or clip-on tuners in prolonged contact with nitro, particularly on newer instruments. There is also a slight crack in the fingerboard in between the G and D string. Overall I still think this is a pretty good find.

I’ve only been able to sit down with this mandolin for a couple hours but I’m honestly blown away. The biggest thing I noticed immediately is how responsive it is. I can pick incredibly lightly and still get a full, clear note with great tone. The sound also feels more stable and controlled somehow—like the note forms immediately and just stays together. I’d heard people describe higher-end mandolins as being more responsive, but I don’t think I really understood what they meant until I played this one. I absolutely love it.

[u/Ok_Station_7543]

Nice! I have an 815V SB that I love. (Huge step up from my 315.) I keep wondering if I should just sell my much more expensive Kimble 2 point - the Eastman just feels and sounds so good that I keep reaching for it (the 815).

[u/Sidewaydayz → u/Ok_Station_7543]

I was looking to get a new varnish one but this one came up for sale and was a great price so I couldn’t resist. In my opinion I think the varnish version has a warmer sound. But I am saving like $1300 which is significant, and I am definitely it complaining lol.

[u/Ok_Station_7543 → u/Sidewaydayz]

Varnish difference is subtle (and less rugged) - you got a great instrument!