❌SOLD❌ Collings MT A-Style Mandolin Gloss Top Sunburst, 2006

The Collings MT A-Style mandolin is the entry point for Collings mandolins, and its lack of decoration doesn’t hide the quality of the instrument or the care with which it was built. This 2006 model sports a satin finish with the ‘Gloss Top’ option, and an ebony arm-rest.

The A-Style mandolin appeared in the closing days of the 19th century as part of Orville Gibson’s revolutionary introduction of violin making principles to mandolin construction.   The results were such a dramatic improvement that the centuries old European bowl-back design almost completely died out in short order.

The Collings MT A-Style as stock – like many Collings instruments custom options are available – uses a carved Engelmann Spruce top paired with Eastern Flame Maple for the sides carved back and neck.   The fingerboard and bridge are Ebony.   Tuners are nickel plated Gotoh models with Ebony buttons,  and the tailpiece is a Collings design.

As  usual for Collings, the finish is very, very good.  The satin sheen over the sunburst helps bring out the flame figure on the carved back – it really looks good.

This Collings MT A-Style was built during 2006 at their shop in Austin, Texas and is in good condition, with light to moderate wear to the frets, with light wear to the finish.  It has a warm, smooth yet clear and crisp tone with a large dynamic range. While these instruments provide great tone at low volumes, they can get quite loud when driven.

The original Collings arched top hard shell case built in Canada by TKL is included.

Here’s the builder on the Collings MT A-Style Mandolin:

“Featuring a premium carved Engelmann spruce top and seasoned figured maple back and sides, the handcrafted MT offers professional level tone and playability in a simple and understated appointment package. An ultra thin all-nitrocellulose lacquer finish and individually graduated tonewoods provide ringing sustain, a wide dynamic range, and impressive responsiveness that can rival instruments at considerably higher price points. The MT is also available with a number of customization options, including ivoroid top binding (as shown), gloss top and peghead, floating pickguard, as well as several color variations to suit your individual taste.”