Delve into our comprehensive review of the Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin on the Acoustic Shoppe blog. Explore its blend of tradition and innovation, premium features, and exceptional tonal quality. Perfect for musicians at any level, discover why this mandolin stands out from the crowd.
Introduction
Welcome back to the Acoustic Shoppe Blogge, your ultimate destination for all things acoustic! In today's review, we're excited to delve into the details of the latest offering from Bourgeois – the M5A Blacktop Mandolin. This new edition boasts a striking black finish and brings a fresh perspective to the acoustic mandolin market.
History and Collaboration
The M5A Blacktop Mandolin is the result of a fruitful collaboration between Bourgeois and Eastman. This partnership marries Dana Bourgeois' vision with Eastman's renowned craftsmanship, resulting in a mandolin that stands out both in design and performance. After years of meticulous planning, Dana Bourgeois was finally able to realize his vision with this model. The M5A emerged as the first prototype, featuring an all-torrefied maple back and sides, a torrefied Adirondack spruce top, a slightly wider nut, and a radius fretboard. This combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design elements sets the M5A apart from its peers.
Distinctive Blacktop Design
The Blacktop edition of the M5A harks back to early mandolin designs that featured black tops. This striking black finish is not without precedent, with historical references to early Orville Gibson mandolins sporting black tops. The combination of the black finish and the distinctive back and sides color adds a touch of uniqueness to this model. This nod to tradition, combined with modern enhancements, gives the M5A Blacktop a timeless yet contemporary appeal.
Specs and Features
The Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin comes equipped with premium features that contribute to its exceptional sound and playability:
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Top: Aged Adirondack spruce
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Back and Sides: Aged tone European maple
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Headplate: Ebony with a stunning pearl Bourgeois logo
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Binding: Ivoroid with a 3-ply binding, black ivoroid finish that complements the black top perfectly
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Tuners: Waverly golden age satin tuner set for accurate tuning
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Bridge and Fingerboard: Adjustable ebony bridge and ebony fingerboard for a smooth playing experience
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Truss Rod: One-way truss rod in the neck, which could benefit from a dual-action truss rod for added adjustability
These features ensure that the M5A Blacktop Mandolin is not just visually striking but also a joy to play. One of the standout features of the M5A Blacktop Mandolin is its playability. The radius fretboard and slightly wider nut make it more comfortable for extended playing sessions. The adjustable ebony bridge allows players to customize the action to their preference, ensuring a comfortable and responsive playing experience.
Tone and Sound
In terms of tone, the Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin delivers a well-balanced and sparkling sound. It has a clear and crisp tonal quality that is reminiscent of the high-end Collins Mandolins. The torified woods contribute to its open, mature sound, striking a perfect balance between depth and clarity. This mandolin provides an excellent tonal option for both professionals and enthusiasts who appreciate a balance of warmth and definition. Whether you are playing bluegrass, folk, or classical music, the M5A Blacktop will not disappoint.
Value and Conclusion
When it comes to value, the Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin stands out as a solid contender. Positioned in the mid-range price point, it bridges the gap between high-end Eastman models and boutique mandolins. With its upgraded hardware, torified woods, and expert craftsmanship, it offers a professional-grade instrument that doesn't break the bank. The M5A Blacktop Mandolin is ideal for both amateur and professional musicians. Its combination of traditional design and modern features makes it versatile enough for a variety of musical genres. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, this mandolin will deliver exceptional sound quality.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin brings together tradition and innovation in a unique package. The blacktop design pays homage to historical mandolins while incorporating modern upgrades and features. With its exceptional tone, playability, and value, it's a compelling option for those seeking a professional-grade mandolin without straying into the higher price ranges. Whether you're drawn to its distinctive aesthetics or its impressive sonic capabilities, the M5A Blacktop Mandolin is undoubtedly a noteworthy addition to the acoustic mandolin market.
** Watch the full review and hear the instrument(s) here: Why You Need to Know About the NEW Bourgeois M5A Blacktop Mandolin **
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