Kentucky KM1000 Master Model Sunburst 2014

The Kentucky KM1000 Master Model brings the legendary F-style mandolin sound of the 1920s within reach of the modern player. With its hand-carved Adirondack spruce top, flamed maple back, and pre-war style ebony bridge, this mandolin delivers authentic bluegrass tones that take you straight back to the golden age of American folk and country music.

The KM1000 was introduced in the late 1970s as Kentucky's answer to the demand from players and collectors for an affordable mandolin that could match the quality and sound of vintage instruments from the early twentieth century. The F-style design, with its characteristic scroll and pointed body, was originally popularized by legendary mandolin builders and grew to become the sound of bluegrass and American folk. Kentucky succeeded in reproducing this timeless aesthetic and tonal character without the astronomical prices of genuine vintage examples.

With the KM1000, Kentucky combines traditional craftsmanship with modern reliability. The hand-carved Adirondack spruce top with a beautiful recurve provides the clear, projecting sound that makes F-style mandolins so suitable for both rhythmic chopping and expressive melodic lines. The flamed maple back and sides add warmth and sustain, while the V-shaped neck profile, ebony fingerboard, and mother-of-pearl nut ensure the authentic play feel of vintage instruments.

This 2014 KM1000 has accumulated play marks and small dings mainly on the top, and we also find some wear on the back of the body. Overall, however, the mandolin looks neat and offers exceptional value for money with its high-quality materials and excellent build quality. This Kentucky can easily take on much more expensive mandolins!