Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$1,199.00
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$1,199.00
Reverb
4.0 (6)
$1,105.85 New
$749.99 Used

Average Price: $1,063

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Eastman MD-505". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover the warmth and vibrant resonance of the Eastman MD-505, an A-style mandolin thoughtfully crafted for musicians who value both tradition and performance. This mandolin blends handcrafted artistry with modern playability, making it a favorite among both seasoned professionals and aspiring hobbyists. The MD-505's solid Sitka spruce top pairs harmoniously with solid maple back and sides, creating a rich, dynamic sound that's perfect for bluegrass and beyond. The F-shaped soundholes are more than just a visual delight—they produce a percussive clarity that ensures your sound cuts through any ensemble.

The Eastman MD-505 features a comfortable "Soft V" neck profile, providing excellent support and reducing hand fatigue, making it ideal for long sessions on stage or in the studio. Its elegant, vintage-inspired gloss finish and bound body and fingerboard are a testament to Eastman's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. With an ebony fingerboard and bridge, the mandolin delivers smooth playability and striking aesthetics, while the pearl headstock logo and Truetone gloss finish add a touch of classic elegance.

Whether you're strumming solo or jamming in a band, the Eastman MD-505 offers the sound, style, and playability to inspire your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • A-style body with F-holes for a perfect blend of comfort and assertive tone
  • Solid Sitka spruce top with solid maple back and sides for a warm, resonant sound
  • Handcrafted with a vintage-inspired Truetone gloss finish
  • "Soft V" neck profile with an ebony fingerboard for easy, comfortable play
  • Premium body and fingerboard binding with an ebony bridge
  • Resonant bone nut and parallel spruce bracing for a mature, professional tone

Product specs

Type Acoustic
Body Shape A Style with F holes
Finish Truetone Gloss
Top Material Sitka Spruce
Body Material Maple
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape Soft V
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 24
Scale Length 13.88"
Nut Material Bone
Nut Width 1.09"
Bridge Material Ebony
Tuners Quality Open Geared
Hardware Nickel
Strings D'Addario XT Coated Medium, .011-.040
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Eastman MD-505 mandolin?

The Eastman MD-505 mandolin features a Sitka spruce top and a maple body, providing a bright and resonant tone suitable for various musical styles.

What is the neck profile of the Eastman MD-505 mandolin?

The Eastman MD-505 has a soft V neck profile, offering comfortable playability for both chordal and melodic playing styles.

Does the Eastman MD-505 mandolin come with a case?

Yes, the Eastman MD-505 mandolin includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.

What kind of strings are equipped on the Eastman MD-505 mandolin?

The Eastman MD-505 mandolin comes with D'Addario XT Coated Medium strings, which are known for their durability and balanced tone.

Is the Eastman MD-505 mandolin suitable for beginners?

The Eastman MD-505 is well-suited for both beginners and experienced players, offering quality craftsmanship and a comfortable playing experience.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Eastman MD-505.

Setup and maintenance

  • Use a thick, soft flannel cloth for cleaning to avoid micro splinters causing splits; microfiber can snag and damage the finish over time.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MD-505 was chosen over the MD-305 for its brighter, louder sound, highlighting a tonal difference between these models.

    Source
  • The Eastman MD-505 is noted for offering more tonal depth compared to The Loar mandolins, which some find thin and tinny in sound.

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  • Eastman MD-505 is often preferred over The Loar LM-700 for its construction quality, despite the latter's classic appearance and comparable playability.

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  • A user preferred the MD505 over the MD515 for better tone, highlighting Eastman's variable quality across models even within the same series.

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  • The MD515V varnished model is noted for its superior sound compared to the gloss finish, suggesting tonal benefits of the varnish.

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User experience

  • An owner found the MD-505 superior after returning two other unsuccessful brands, indicating satisfaction with its quality and performance.

    Source
  • Owners frequently recommend the MD-505 for its balanced sound across multiple genres including Irish, rock, and bluegrass.

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  • One owner traveled extensively to test Eastman mandolins due to limited availability in the UK, emphasizing the importance of trying instruments before purchasing.

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Use cases and applications

  • For gigging musicians, the MD-505 is recommended for its reliable performance in small venues and compatibility with electric setups.

    Source
  • The MD505 is praised for its sound and aesthetics, often receiving compliments from listeners, making it suitable for both performance and visual appeal.

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  • An owner reported using the MD305 for gigs over six years, implying its durability and value for long-term performance use.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite some preferences for more visually striking instruments, the MD-505 is consistently praised for its quality at its price point.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Turner uses Eastman MD-505

Josh Turner

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Taken from the comments section of his Little Wing video

"correct. MD-505! Thanks."

See how Fred Tackett uses Eastman MD-505

Fred Tackett

Guitarist, Composer

Little Feat

...
Verified via Photo

Fred Tackett can be seen in the photo playing an Eastman MD-505 mandolin.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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