Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $1,363

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Crafted with precision and steeped in tradition, the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin is a testament to Eastman’s dedication to quality and artistry. This mandolin brings together solid tonewoods and meticulous craftsmanship for a sound that's as rich and vibrant as it is authentic. The MD515 features a masterfully carved F-style body, utilizing a solid spruce top that responds dynamically to your playing style, ensuring every note is projected with clarity and warmth.

The maple back and sides add a layer of shimmering overtones, creating a balanced tonal landscape that’s perfect for a variety of musical genres, from bluegrass to folk. The mandolin’s Soft V neck profile provides unparalleled comfort, allowing musicians to navigate the fretboard with ease and precision. This thoughtful design not only supports long sessions of play but also enhances overall performance technique.

A hallmark of the MD515 is its F-holes, which deliver a distinctive "chop" favored by bluegrass musicians, ensuring your sound stands out even in the most dynamic ensembles. Finished with an elegant Truetone gloss, the mandolin's aesthetic appeal matches its sonic excellence, making it a choice instrument for both professional and aspiring musicians.

Key Features:

  • F-style body with solid spruce top and maple back and sides
  • Soft V neck profile with an ebony fingerboard for comfortable play
  • F-holes for enhanced sound projection and tonal clarity
  • Bone nut and parallel spruce bracing for superior sound quality
  • Handcrafted Truetone gloss finish with tasteful binding accents

Product specs

Type Acoustic
Body Shape F Style with F holes
Top Material Sitka Spruce
Body Material Maple
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape Soft V
Fingerboard Material Ebony
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 makes the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin suitable for bluegrass music?

The Eastman MD515 features an F-style body with F-holes, which provides the bright, punchy sound favored in bluegrass. Its Sitka spruce top and maple body contribute to its strong projection and clear tone, ideal for ensemble playing.

Is the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin comfortable for extended playing sessions?

Yes, the MD515's soft V-shaped neck and ebony fingerboard offer a comfortable grip and smooth playability, making it suitable for long practice or performance sessions.

Does the Eastman MD515 come with a case?

Yes, the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin comes with a hardshell case, providing protection for transport and storage.

How does the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin compare to an A-style mandolin in terms of sound?

The F-style design of the MD515 typically offers a more focused and cutting tone compared to the warmer, more mellow sound of an A-style mandolin, making it a popular choice for genres like bluegrass.

What type of strings come with the Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin?

The Eastman MD515 is equipped with D'Addario XT Coated Medium strings, known for their durability and balanced tone.

The Acoustic Shoppe

The Acoustic Shoppe

Eastman MD515 Classic F-Style Mandolin Review

Video thumbnail for Eastman MD515 Classic F-Style Mandolin Review by The Acoustic Shoppe

Eastman MD515 Classic F-Style Mandolin Review

The Acoustic Shoppe

The Acoustic Shoppe

Video thumbnail for Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin | Elderly Instruments by Elderly Instruments

Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for Eastman MD515 F Style Classic played by Kylie Kay Anderson | Demo by TFOA Demos

Eastman MD515 F Style Classic played by Kylie Kay Anderson | Demo

TFOA Demos

TFOA Demos

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning color and design make it visually appealing

  • Radiused fingerboard offers comfortable and natural feel

  • Loud and resonant sound, ideal for performances

  • Excellent sustain and earthy tone

  • Lightweight, enhancing playability and feel

  • Comfortable neck shape and rounded edges

  • Easy string changes with cast aluminum tailpiece

  • High-quality craftsmanship and build

  • Projects sound well, suitable for various music genres

  • Compatible with pickups for amplified performance

CONS

  • Case lacking in storage space for accessories

  • Some cases may not fit the instrument properly

  • Heavier headstock typical of F-style mandolins

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Eastman MD515 F-Style Mandolin.

Value and pricing

  • Blemished Eastman MD515 models can be purchased at a discount, with cosmetic flaws reportedly difficult to spot, potentially saving buyers $250.

    Source
  • The MD515V, although slightly over budget for some, is considered worth the extra cost due to its exceptional tonal qualities.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners have noted that the blemishes on discounted models are minor and challenging to identify, implying high attention to cosmetic details even on blemished units.

    Source
  • The varnished model of the MD515 (referred to as the 515V) is noted to have superior sound qualities compared to the standard gloss-finished models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Breedlove mandolins have a wider nut and x bracing, offering a more guitar-like tone compared to the traditional mandolin sound of the Eastman MD515.

    Source
  • Breedlove's neck thickness may not appeal to everyone, suggesting potential buyers should try both models to determine personal comfort preference.

    Source
  • Some owners report that the MD505 can have a noticeably better tone than the MD515, despite being a lower model number.

    Source

User experience

  • Long-time MD305 owners report the MD515 neck feels just right, highlighting continuity in neck feel across the Eastman lineup.

    Source
  • Wrapping the strap just after the nut and under the strings can reduce overtones and improve comfort for certain players.

    Source
  • The MD515V is praised for its improved sound quality that enhances with prolonged playtime, making it a preferred choice for some over the standard 515.

    Source

Other

  • The Mandolin Store is praised for exceptional customer service, enhancing the buying experience for Eastman mandolins.

    Source
  • It's noted that applying pressure with the right arm can help stabilize the instrument, addressing balance issues during play.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users suggest using a strap with more friction or considering a shorter length to combat neck dive issues.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Gigging musicians transitioning from guitar to mandolin may face challenges with instrument positioning, especially when standing.

    Source
  • The MD515 is considered versatile, fitting for genres like bluegrass and Irish folk music, appealing to players exploring multiple styles.

    Source

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