Pricing and availability

Average Price: $3,600

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the Gibson F-12 Mandolin, a masterpiece that resonates with the legacy of bluegrass and folk music. This mandolin, part of Gibson's esteemed lineup, is crafted with precision to ensure every note is rich and resonant. Its carved solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides provide not only stunning visual appeal but also enhance the instrument's acoustic projection and tonal balance. The F-12 is designed for musicians who demand authenticity and quality in their instruments.

This mandolin features a traditional F-style body, which is revered for its classic look and comfortable playability. The neck is crafted from mahogany, offering a smooth playing experience and excellent stability. Whether you're strumming chords or picking intricate melodies, the Gibson F-12 Mandolin delivers a versatile sound that's both bright and full-bodied.

The fingerboard is made from premium rosewood, ensuring durability and a responsive touch. With its striking mother-of-pearl inlays, the fingerboard adds a touch of elegance to this sophisticated instrument. The custom tailpiece not only secures the strings with precision but also adds to the mandolin's distinctive aesthetic.

Ideal for both amateurs and seasoned musicians, the Gibson F-12 Mandolin is a testament to Gibson’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and musical excellence. This instrument is perfect for those who want to explore the rich traditions of mandolin music with a reliable and beautiful piece of gear.

Key Features:

  • Carved solid spruce top for enhanced sound projection
  • Flame maple back and sides for tonal richness
  • F-style body design for classic aesthetics and comfortable playability
  • Mahogany neck for stability and smooth performance
  • Rosewood fingerboard with mother-of-pearl inlays
  • Custom tailpiece for secure string placement and unique design

Product specs

Brand Gibson
Model F-12 Mandolin
Year 1968
Categories Mandolins

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Gibson F-12 Mandolin?

The Gibson F-12 Mandolin is known for its warm, rich tone with a strong midrange presence, making it ideal for bluegrass and folk music. Its construction provides a balanced sound with both projection and subtlety.

Is the Gibson F-12 Mandolin suitable for professional performances?

Yes, the Gibson F-12 Mandolin is considered a high-quality instrument suitable for professional performances. Its craftsmanship and sound quality make it a popular choice among seasoned mandolin players.

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Gibson F-12 Mandolin?

The Gibson F-12 Mandolin typically features a spruce top with maple back and sides, contributing to its bright and resonant sound. This combination of woods is common in mandolins for its tonal benefits.

How does the Gibson F-12 Mandolin compare to other Gibson mandolin models?

The Gibson F-12 is known for its distinctive F-style body and ornate detailing. It offers a different aesthetic and sound profile compared to simpler A-style models, providing a more robust and complex tone.

Is the Gibson F-12 Mandolin a good choice for bluegrass music?

Yes, the Gibson F-12 Mandolin is well-suited for bluegrass music due to its strong projection and clear, articulate sound, which can cut through ensemble playing effectively.

Charles Johnson

Charles Johnson

1965 Gibson F12 Mandolin

Video thumbnail for 1965 Gibson F12 Mandolin by Charles Johnson

1965 Gibson F12 Mandolin

Charles Johnson

Charles Johnson

Reviews

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dave Rawlings uses Gibson F-12 Mandolin

Dave Rawlings

Singer, Guitarist

Dave Rawlings Machine

...
Verified via Photo

According to Premier Guitar, Rawlings uses the Gibson F-12 Mandolin (http://www.premierguitar.com/articles/23231-dave-rawlings-harmonic-monster?page=2).

Genre Usage

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

More Gibson Mandolins

Gibson F5-G Mandolin

$5,999.00 - $6,199.00

# 15

Rank

Marcus Mumford Chris Thile Zac Brown
3 artists using
Gibson F-5G

$5,999.00 - $6,199.00

# 62

Rank

 
Rogue RM-100A Mandolin

$69.99 - $129.99

# 1

Rank

Gene Ween Rob Scallon Zachary M. W. Corsa
5 artists using
Ibanez M510E

$199.00 - $232.00

# 2

Rank

Mauricio Durán Gene Ween Aaron Freeman
4 artists using
Ibanez M510 Mandolin

$180.49 - $199.99

# 6

Rank

Ariza
1 artist using
Washburn M3SWK

$599.00 - $849.99

# 14

Rank

Lil Nas X
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    kkolar
    kkolar

    Gear IQ 120856