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Description

The Gibson Flatiron Mandolin is a beautifully crafted instrument that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern performance. Known for its rich, warm tones, this mandolin is perfect for both seasoned musicians and enthusiastic newcomers to the world of folk and world music. Handcrafted with care, the Gibson Flatiron Mandolin features a solid spruce top that ensures excellent sound projection and resonance, making it a superb choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

Its maple back and sides add brightness and clarity to its tonal character, while the mahogany neck offers a smooth playing experience for those intricate finger-picking patterns. With its distinctive carved top and classic F-style design, this mandolin not only sounds great but also stands out visually on any stage.

Gibson’s attention to detail is evident in the high-quality tuners and the durable finish, ensuring that you stay in tune and your mandolin looks pristine for years to come. Whether you’re strumming along to bluegrass tunes or exploring new musical territories, the Gibson Flatiron Mandolin provides a reliable and inspiring platform for your musical journeys.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top for enhanced tone and projection
  • Maple back and sides for bright and clear sound
  • Mahogany neck for comfortable playability
  • F-style design for classic aesthetic appeal
  • High-quality tuners for precise tuning stability
PhilFeedback

PhilFeedback

Dixie played on a Gibson flatiron mandolin

Video thumbnail for Dixie played on a Gibson flatiron mandolin by PhilFeedback

Dixie played on a Gibson flatiron mandolin

PhilFeedback

PhilFeedback

Video thumbnail for Gibson flatiron mandolin that I got at the Gibson Bluegrass Showcase in Nashville Tennessee by PhilFeedback

Gibson flatiron mandolin that I got at the Gibson Bluegrass Showcase in Nashville Tennessee

PhilFeedback

PhilFeedback

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Flatiron Mandolin.

Build quality

  • Late 90s Flatirons, especially those made in Nashville and signed by Danny Roberts, are considered exceptional in their price range.

    Source
  • Pre-Gibson Flatiron A-styles, signed by Steve Carlson, are noted for their reliable quality and reasonable pricing, especially the Jr. models.

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  • The serial number system changed after the Gibson acquisition, indicating significant transitions in production locations and timelines.

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Comparisons

  • Post-Gibson acquisition Flatiron mandolins are noted for being a great value compared to other high-end models.

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User experience

  • Owners of the Flatiron F5 Artist from different years report a strong reluctance to sell due to their lasting quality and sentimental value.

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Features and functionality

  • Some Nashville-made Flatirons feature a signature by Danny Roberts, adding to their desirability among enthusiasts.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A mandolin from 1997, marked as handmade in Belgrade, MT, might need a fresh setup to maintain its optimal sound.

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Value and pricing

  • Pre-Gibson Flatiron A-style mandolins, especially those produced just before the takeover, are viewed as good buys due to their consistent quality.

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Other

  • The serial number system at one point used the first and last digit to indicate the year, affecting dating accuracy for models from the late 90s to early 2000s.

    Source
  • A 2001 Performer A is described as "croaky" but notably loud in bluegrass settings, suggesting unique tonal characteristics for A-style mandolins from this era.

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  • David Benedict, noted mandolin player, has aspects of his custom Apitius mandolin designed to mimic the feel of a Flatiron, indicating the Flatiron's influence on high-end custom builds.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Peter Buck uses Gibson Flatiron Mandolin

Peter Buck

Guitarist

R.E.M.

...
Verified via reverb.com

"I've got a Flat Iron I've been using since '89"

See how Sean Watkins uses Gibson Flatiron Mandolin

Sean Watkins

Guitarist

Nickel Creek

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video of Nickel Creek preforming "For All It's Worth", Sean Watkins is clearly observed playing a Gibson Flatiron Mandolin, most easily seen at 1:29 into the video, however the headstock of the instrument is seen more clearly from various other angles.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson Flatiron Mandolin, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Gibson Les Paul Goldtop
Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

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