Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $350
Standard/Professional
$100
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ibanez M522S Mandolin Dark Violin Sunburst". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* 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
Step into the world of folk and world music with the Ibanez M522S Mandolin in a stunning Dark Violin Sunburst finish. This F Style acoustic mandolin is the perfect companion for both traditionalists and modern musicians seeking a blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary playability. The M522S boasts a solid Sitka spruce top, known for its ability to produce clear, resonant tones with a smooth tonal balance. Complementing this are the flamed maple back and sides, which not only add to the visual appeal but also contribute to a robust and vibrant sound.
The mandolin is adorned with elegant pearl fingerboard inlays and chrome tuners with pearl knobs, enhancing its sophisticated look while ensuring tuning stability. The purpleheart bridge and 24 frets offer a smooth playing experience, allowing for intricate melodies and expressive performances. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned musician, the M522S delivers a sound that's rich with history yet versatile enough to fit into any modern ensemble, making it a beloved choice among enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- F Style Mandolin
- Solid Sitka spruce top for rich sound
- Flamed maple back and sides
- Purpleheart bridge
- 24 frets
- Chrome tuners with pearl knobs
- Pearl fingerboard inlays
- Dark Violin Sunburst gloss finish
Product specs
| Type | Acoustic |
| Body Shape | F Style |
| Finish | Gloss |
| Top Material | Solid Sitka Spruce |
| Body Material | Laminated Flame Maple |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Acrylic Blocks |
| Number of Frets | 23 |
| Scale Length | 13.78" |
| Nut Width | 1.181" |
| Bridge Material | Purpleheart |
| Hardware | Gold |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used for the top of the Ibanez M522S mandolin?
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The Ibanez M522S mandolin features a solid Sitka spruce top, which provides a bright and resonant sound, ideal for a variety of musical styles.
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Is the Ibanez M522S mandolin suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Ibanez M522S is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and quality construction, making it easier to learn and produce a great sound.
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What is the body shape of the Ibanez M522S mandolin?
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The Ibanez M522S mandolin has an F-style body shape, which is popular for its distinctive scroll and bright, punchy tone, often favored in bluegrass music.
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Does the Ibanez M522S mandolin come with a case or gig bag?
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No, the Ibanez M522S mandolin does not include a case or gig bag, so you may want to purchase one separately to protect your instrument.
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What is the finish of the Ibanez M522S mandolin?
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The Ibanez M522S mandolin features a high-gloss finish in a Dark Violin Sunburst color, enhancing its visual appeal and durability.
Reviews
PROS
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Beautiful and appealing design
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Great tone and sound quality
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Fast action for easy playability
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Suitable for beginners and experienced players
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Economical option without compromising quality
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Well-built and durable construction
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Ideal for a variety of musical styles
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Reliable choice for gigging musicians
CONS
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Finish flaws and blemishes noted by some buyers
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Some users experience tuning stability issues
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Requires setup adjustments out of the box
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Difficult tailpiece cover removal
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Neck might feel too skinny for some players
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez M522S Mandolin Dark Violin Sunburst.
Setup and maintenance
User experience
Comparisons
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At $200 with a case, this mandolin is considered a bargain for an F-style instrument compared to new prices around $330.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings
498
Country Soul
I was recently blown away by Ken Burns Documentary on Country Music. I love many different kinds of music and to me country is very closely intwined with The Blues. It is a true American invention born out of influences from the American Heartland, Ireland and other places. I marveled at film of Ricky Skaggs as a child playing Mandolin with Bill Monroe, Marty Stuart's fingers racing over the neck of his Mando playing with Lester Flat. It brought to mind John Sebastian's line from the Lovin' Spoonful's "Nashville Cats" - "been playin' since theys babies..." I've decided to pick it up and see how I do. This Ibanez is touted as a really nice beginner or intermediate player's Mandolin. The craftsmanship seems very nice for the price and the tone is beautiful.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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