Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $3,450
High-end/Boutique
$100
$501+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin is a testament to the art of traditional craftsmanship infused with modern precision. This artisan-level instrument is crafted for the discerning musician who demands nothing but the best in sound and build quality. Hand carved from the finest solid Adirondack spruce and highly figured Michigan maple, the KM-1500 mirrors the revered mandolins of the early 20th century, delivering unparalleled tonal clarity and projection.
Its graceful Cremona sunburst finish is a visual nod to its vintage lineage, complemented by gold-plated, engraved tuning machines and a delicately inlaid abalone fern. The Kentucky logo, nestled just above the intricate inlay, speaks to the authenticity and heritage embedded in each strum. With an ebony extension fingerboard featuring pearl dot position markers, and a mother-of-pearl nut, every detail is meticulously designed for optimal playability.
Whether you're performing a solo or blending into a larger ensemble, this mandolin's voice is as vibrant as its craftsmanship. The KM-1500 doesn't just keep tradition alive; it elevates it, making every note a journey through time.
Key Features:
- Finest solid, hand-carved and graduated Adirondack spruce top
- Solid, flat-sawn highly-flamed hand-carved and graduated Northern Michigan maple back
- One-piece, highly figured maple neck with dovetail joint at the 15th fret, 29 frets total
- Ebony extension fingerboard with pearl dot position markers
- Ivoroid binding on all edges
- Peghead overlay with Kentucky logo and traditional fern inlay in abalone pearl
- Vintage style, height-adjustable ebony bridge with compensated top and small, gold-plated adjustment wheels
- Mother-of-pearl nut
- Highly polished nickel-silver frets
- Gold-plated, engraved tuning machines and tailpiece
- Hand-rubbed Cremona sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- Shop adjusted
- Includes a gig bag
Product specs
| Brand | Kentucky |
| Model | KM-1500 Master F-Style Mandolin |
| Finish | Vintage Sunburst |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Mandolins |
FAQs
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What materials are used in the construction of the Kentucky KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin?
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The Kentucky KM-1500 features a handcarved Adirondack spruce top and a highly-flamed Northern Michigan maple back. The neck is made from a one-piece, highly figured maple, and the fingerboard is crafted from ebony with pearl dot markers.
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How does the Kentucky KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin compare in sound to other mandolin styles?
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The F-style design of the KM-1500 generally provides a brighter, louder sound with greater projection compared to A-style mandolins, which are known for their warmer tones.
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What type of finish does the Kentucky KM-1500 Mandolin have?
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The Kentucky KM-1500 features a hand-rubbed Cremona sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer finish, providing a vintage aesthetic and enhancing the natural beauty of the wood.
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Is the Kentucky KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin suitable for professional use?
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Yes, the KM-1500 is designed as a high-end mandolin with professional-grade features, including handcarved woods, a dovetail neck joint, and high-quality hardware, making it suitable for both recording and live performances.
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Does the Kentucky KM-1500 Mandolin come with a case?
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Yes, the Kentucky KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin includes a gig bag for protection and easy transportation.
Videos
Mandolin629
Mandolin Brothers: Kentucky KM-1500
Reviews
PROS
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Stunning craftsmanship, echoing the classic Gibson F 5 Fern design
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High-quality materials and build at a fraction of the Gibson price
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Once properly set up, delivers excellent tone and playability
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Known for beautiful workmanship and close attention to detail
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Offers a strong alternative to more expensive mandolin models
CONS
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Requires extensive initial setup for optimal sound and playability
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Supplied bridge often not properly fitted to the body
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Advertised "deluxe case" often substituted with a lower-end model
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Inconsistent initial sound quality; needs time to "open up"
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"Made in China" sticker placement marring the finish when removed
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May lack desired "bark and bite" in sound for some players
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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About 10 minutes into the video, Al Jourgensen can be seen using the Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin, as evidenced by the image provided.
Mauricio Durán used the Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin during the recording and throughout the MTV Unplugged tour with Los Bunkers. This can be verified in the acapella section of the MTV Unplugged performance of Los Bunkers, Additionally, Durán confirms the model in an Instagram reel where he showcases his equipment for the acoustic tour. https://www.instagram.com/losbunkersoficial/reel/DJvCzRXuF22/
Album Usage
The Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin has been featured on the following albums:
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 Kentucky Mandolins KM-1500 Master F-model Mandolin, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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