Seagull S8 Mandolin Demo

I made this in response to a question about inexpensive American-made mandolins (in a mandolin group on facebook). Seagull mandolins are very inexpensive compared to other North-American-made mandos, but not as inexpensive as inexpensive Chinese ones.

[@bornofsource9419]

interesting. they both sound good.

[@WithStringedInstruments]

I used to have one of these. They are very well made, but for some reason the neck was too thick for me and caused my hand pain when I played it. My other two mandolins are more comfortable. The bridge being set into position with two pins is a very good design. I ended up selling it, but I still would recommend it to someone starting out who doesn't have arthritis

[@opiewilcox7728]

❤

[@longtalljay]

Issue is not Chinese make, but the level of mandolin. Kentuckys have a great volume and tone even in their 100 series. I have three of the 200 series, which run about 550 USD.

[@wilkbor]

Thanks for the video. I've noticed recently that Seagull makes another version of the S8. One is priced higher than the other, although I can't tell the difference between the two. Does anyone know?

[@604jroe]

I think it's just with and without electronics. Mine is totally acoustic. If you see knobs on the body of the more expensive one, that would explain it.

[@wilkbor]

@@604jroe Thank you. That would make sense.

[@souloftheage]

Seagull is superior sounding. Has a "tighter" sound: produces a fuller not. Not "tinny" like the Chinese What brand and size of strings do you use? Thanks.

[@604jroe]

The Chinese mando had Elixir 80/20 Medium (11 to 40). I'm afraid I don't know what was on the Seagull at that time, because it was just the strings that were on it when I bought it.

[@thebendu33]

Seagull sounded better

[@g.charles7362]

Which brand of Chine mandolin is it, please?

[@604jroe]

The brand is Alabama, and the model is ALM15.

[@clawhammer704]

Put silk and steel on the seagull for a better sound.

[@kimw6698]

Just bought an s8. Love it bit am new to mando. Should I put different strings?

[@fuckbored4724]

Looks good and sounds great, but seems to be about 600 dollars these days unfortunately.

[@604jroe]

Yeah, I'm glad I got mine a while ago. But if I somehow lost this one, I'd definitely try to replace it with one just like this, at the new price.

[@longtalljay]

Seagulls do not have enough of a body to make a good sound. They only make sense with a good pickup, in which case they are somewhat competing with the Godins.