Under $300

• The teardrop shape identifies an A-style mandolin. Note the f-shaped holes.Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
  
  The Kentucky 140S (not the 140) A-style provides outstanding value for the beginner. Made from solid wood, the 140S eclipses similarly priced models made of laminates.
  
  

Around $500

• Kentucky scores in this category as well, producing several models to meet a player's needs. The KM 505 Artist series stands as an exceptional value for its playability and tone. The K620 wins as best F-style mandolin in this economical grouping.
  
  

Between $600 and $1,000

• The $600 to $1,000 level raises the bar from lower price models made in factories sacrificing craftsmanship for lower cost. Big Muddy mandolins (formerly Mid Missouri) earned their reputation for producing wonderful-sounding instruments at the softer end of this price point. Eastman also handcrafts mandolins renowned for their quality and performance, generally priced at the upper end of this bracket.
  
  

$1,000 to $1,500

• The cost of professional mandolins can soar to between $2,500 and $3,000 or above. Thankfully, many exceptionally made instruments can be found for half of those gaudy expenditures. Breedlove mandolins, popular with musicians, demonstrate amazing value in looks, sound and playability. The Aspen 2 model by Weber allows players a choice at this price point from a manufacturer usually producing instruments in the $4,000 to 5,000 range.
  
  

Vintage and Used Mandolins

• The used and vintage marketplace often offers superb deals on mandolins. Quality instruments can show up in online auctions and pawn shops. Buyers can mine good value from vintage models as well. One needs to be knowledgeable and do research in this area to find the best values in mandolins.