“Every day we try to make a better instrument, every day.”
~ Bill Collings (1948-2017)
Collings began building mandolins in 1999, bringing the same Austin, Texas workshop standards that built the acoustic guitar line to a notoriously demanding instrument. The mandolin lineup spans A-style and F-style models - MT, MT2, MF, MF5, and the high-end Mandola and Octave Mandolin variations - each built with carved spruce tops, maple backs and sides, and the kind of fit and finish Collings is known for. Players including Chris Thile, Sierra Hull, and Sam Bush have spent time with them.
The Music Emporium has been Collings' largest dealer worldwide for many years, and our mandolin selection reflects that relationship - including F-style models that are notoriously hard to find in stock anywhere. We know the catalog, we know how each model speaks, and we can help you sort through the options to land on the one that fits your playing.
Collings Mandolins FAQ
Common questions about Collings mandolins - the models, why they are hard to find, and where to play them.
Why is The Music Emporium the place to buy a Collings mandolin?
We have been Collings' largest dealer worldwide for many years, and our mandolin selection reflects that - including F-style models that are notoriously hard to find in stock anywhere. We know how each model speaks and can help you find the right one.
What Collings mandolin models are available?
The Collings mandolin lineup spans A-style and F-style models - the MT, MT2, MF, and MF5 - plus Mandola and Octave Mandolin variations. They are built with carved spruce tops, maple backs and sides, and the precise fit and finish Collings is known for.
Why are Collings F-style mandolins so hard to find?
F-style Collings mandolins are built in limited numbers and in high demand among bluegrass and acoustic players. As Collings' largest dealer, we are one of the few shops that regularly has F-style models in stock.
Which players use Collings mandolins?
Collings mandolins have been played by artists including Chris Thile, Sierra Hull, and Sam Bush, reflecting their standing among the finest mandolins made today.
Can I try Collings mandolins in person near Boston?
Yes. Our showroom in Lexington, Massachusetts - about 20 minutes from Boston - keeps one of the deepest Collings mandolin selections in the world, and players visit from across New England to compare them. Open Monday–Friday 11am–5pm and Saturday 10am–5pm.