Twenty-plus years ago, the Collings MF5 set a new, high bar for the modern, American-made mandolin. It remains a go-to model for discerning pros and amateur mandolin enthusiasts alike. To this day, the one to beat!

We remember fondly when Bill Collings brought us some of the first MF5 models. They had been building A models for a little while, and Bill was in the thick of iterating on the design and sound of the new Collings F model. His passion was contagious, his commitment intense and inspiring. Those were heady days! The MF5 has gone on to become an iconic model, played on stages and in studios around the world, trusted and beloved by countless musicians—many pros, yes, but aspirational amateurs and committed students as well.

This latest MF5 stands as a worthy representative of that lineage. The build quality, fretwork, particularly the attention to finish, are literally second to none. The sound is powerful, with excellent projection and clear, articulate note-to-note separation, great chop, and wonderful overall balance. Its sounds great on their own, but get it in a mix with other instruments, and you'll find it cuts through easily and with stout authority.