Powerful Adirondack spruce-topped A-5 from Lawrence Smart. This is the second of a pair of A models Lawrence just sent us. Both are potent examples of why so many top-flight players own Smart instruments. Clean workmanship with an earthy aesthetic that conveys the look and feel of a handmade instrument. Credit the Adirondack spruce and Lawrence's top carve for the big dynamic range on tap here. Dig in and there is great volume and cut available; back off and the mandolin still rings beautifully. Nice, slightly fuller neck carve is a welcome touch for players who double on guitar or just prefer a tiny bit more mass in the neck. (Yep, that'd be me.)

• Adirondack Spruce
• Red Maple
• Varnish finish
• Ebony fingerboard, bridge, and pickguard
• Rubner tuners
• Engraved, James tailpiece
• Ivoroid binding
• Hoffee case
• Serial 332