From an acknowledged master of larger-bodied mandolin family instruments, Smart's F-style, short-scale octave mandolin combines sublime tone with effortless playability.

This is the second Smart florentine octave mandolin we have had the pleasure of hosting. Both have been remarkably good instruments. Of course, Lawrence Smart is renowned not only for his mandolins, but especially for his lower-register mandolin-family instruments. Those larger, lower-tuned models play into his voicing strengths, and are always enticing instruments to play.

The Smart octave boasts a rich, harmonically complex voice, with that characteristic Smart warmth and easy responsiveness. There is a lot to love here, even setting aside the fact that this is a scroll F octave, a rare sighting in itself. The short scale length makes for a very inviting playing experience.