Kentucky KM-140 vs KM-150 Mandolin

October 10, 2016

You have probably been reading a ton of great things about the Kentucky KM-150 mandolin and wondering how the KM-140 stacks up. Since 140 is only 10 less than 150, they should be close, right? Your thinking is correct, they are actually pretty close, but don’t go clicking the buy button on that KM-140 mandolin just yet! There are also some differences you will want to know about.

They sure look the same in photos. In fact, looking at them head on, you are not going to be able to tell them apart. Your eyes are not fooling you. Everything you are seeing is identical, because nothing on the front side of these two mandolins differ.

Flip it around and you may still have trouble seeing the difference if you are not paying close attention. Thats because the difference between the Kentucky KM-140 vs the KM-150 is that the 140 has a laminated back and sides and the KM-150 uses solid woods for the back and sides. That is it. That is the only difference.

Now that we know the difference, what does this mean as far as tone goes? It means that the KM-150 does have better tone compared to the KM-140. The top has the most influence on tone, and both have a solid, carved spruce top. The back and sides do come into play to a lessor degree and you can hear it. It is not a night and day difference.

The playability will be the same on both as is all of the specifications. So what is the final verdict on the Kentucky KM-140 vs KM-150 mandolin?

If you appreciate good tone, the KM-150 does have the advantage here. If you would like to save a few bucks and still get a nice mandolin you wouldn’t do wrong with the KM-140. That pretty well sums it up!

We sell both of these mandolins and set them up here in our shop. They are also available on amazon and typically at lower prices than we offer. We are providing links for both.

Folkmusician

Amazon

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Also in mandolin

A-Style Mandolin Kentucky Mandolin Oval Hole

Kentucky KM-276 Oval Hole Mandolin

August 11, 2018 1 Comment

Say hello to the new Kentucky KM-276 model! As many of you know, this is not an entirely new mandolin, but instead a new color option for players that prefer a more organic look. This is based on the popular KM-270 Oval hole mandolin.

Mandolin Pickup

Best Mandolin Pickup K&K vs Radius vs Fishman

March 27, 2018

We are always being asked what the best mandolin pickup is. Being familiar with these and having installed hundreds over the years, a few have risen to the top. All three of these recommendations are passive pickups. While there are several other good options, these should be at the top of your list.

Electric Mandolin

Ovation Mandolin Reviews and Buyers Guide

March 15, 2018

The main reason you are going to buy an Ovation mandolin is obviously the pickup. If not it should be. These are not the best sounding acoustic mandolin made, but on stage they are in their element. Need to add some mandolin to your high-volume rock band?

Footer

Sign Up for our Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and always be the first to hear about what is happening.

About Folkmusicain

Since 1999, Folkmusician has been serving up the best values in acoustic instruments. From our shop to customers the world over, quality and service is our promise to you.