Michael Kelly Guitar Company. Resonating Quality.

What is a dovetail neck joint?

Considering the price, what can I expect of the finish quality?

How do you ship your instruments?

Where are Michael Kelly mandolins made?

I hear that all overseas made mandolins are made in the same factory, is that true?

What upgrades are available for my Michael Kelly mandolins?

Does the one-piece tailpiece effect the sound?

What is the difference between the various Michael Kelly mandolin models?

Do I need a pickguard on my mandolin?

Q: What is a dovetail neck joint?
A: See Our Dovetail page.
^

Q: Considering the price, what can I expect of the finish quality?
A: See our Finish Quality Page.
^

Q: How do you ship your instruments?

A: We ship all of our Michael Kelly instruments by UPS Ground. We do offer expedited shipping options through UPS and Fed Ex. You would pay the actual shipping cost. Please contact us before you order with your zip code so that we can give you a price quote.
^

Q: Where are Michael Kelly mandolins made?

A: We produce our Michael Kelly mandolins in Korea and here in the United States. Most of our mandolins are produced in our own factory in Korea. This includes the Legacy F, Legacy FS, Deluxe and Legacy Firefly. Our Collector's and Master's series are produced by hand in Florida.
^

Q: I hear that all overseas made mandolins are made in the same factory, is that true?

A: It is true that up until several years ago most affordable f-style mandolins were produced in one of only two factories in Korea. However over the last few years much has changed. Several of the top brands have moved their production over to China in an effort to keep costs down. Other major brands continue to have their mandolins produced in one of the two generic mandolin factories in Korea. We produce our Michael Kelly mandolins in our own factory in Korea. This exclusive facility is what has allowed us to offer mandolins that are noticeably different from the cookie-cutter mandolins. We have implemented a production process that is more similar to the classic building methods and specifications of the legendary mandolins of decades long past.
^

Q: What upgrades are available for my Michael Kelly mandolins?

A: Michael Kelly offers two upgrades for its mandolins. The first is a one-piece tailpiece. This makes string changes easier, improves tone and avoids the common rattle created by a typical two-piece tailpiece. The second upgrade is a pickguard. We offer several different shapes and color options.
^

Q: Does the one-piece tailpiece effect the sound?

A: Yes the one-piece tailpiece has several benefits. The solid piece provides added mass and therefore it improves the tone in most people's opinion. It seems to add a little bottom end to the tone. It also allows you to avoid the rattle that is common on all 2 piece tailpieces. Also it makes string changes even easier.
^

Q: Do I need a pickguard on my mandolin?

A: This is totally a matter of personal opinion. For many players the pickguard is unnecessary and often in the way. For others it is essential to protecting their new instrument. This depends mostly on playing style. You should consider your own style and preferences in making this decision. It is possible for you to answer a pickguard later. It only requires some carefully alignment and a single screw hole into the side of the neck.
^