Mike Vanden Guitars and Mandolins

VANDEN F55 MANDOLIN

The F55 mandolin was designed using the 360mm ( 14.17") scale from the Simon Mayor model. This is 8mm longer than the 352mm Gibson scale length. The longer scale gives a more balanced tonal response, with more definition and projection in the mid range, a well balanced bass, and a very sweet treble. Access in the higher positions is also easier.

The F5 body outline is smaller than an A style mandolin with the same 352mm scale. Increasing the F5 body size by approx. 5% ( gives us F55) fits the longer 360mm scale whilst still retaining the overall proportions of the F5. Peghead, rib depth, and fingerboard widths remain the same as my standard F5. Comparing the body dimensions from the list, the F55 sits between the F5 mandolin and the H5 mandola, and is slightly larger than the A mandolin.

The F55 has a greater visual presence than the standard F5, and looks and feels "right".
It is not meant to replace the F5, but an alternative which will suit many players with its sweet tone and improved playability.
So, if you must have the classic Florentine style, AND the longer scale, this is for you.

Darrel Jones, USA, has the very first F55 built. He comments via email:
'The mandolin is absolutely wonderful. I have a hard time figuring out what sounds better on the SM and what on the F55. When we start recording later this year it will come more into focus. The SM is more played-in, but there are overtones that the F55 has that are unique. The vintage Gibson F5 sits in the closet, a fate it does not deserve since it's a wonderful instrument with bark and bite, but it is for me more limiting. So I guess I'm one of the "many players." '

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