Guitars

Mandolins for Folk, Bluegrass and Celtic Music

The mandolin's bright, sparkling tone is at home in bluegrass, folk, Celtic and country music, and it adds a lovely texture to pop and rock songs too. Karrera offers an affordable traditional acoustic mandolin and an 8-string electric mandolin, so you can choose the sound that suits your playing.

Traditional Acoustic Mandolin

Our traditional mandolin in sunburst gives you the warm, sweet acoustic sound the instrument is loved for, with no amp needed. It is a great choice for beginners and for playing at home or in jam sessions.

8-String Electric Mandolin

Our 8-string electric mandolin in red and black can be plugged into an amp, making it ideal for playing with a band or exploring rock and experimental sounds. Geared tuners help keep it in tune.

How Does a Mandolin Work?

A mandolin has eight strings arranged in four pairs. Each pair is tuned to the same note, G-D-A-E, the same tuning as a violin. That means fiddle tunes transfer directly to the mandolin, and the paired strings give it a rich, shimmering sound.

Explore more folk instruments, including banjos and ukuleles.

Mandolin FAQs

Is the mandolin hard to learn?

The mandolin's short neck makes chord shapes compact and easy to reach, so many beginners pick it up quickly. It is especially easy if you already play violin.

Can a guitarist play the mandolin?

Yes, though the tuning is different. Many guitarists add a mandolin to broaden their sound.