While it may have been one of the least fancy options in Bruce Weber's production line, the Hyalite's mellow, woody tone and understated aesthetics have long made it a favourite option for Celtic mandolinists interested in tones and timbres outside of the world of bluegrass and Americana - though I have happily used it for both!
I have owned this Mandolin for over 15 years and am only selling as I have finally upgraded - at a very substantial cost.
This mandolin is signed by Bruce Weber, and made in Belgrade Montana - I’ve tried to show this in the photos - but its a bit tricky…
Due to its mahogany neck, back and sides, the mandolin has a character with more high mids and even-numbered overtones than the naturally snappy and fundamental-heavy sound of maple. The mahogany is given an extra kick in volume via a carved Sitka spruce top, and is finished in a hand-rubbed matte to help promote sustain and richness, especially from the open strings. This 2002 model has opened up nicely and in my experience more than holds its own with new instruments costing considerably more in its playability and tone.
The Hyalite is in excellent condition, lots of life in the frets and no structural damage whatsoever. The top is in good condition and shows no signs of warping or sinking. There are no cracks anywhere on the instrument, and the neck is straight and the action is very light, with a good setup currently strung with D'Addario EJ 74. All parts are original, including the compensated ebony Brekke bridge. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.
I am happy to answer any questions and provide more pictures if required - you are welcome to come and try it out, just message me and we can arrange a time. If you are outside the UK and want the mandolin, message me and we can sort out postage costs.
Specifications
Top: Sitka spruce
Back/Sides/Neck: Mahogany
Body Binding: None
Bracing: Tone bar
Bridge: Compensated ebony Brekke
Fingerboard: Ebony
Nut: 1.09"
Neck Joint: Dovetail
Truss Rod: Two-way adjustable
Peghead Veneer: Ebony
Tuners: Nickel-plated open-gear with pearloid buttons
Scale Length: 14.06"
Finish: Matte
Tailpiece: Cast nickel
Case: Original hard-shell case
This item is sold As-Described
This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.
| Listed | 6 days ago |
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| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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