2014 Northfield S Series NF-F2S Oval Hole Mandolin – Used

This Northfield NF-F2S was made in 2014 and it’s in lightly played condition with just a little fret wear. There is a subtle crazing in the finish on the back that doesn’t show in photographs but you can see if you catch the light just right. We are big fans of oval-hole mandolins here at Gryphon, and love the warm, bubbly tone they produce.The Northfield NF-F2S is one of our favorite examples from a modern builder exploring this venerable style. At first glance it looks like another oval soundhole F-model mandolin, so no big deal. But look again. Note the high soundhole, tucked up beneath the scooped fretboard end, in fact the soundhole is almost underneath the 20th fret.

This allows the bridge to be moved up to the same position on a typical F-5 with f-holes, with the longer neck giving the player two more frets clear of the body. The high soundhole allows the portion of the carved soundboard above the bridge to be fully active, again like an F-5, and the result is the most modern oval hole soundhole yet. You get the sweeter, more open tone of an oval hole mandolin, but with the playability and range of an f-hole mandolin. Includes a hardshell case.