Steven Owsley Smith mandolin/ mandola
This is a rare and beautiful long scaled mandolin/ or short mandola made by Steven Owsley Smith, probably one of the best modern makers around today. His attention to detail is quite incredible.
It has the tone of a much older instrument, and gives the feeling that it has matured and opened up much faster than you would find from a new instrument. If I could choice just one mandolin from my collection this may very well be the one, though the Lyon and Healy has a very special place in my heart.
Here is the Sos next to my Sobell mandolin to give you an idea of size. The slightly longer scale is a very comfortable feel. An amazing instrument from an amazing builder.