Meanwhile, Kentucky are amongst the best of the low-end, mass produced pac-rim fare.
Don’t expect a quality mandolin unless you go for something like the KM-1000. Instead, expect a very reasonable starter-intermediate or beater, from an outfit with pretty reliable quality control. If you want a Kentucky, go for the highest up the list you can afford, and make sure it is a solid wood model.
Plenty of people are very happy with Kentucky’s. For more info, follow Simon’s advice about mandolin cafe.