It looks like I’ll be doing some traveling soon and was thinking of getting myself a Weber Sweet Pea Mandolin to amuse myself in airports and hotel rooms
(and as a quiet alternative to my fiddle for picking up tunes at sessions).
Anybody here got one?
and what do you think of it?
How about an electric mandolin? Over on an electric mandolin board that I frequent, these are getting rave reviews:
http://www.eastwoodguitars.com/Other/mandocaster/mandocaster_frm.htm
Looks cool as all getout and unamplified it should be very quiet. Plus, at a really large session you could amp it enough to be heard. Or, go wild and crazy and play it through a fuzzbox, wah-wah pedal etc.
Hi!
I’ve played one, but don’t own one (because I played one). They are nicely made, but a bit pricey IMO. They are not really that much more convenient than a full-sized mandolin for travel. After all, mandolins are pretty small to begin with, especially if you put them in a fitted case instead of a rectangular one. They are however, one trick ponies. They are travel mandos, and that’s all they are. They can’t hold their own against full-size instruments in session.
Good point, and actually why I’d think of getting one.
Thanks for the in put.
Take a look at these critters. I had one for a few years, sold it regretably. They have a quieter sound, and are pretty solid and compact. But if you’re not using a strap for support, the slim body can be hard to hold.
note that the Martin Backpacker mando does not seem to be currently available
it may not be available at elderly, but I know they are out there. Just something for comparison. 
BTW-- I mentioned an electric mando not because of the portability but because unamplified they’re very quiet yet can be amped if you want volume or to play around with the tone.