Octave Mandolin by Stefan Sobell

Crafted by master luthier Stefan Sobell, this octave mandolin is a rare and exquisite instrument that combines meticulous craftsmanship with a rich, resonant voice. Built in 1980 or 81 with Sobell’s signature attention to detail, it features a slightly arched European spruce top paired with Indian rosewood or African Blackwood back and sides—carefully selected for both tonal depth and visual elegance. Sobell’s distinctive body design gives this octave mandolin an exceptional clarity and sustain, making it ideal for both melody and accompaniment in traditional Irish, Scottish, and contemporary acoustic music. The instrument delivers a warm, open tone with a balanced low end and crisp trebles, equally responsive to flatpicking and fingerstyle playing. The instrument arrived to us with a slump in the soundboard that basically made it unplayable. After much consideration and discussion, we added a shim to the bridge and a soundpost placed in the middle, about an inch below the bridge. Check the video to hear the results. Features include: Hand-carved European spruce top Solid rosewood back and sides Ebony fingerboard and bridge JHS chrome tuners Original wood hardshell case included Stefan Sobell’s octave mandolins are sought after by discerning players and collectors alike for their unique voice, playability, and heirloom-quality build. Each one is a testament to Sobell’s decades-long pursuit of acoustic perfection. Specs: 21 Frets Scale length: 22" Bout: 13 3/8" Depth at soundhole: 3 3/8" Depth at bottom: 3 3/4" Width at nut: 1 1/2" Width at 21st fret: 1 3/4" Total length: 36 1/2"