I’m new to the forum and would like to hear your opinions.
I’m looking to buy a four-course bouzouki, with a budget of €500–800.
I’m not completely new to the bouzouki, but I stopped playing for quite a few years, and I’d like to have an instrument that’s comfortable to play and makes me want to pick it up.
At this price point, I can’t think of anything other than a Matsikas, so I’d also like to hear your recommendations if you know of anything better from other luthiers. I’m not sure whether there are any options from makers other than Matsikas and Stamko within this budget.
There has been no response to the query. Does anyone have any suggestions? Even a thread where similar questions have been asked, which I may have missed.
Good evening. Although I don’t know much about the prices of four-string instruments, I believe these two options, Stamkos and Matsikas, are the best available at this price. Of the two, Stamkos would be my first choice, followed by Matsikas. Their instruments are reliable, though. Welcome to the forum. Do have a look around, though—there are quite a few threads about instruments that should give you some ideas.
Hi there, mate. First of all, welcome to the forum. Given your budget, bear used instruments in mind too. You might find something really worthwhile. The forum also has a classified ads section, so you could have a look there as well.
Your friend Johnkosguit is encouraging you to take a look at the «Classifieds» section on our forum. Alternatively, I suggest that you post a «classified ad» yourself, asking for the four-course bouzouki you’re looking for.
Yes, I’ve thought about it and I might do that, but I thought I’d first see what options are available, whether new or even second-hand, listed on various platforms. (So far, I haven’t found any second-hand ones that fit what I’m looking for.)
I’m definitely looking around Attica so I can try it out and see it in person!
Also try the instrument maker Thodoris Gkolias in Trikala. I have one of his instruments in the price range you mentioned, and it’s exceptionally good value for money.
You can see and hear it here:
As several people above have said (and you yourself said), Matsikas and Stamkos are pretty much the only realistic options for a new instrument at that price. After that, you’re looking at second-hand.
So if you want to find something new apart from the two mentioned, go round all the makers, regardless of their reputation, and try out their instruments. You’ll find some bargains; it just takes time, patience and luck. Also, since your budget is limited and „good“ sound is subjective, this search will be useful in helping you understand whether the sound you’re looking for is available at this price.
Giolias in Trikala is very good. If possible, please take a look. However, how long will he have to wait? I think I saw some that were almost ready last time.
At that price, Stamkos is your best bet! I don’t own one of his instruments, but the ones I’ve seen in that price range are just what you’re looking for: easy to play and with a decent sound!.
