We've come across a stunning pair of Rigel "R" series instruments for sale, an R-100 mandolin and big sister R-200 Mandola, literally made from the same hunk of wood. The seller has listed these in the MandolinCafe.com online Classifieds, and we were intrigued. According to the seller, this is their story:

Click pictures for closeup view

I met Peter Mix when living in Vermont and went to Meet Pete Langdell and see the small shop when it was in Hyde Park, VT. The shop was a friendly sun-lit beehive. The whole concept of the Rigel, the various stages of construction was great to see. I spent some time in the back room playing different styles of mandolin and loved the whole pure sound of the R-100. Pete and Peter played some too to make sure I heard the true sound. The idea of a custom set came from that meeting.

The design on the head of the mandos was an experimental design based on the star, Rigel. I waited several months until they could find a suitable piece of birds eye maple large enough to make both instruments. The mandolin was born first, the mandola came a good 6 months later. Both instruments have had very light use, due to some joint problems that kept me from playing any instruments for a few years. I love them dearly and want them to find a good home."

The seller's $5500 asking price is really is a decent buy for this kind of "Collector's" set. We've yet to be disappointed by a Rigel "R" series instrument. These two are especially stunning visually; let us know if you become the new lucky owner!

View Classifieds ad: Custom Rigel R100 Deluxe Mandolin And R200 Mandola

Posted by Ted at November 17, 2009 5:15 AM