Thomann Irish Bouzouki M1089-P

I am a guitarist by trade. This is my first bouzouki I've bought, so I cannot comment on how good it sounds compared to other bouzoukis, but I can tell you my impression as a first time buyer.

The finish on the bouzouki is flawless. When plugged in, it sounds good enough for stage performances. I had no feedback problems, and the Eq keeps the instrument sounding natural, which is more to say than for some cheap guitars I've bought. The action was a little high for me but I corrected this by sanding the saddle down until it was at the height i wanted it at. It stays in tune well, but better tuning pegs would help it.

I have recorded this bouzouki in my studio. I bought some strings to allow me to tune it into Eb like on a guitar, the last 4 strings (Db Gb Bb Eb). In my opinion it gives a rustic medieval sound, but that's just me. I've had no intonation problems as the bridge is not fixed and can be moved.

Overall, I think this instrument is more than worth the money. The sound is exactly what I hoped it would be and has helped me create a song. If you would like to hear what it sounds like recorded search for "War Drums Original Song"... on everyone's favorite video website :P. Hopefully that will help your decision in buying it!

I am playing in an Irish Punk band, so, it was quite obvious I'm gonna learn to play a folk instrument. At first, I was to buy a banjo, but then I got to know, this instrument got active electronics added on the top, with quite a low price. I'm totally happy with this bouzouki, cuz made me experiment more than ever, and being more open minded than a regular guitar player!
The most important was to get to know more about Irish folk music, to approach to music more like a folk musician than a rock musician, cuz all great folk punk/or metal bands have the same secret. They keep their minds open.
I was very happy to find a European made Irish Bouzouki with this low price. On the top, it came with a gig bag!!!!

Cheers