Well...you are dead right about "starter" instruments...That word generally means "crap"....!! Do you want an F-style, A-style or Celtic or .....?? There'sa few horses-for-courses out there! I'd have thought there were many makers in your part of the world with suitable items..Have you tried "Weber"..."Collins".. (I have an MT2), Tacoma...Fursch... Prusch.. Try "The Acoustic Music Co" in UK....He has more than Mando Bros in stock... Go to Mandolin Cafe ..Fylde Guitars and Oakwood Instrumentsin UK..really the list is endless if you do a bit of research...Use "Ask Jeeves" etc...Out there is waiting your ideal piece of kit...
                      Good luck and dont give up....
                        Regards to all.....Spot