some korean maker made cheap mandolins. recently i played korean violin maker's brand new $150 mandolin, tear drop shape like a-50, and surprised its cost performance. i don't know more detail about the maker and if it is available in the us or not. try ask your musical instrument dealer about korean source new mandolin. the key point is that the maker is making violin or not. guitar maker: aria's mando also made in korea and have so-so price. hope this helps.-takeo.