I have an octave mandolin built by Peter Cox of Midland, Ontario. Doesn't look like much -- Cox often goes for the minimalist look -- but it has a firm, resonant sound with lots of snap. It's made with cherry back and sides, red cedar top, and mahogany (of course) neck, with a maple fretboard. It cost me $750, tax included, out of PC's tent at the 2005 Celtic Roots Festival in Goderich, Ontario.