I have to agree with Brian. I doubt that you'll love the sound later if you don't like it now. It's a shame you live so far away and can't try it with new strings. Where do you live ? Are there any decent stores around ? Have you considered having someone like Elderly or Mandolin Bros ship you something on approval ? They usually give you around 48 hours to try it out before you decide to keep it or not. Keep us posted. I hope you find something you like.