Page "Mandolin" Paragraph 15

These styles generally have either two f-shaped soundholes like a violin ( F-5 and A-5 ), or an oval sound hole ( F-4 and A-4 and lower models ) directly under the strings.

Much variation exists between makers working from these archetypes, and other variants have become increasingly common.

Generally, in the United States, Gibson F-hole F-5 mandolins and mandolins influenced by that design are strongly associated with bluegrass, while the A-style is associated other types of music, although it too is most often used for and associated with bluegrass.

The F-5's more complicated woodwork also translates into a more expensive instrument.

In Ireland and Britain, flat top and back instruments are often used.