[ponoguitar]

We have finally completed our designs, prototypes, and initial production of the new Pono Octave Mandolin/Tenor 8-String Guitar.

In collaboration with our former Ko'olau/Pono employee Kilin Reece, and his first love for the mandolin, this new model was supposed to primarily be an Octave Mandolin. And we believe it is one of the most beautiful sounding Octave mandolins we have heard. Of course we are opinionated about this, but would not have released it if we were not completely satisfied.

We made two sizes, and both incorporate a modified use of our parlor guitars. Of course the only similarity is the body size. Head, neck, bridge, and internal bracing are designed for 8 steel strings. The tonal qualities using a guitar shaped body are completely different from a traditional mandolin design.

The two sizes are small body 11 1/4" wide and 21 1/2" scale, and a large body (like a traditional Tenor Guitar) at 13 5/8" wide, and a 23" scale. As a "mandolin" both are tuned GDAE, and each set of strings tuned in unison. However this new model will service as a multi-purpose instrument. An Octave Mandolin, but also a Tenor 8-String Guitar. About 50 years ago the Martin company made less than five of what they called a Tenor 8 String guitar. And of course, this was due to the interest of Nick Reynolds of the Kingston Trio.

We want to carry on the same tradition, of making unusual and unorthodox instruments. Of course we need to make money, but we are not looking at how many of anything we can make. We build what we like, and hope others agree.
(such as our new 12-string L12 with a body width of 12 1/4").

But back to this Mandolin/Guitar model.

Our new Octave Mandolin/Tenor 8-String Guitar is easily converted either way by simply changing string gauges. As a mandolin tuning is GDAE with string pairs in unison. As a Tenor 8-string guitar, tuned DGBE, #4 and #3 are octave gauges, and #2 and #1 are in unison, somewhat like a 12 string guitar.

Within a day or two we'll have complete photos and videos of each model.

Small Body:
M-20 Mahogany Satin Finish $1199
MD-20 Mahogany Gloss Finish $1499
M-30 Rosewood Satin Finish $1299
MD-30 Rosewood Gloss Finish $1599

Large Body:
MN-20 Mahogany Satin Finish $1349
MND-20 Mahogany Gloss Finish $1649
MN-30 Rosewood Satin Finish $1449
MND-30 Rosewood Gloss Finish $1899

All models are available with a Sunburst Finish, add $150

all prices are US Retail. Dealer discounts may be available.

if you have any questions please call or email