[guitarman68]

I had a Gibson F5G for some years, followed by a Collings MF 5 which I played for 16 years, beside a Brentrup M23V. Tried a friend's Collings MF5 Deluxe varnish several times. He still has it for sale. I still love my Collings MF5, but some weeks ago I got my Northfield F 5 Artist VIE. It's a totally different beast and I love it. More mellow and deep sounding. Search for Mike Marshall's comparison of Northfield F5s, and you'll get the idea. Incredible fine mandolin !
Friend of mine bought an octave by Northfield - wonderful.
As far as I know, the artist series models are completely manufactured in Michigan while the octaves and all other mandolins have this China/US history.