The Northfield A5 Special is aptly named, as it is indeed a special instrument. This is Northfield’s first A-style mandolin and it has all of the sonic power and attention to cosmetic detail that we have come to expect from them. This mandolin has a couple of unique features that set it apart from their Standard Series. It has a hand-carved master grade Italian spruce top that is paired with nicely figured sugar maple back and sides. It also has a spirit varnish finish, a thin finish that many players feel allows the wood to vibrate more freely. This is a wonderful sounding mandolin with a chop that is powerful enough to drive a bluegrass band but it still has a sweet tone that works well for jazz or Celtic styles.