Hi Sal..I have played one and I would say I agree with your initial take..not quite as crisp but for a 800.00 solid wood guitar it is hard not to like it...I also would like to try their 12 string they came out with last fall.
I too have thought about trying the Mandolin..is this a one off type thing or a regular program?? I love what St Jude does and would preferably rather the money go there...