Washburn Adds New Banjo and Mandolin Models to Bluegrass Line

December 2005 - Chicago, IL. Washburn is pleased to announce two new additions to its line of Bluegrass instruments. A new Banjo, the B160, and a new Mandolin, the M120, will make their debut at this Winter's NAMM in Anaheim.

Played by National Banjo Champion, Sonny Smith, the Washburn B160 features a rosewood fret board for superior tone and playability. The banjo has a 3 ply solid maple rim, with a Flame Maple Ply resonator, ensuring quality projection and tone. The headstock of the instrument features a White pearl "Washburn" inlay.

The M120 Mandolin is currently being played by Bluegrass Legend, Richie Owens. The Mandolin features a traditional F-style body with a solid spruce top. The body is a carved, solid, flamed maple that has a beautiful sunburst finish. The 24 fret neck, bridge, and saddle are all made out of ebony, producing a superior tone, only suitable for a player as demanding as Owens. Lastly, the Washburn M120 features gold plated hardware, and Mother of Pearl inlays.

David Karon, Director of Artist Relations comments, "We are pleased to have Sonny and Richie on our roster, and we are looking forward to other artist responses we get from these innovative new products."

Washburn Guitars is owned by US Music Corp located just north of Chicago. US Music Corp. is a uniquely positioned, fully integrated musical instrument company that manufactures and markets instruments, accessories and audio equipment for professionals, aspiring professionals, collectors, hobbyists and beginner musicians. Also owned by US Music Corp are Parker Guitars, Randall Amplifiers, Eden Amplifiers, SoundTech Professional Audio, Oscar Schmidt, Lyon Musical Instruments and Mojo Strings.

For more information on Washburn Guitars go to www.washburn.com.

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