ASR instruments were the brainchild of John R. Montgomery, a former Gibson employee who also helped build some of the early Hamer guitars. ASR built electric guitars and a small number of these Minieball mandolins in the late 1970s and early ’80s. John passed away in 1996.
     Emando.com has existed for more than a quarter of a century, and in all that time this is the only ASR Minieball I’ve seen, let alone had the opportunity to sell. It is beyond rare; I couldn't tell you how many others there are, but it can't be many.
     Serial number 0281. Solid mahogany body with dark red stain. Black top binding. Set neck with truss rod. Rosewood fretboard with zero fret and dot inlays. Standard adjustable mandolin bridge and tailpiece; Schaller tuners; tone and volume controls. Single-coil pickup, likely a Seymour Duncan. There is a switch, but given that the pickup is a single-coil, the switch doesn't seem to have much effect on the tone. Some scuffing and finish crazing, but in good condition overall. Hardshell case included.
     This is an appealing design with echoes of the Harmony Batwing, Gibson F styles, and the "tulip" mandolins built by Chris Eccleshall in the UK. It may appeal to collectors but it's also a respectable player's mandolin. This may well be your only chance to get yourself a Minieball. Hardshell case included.
     See more photos, call 425/772-0231, or for more information. 48-hour approval period. $3,500 plus shipping.