
About The Big Mon
Since 2009, the Northfield Big Mon has been a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts looking for both power and nuance.
The design thoughtfully expands on traditional F5 proportions to create an instrument with greater range and projection while preserving the responsiveness and style of the classic F5 format.
The Big Mon Body Size
The Big Mon features a subtly enlarged body—just 5mm wider at its widest point with proportional adjustments throughout.
While the visual difference is subtle, the acoustic impact is immediate: more responsiveness, better projection, and that distinctive "throaty growl" the Big Mon is known for.
In short, the Big Mon simply gives you more of everything people already love about Northfield's signature "played-in" tone.
Premium Materials
Choose your tonal character with either Engelmann spruce for warmth and complexity or Adirondack spruce for power and projection. Both pair beautifully with highly figured maple back and sides, creating instruments that are as visually striking as they are sonically impressive.
Built to professional standards with scroll inlay, full body binding, ebony fingerboard and bridge, and Northfield's beautiful high-gloss hybrid varnish finish.
Marshall, Michigan Quality Control
Each instrument receives meticulous setup and final inspection before leaving Northfield's shop in Michigan. This includes professional adjustment of string height, intonation, and neck relief to optimize playability and tone.
About Dry Creek Music
Building on a tradition that started in 1972, Dry Creek Music is owned and operated by me, Sean Ramsey. After more than a decade in the music business, I'm now operating as an online shop specializing in Northfield mandolins.
To learn more, check out the history of Dry Creek Music.
My goal is to help you find the right instrument while keeping the process relaxed and pressure-free. I know that buying a high-end instrument is a big decision, so don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions.
Why Buy From Dry Creek Music?
- Dry Creek Music is a one-person operation. When you call, text, or email, you'll always be working directly with me
- Since I operate online, your instrument won't have shop wear from regular handling by walk-in traffic. All instruments are stored in their cases in a humidity-controlled environment until they're ready to ship to their new home
- Before shipping, I personally inspect and detail each instrument, double-check the setup and intonation, and can adjust the action to your preferences
- Fast, easy 0% financing available at checkout with PayPal Credit
- Secure online checkout powered by Shopify, a trusted platform used by thousands of businesses
Setup
Northfield mandolins come from the factory with an excellent setup, but I always inspect it carefully before shipping to make sure it's still right to Northfield's specs.
The Northfield factory setup is, in my opinion, the Goldilocks of playing action: not too high, not too low. You won't struggle to fret difficult chords, but you can dig in without buzzing or rattling.
I'm always happy to make tweaks to suit your playing style before shipping, but I'd encourage you to try the factory setup first. Most players find it very comfortable.
Airloom Tūra Carbon Fiber Case
Every Big Mon now includes Northfield's Airloom Tūra case in gloss white.
The shell is carbon fiber, making it the strongest case Northfield has built while weighing just 5.5 pounds.
It's slim enough to carry onto a plane and fits most overhead bins. A gasket around the lid provides moisture and temperature protection.
Inside, the mandolin sits in a padded cavity lined with "Pinot Red" crushed velvet, under an arched lid. A large storage compartment below the neck rest offers space for picks, tuners, and other accessories.
Outside, the Tūra has briefcase-style latches, a leather handle, replaceable feet, and D-rings with backpack straps.