Malcolm Manning wasn't building accordions anymore when I saw him last year, but he still repairs and tunes them.
Where are you in the UK, Paul? I have 4 accordions by different builders (all Louisiana builders) you can have a look at if you want to get the idea of how they feel.
I would recommend buying from Louisiana rather than Europe (Eric Martin etc.) not because they are inferior builders, but because the pound is so strong against the dollar they are cheaper.
The accordion I bought last year worked out at just short of £1000 (including shipping and import taxes), about the same as the one I bought 17 years ago when the dollar was much stronger.
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Quality Cajun accordions in UK
Paul
I'm in Darwen (near Blackburn) if you ever make it up this way you are welcome to try out my boxes.
I've a Martin (Jnr not Eric), Acadian, Bon Cajun, and an Anthony Falcon.
I know one or two European players have replaced Castagnaris and Eric Martins with Louisiana boxes so I assume there must be a difference but I guess you'll only know by comparing them.
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Quality Cajun accordions in UK PHIL
I think my name might be familiar because I think you've asked me the question before on the forum.
I used to play with an American Old Time square dance band and played the odd Cajun tune on accordion, but I mainly played 5 string. I have never played with a full blown Cajun band.