Michael Kelly - bridge installed?

[beatlenut]

I'm thinking of picking up a Michael Kelly mandolin from MusiciansFriend. Anybody know if the bridge will be installed already?

I ask this becuase I ordered a Kentucky mandolin from them and the bridge was not installed and I had to pay someone to do it.

[JEStanek]

Even if it comes bridge installed from MF (first I've ever heard of them not coming installed!), you should probably have someone adjust the bridge and nut for intonation and action. Your fingers will thank you. Hope you love the new mando.

Jamie

[Bill Snyder]

Why can't you install the bridge yourself if needed?

[beatlenut]

I wouldn't have a clue on where or how to place it correctly.

[mad dawg]

Frets.com (http://www.frets.com/) has a great tutorial on changing strings, which includes direction on how to place the bridge yourself --- it's so easy even I can do it now. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[Biggs2]

I have a MK Legacy Classic and adjusted the bridge placement and height when I reset the intonation. I have ordered a new full contact adjustable bridge and will be doing it again. Take a look at this website www.fretnotguitarrepair.com. They (Fret Not Guitar Repair) have some helpful mandolin advise for do-it-yourself'ers. However, Jamie is right, a professional setup would probably be best.

[pickinNgrinnin]

I'd be surprised if the bridge will be on the Mandolin when it arrives. These folks are right, it's easy to get the bridge on and to set the intonation. Just be patient.

[Keith Erickson]

Beatlenut,

I have a MK A+ and love it. I can not speak about the bridge issue but I do know that MF is pretty upstanding and I have not heard anything negative about them.

Regarding the Bridge, have a little patience with setting up the bridge. It will take some time. If need be, take it to someone who can be trusted to do the work correctly the first time.

Best of luck with your new MK http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif