New to the Group - And already a question!

[flash]

Hi!

After lurking awhile - and using the 'net wisdom found here to help me decide which mandolin was 'right' for me - I finally bought a mandolin last week.

I'm a long-time guitar player with major GAS - I own over a dozen guitars, all but 2 acoustic - about to succumb to MAS. I've been considering picking up the mando for about 2 years now and finally decided to dive in.

Based on what I've read hear, as well as input from a couple mando players I know, I sprung for a Weber Bridger A in tobacco and gloss finish. I intend to play celtic, folk and maybe some old-time music; I'm not much into 'grass.

And before I ask my question, let me say that I KNOW this is in large part a matter of personal preference, but since I'm new to the instrument I don't HAVE a personal preference!

THe mando I purchased was, I THOUGHT, supposed to have a radiused fingerboard. But when I received the mando (ordered from one of the fine supporters of Mandolin Cafe)it was obvious it didn't have a radiused fretboard. I'd already filled out the registration card so there was no point in calling the dealer and asking if I could return it. Besides, I love the looks and the tone of the mando - which I have named Lester ('cause the neck is Flat http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif ). SO - should I have returned the mandolin and kept looking, or learn to play it and someday get another /w the radius - if I decide I really NEED that feature.

Thanks!
-rich-

[glauber]

Like you said, personal preference. My humble opinion is that, if you like this instrument, keep it. It's probably not the last mandolin you're going to buy.
http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

Both my mandolins have flat boards.

[glauber]

(I'm assuming, of course, that you didn't pay extra for the feature you thought was there but isn't.)

[otterly2k]

Rich-- On the one hand...since you don't have a preference, and you seem to be otherwise happy with the instrument, you might just keep this one and learn to play it... it may be that the flatness of the fingerboard will be no issue at all.

On the other hand...if the instrument was advertised as having a radius and has none, and you think you might want one (for whatever reason, it doesn't matter), I wouldn't hesitate to contact the seller to see what can be worked out. It is possible that they sent you the wrong mando, and no doubt (as one of the fine Cafe sponsors) they will not hesitate to make it right. (don't let the registration card thing keep you from making the call...)

On the OTHER hand (like with Tevya, there are always more than 2!), if the misunderstanding was on your part... YOU thought it had a radius, but the seller never made that claim, then you are probably best advised to learn from the experience, and keep the mando you have.

let us know how it goes.
KE

[Randy]

It is a bit of a shock playing a flat 'board after playing radiused guitar 'boards for years, but it won't take long to get thoroughly accustomed to it. I went the same route and did get another mando eventually with a radiused 'board. But it is a matter of personal taste, and like the man said, it will not be your last mando. The Weber is a decent little instrument, though.

[Moose]

My .02 : I would agree with the above "general" opinion(s) - OK, so it was not "as advertised"!## - however, I would suggest: ... yes, you HAVE bought a decent/well-recommended instrument- and brand thereof. I too am a guitar player ; I have both flat AND "radised" fretboard(s) - IMHO this is a small "difference" - you CAN do it! - Welcome aboard.., enjoy your new mando and your music - and yes(!?##) you'll probably succomb to M-A-S (as in G-A-S). Happy pick'n - Moose. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif

[Michael H Geimer]

Also a long time guitarist, who has made the switch. While I do own a Weber with radius, most of the time I'm playing one my Mid-mo's which are flat. Plenty of flat fingerboard mandolins in the world ... possibly most?

So, I say ... it's no big deal. Enjoy that Bridger!

- Benig

[ira]

the bridger 'a' is amazing- enjoy it and don't sweat the radius. one of my fav mandos when i've tried it. wish i had the cash- so, i'll live vicariously through your purchase.:laugh: if you like it- its good!

[flash]

UPDATE:

Man, do those guys at Sound TO Earth (Weber) ROCK! #I received an unsolicited email from one of the S2E employees about my 'missing radius' due to the posting on this board. #He wanted to know if Weber had screwed up the custom order or if the dealer had misrepresented the instrument.

Neither I nor the dealer can say for sure who screwed up, but we both agree it certainly wasn't Weber. #Regardless, Weber has graciously offered to radius the fretboard at a reduced cost, which the dealer and I will split.

Talk about customer service! # And kudos to a dealer who stands behind the sale - Dennis at The Mandolin Store.

-rich cook-

Guess I'll have to rename Lester when he gets back...

[SternART]

The power of the Cafe, and citizens of Mandolin World in action!!!

Just use a middle name....... Lester (used to be) Flat.

[JEStanek]

Sweet. I love the Bridger A style mandolin. You got a sweet one and the folks at Sound to Earth are great. I hope you enjoy your mando after it's operation!

Welcome to the cafe and happy pickin!
Jamie