Styles and sizes,,,

[reb0964]

I would think over time theres been so many ways to build mandolins and so much time spent to find the perfect size and style to give the greatest instrument, was wondering if anyone has tried taller sides to make sound more beefier or is it just the tops and backs that carry the tone difference??? maybe stupid questions,,,but it is 1;00 am...just like to hear anyone else that has tried off the beatin path just to say"" i tried it""

[Geoff B]

I can't say I've tried it, but I've heard that making the sides too deep will soften up the sound. You lose punch, or projection or something. My question on that concerns whether it is an issue with the volume of the chamber (in which case you make the top and back smaller--which seems silly) or if the actual *depth* between the top and back make the difference. I'd be interested to hear more educated opinions or experiences.

[grandmainger]

I asked that very question a little while back. Plenty of great answers: Depth Thread (http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=7;t=31675)
Germain

[Crowduck]

If you want to experiment why not try shimming the sides and neck/tail blocks taller, then temporary glue the back on with a paper gasket and hide glue. Easily reversable.