sound - strings vs the mando

[Don Christy]

I've been thinking about upgrading my mando in a few months. The concensus seems to be to play as many instruments as you can before you decide on one.

Something I've been wondering about is the effect of strings on these test drives. My current mando sounds so different with the strings I'm using now (thomstik) vs the original equipment strings.

How do you account for this when test driving many instruments?
Don

[Steven Stone]

Short answer - You can't http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

Long answer - I would suggest trying the mandos that you're serious about with more than one set of strings. Also changing strings gives you a chance to examine the mandolin up close and personal. Pay special attention to the string height at the nut and the bridge adjustment. Is it ideal, or could you like it lower/higher/brighter/darker/more bass/more treble/etc? Also pay attention to the bridge foot's fit.

Of course some mandos sound better with old strings, just as some sound better with heavier or lighter strings. But trying more than one set of strings should give you some insight into what would be the ideal strings and the ideal set-up for each instrument. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/mandosmiley.gif