Mandola - Roundhole vs F holes

[Klaus Wutscher]

Hi all

The other day I was contemplating a mandola purchase (always contemplating some kind of purchase)and I was wondering whether to go for f holes or round soundhole. My question is: I noticed that most builders prefere a round soundhole for the ´dola. What is the difference soundwise? Since the chop is not much of an issue on the mandola, this could be one reason, but on the other hand, f hole instruments generally seem to projet better. What can I expect soundwise from different design?

Thanks klaus

[Ed Ashley]

I vote oval hole, for sustain, bass, nice deep tone.

[ethanopia]

I've wondered the same, having only played oval hole dolas, I can only imagine what an F sounds like, aside from hearing the Dawg play his on recordings and at shows.

But I will wager a guess that if you like f holes in mandolins then you will probably like them in doals too...but like I said thats just a guess...

[Michael Wolf]

I know the f-hole Mandola sound from Simon Major on the "Mandoliquents"-CD. There ars serveral Dola-parts and one solo piece. He's playing a Vanden Mandola. I would say, you get a relative warm tone from a f-hole-instrument in the mandolaworld, compared to f-hole mandolins.
Though, Simon Major seams to get a warm tone from any instrument.

Cheers
Michael

[Daniel Nestlerode]

I like to think of the difference between a central hole and two F holes is one of blend and cut. Mandolas with central holes will blend better than mandolas with F holes. The F holes allow the tone to get more focused in the instrument's mid-range, the central holes will allow the instrument to breathe a bit more, flattening the EQ curve a bit. You want a warm toned 'dola? Get a central sound hole. You want your 'dola to cut through the mix more? get one with F holes.

FWIW, Mike Marshall has said that central sound holes are better because the role of the 'dola in most music is to blend with the group, not cut through.

Best,
Daniel