fingerboard extensions

[onlyagibsonisgoodenuff]

Maybe some of the builders can weigh in here. Why do builders put fingerboard extensions on the mandolin only to require fret removal and scooping. Or some of the fingerboard extensions I've seen that already come scooped, wouldn't have been in the way to start with. To me, I would think an extension similar to Collings' would be the perfect design; no need to scoop, yet still retains the extension "look".

[Luthier Vandross]

Asthetics.


M

[MikeB]

Asthetics.

I like that answer. #There ain't no other reasonable answer. #And, "There's no accounting for taste (read: asthetics)."

So, I guess there's no accounting for scooped fingerboard extensions. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif

[Luthier Vandross]

We make them both ways, and sometimes ask the customer which they'd prefer.

(scalloped, or fretted, that is)

I know of a few players that use those frets... http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif


M

[Bruce Evans]

I think the fingerboard extension can be compared to the fins on automobiles in the 50s, that carried over into the 60s. They never actually did anything, but people got so used to seeing them, a car looked strange without them. They just finally disappeared. Maybe the fingerboard extension will eventually disappear - along with that incredibly chincy looking tailpiece cover that's always buzzing or falling off.

[gdae85]

I still prefer scooped ext. over no extensions at all

[Luthier Vandross]

Dump the old style tailpiece for a nice solid one.

We don't make enough to sell, but you just can't beat a nice brass tailpiece.

-threadjack over-

M

[Trip]

I know its bad technique, but I kinda hook a finger or two under the edge of the extension during some intense pickin....whenever I get hold of a mando without a extension, it just seems wrong....or one that has a pickguard attached makes my style almost impossible to play

[Luthier Vandross]

What gauge pick do you use Trip? Do you use real light ones, choked up tight, like I used to?

http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

I used to do that, and my hand kind of shimmered tightly, around my wrist for fast trills.. I muted from underneath. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif


M