View Full Version : Banjo size frets
lefty51
Aug-31-2004, 2:48pm
I will soon be spending $5000 on a new F and I'm not sure what size frets I want. Right now my frets are normal but I've been hearing alot about banjo sized frets and my builder recommended them. I'm curious what the pros and cons are concerning this and who plays banjo sized frets (ex. Thile, Marshall, Zenkle, Compton?). If anyone has an opinion I'd appreciate it.
Ken Sager
Aug-31-2004, 2:55pm
I strongly recommend you play a few mandolins with different sized frets before you decide what you like (or want for that matter), unless your decision making process is based solely on what others want...
Frets, radius, and action are personal preferences. There is no right or wrong, only what feels good to you, and what you like.
Besides, frets can be replaced later if you don't like what you end up with. If you replace frets later you'll probably also need to work on the nut, but that's cheap compared to replacing a mandolin.
Do what feels good.
Best,
Ken
Scotti Adams
Aug-31-2004, 5:29pm
I absolutley love the bigger banjo frets...makes for a quicker neck..that along with a comfortable radius is what I look for.
JGWoods
Aug-31-2004, 6:39pm
I absolutley love the bigger banjo frets...makes for a quicker neck..that along with a comfortable radius is what I look for.
You love the part of your mandolin that came from a banjo?
It's a slippery slope....
best,
gw
ShaneJ
Aug-31-2004, 6:51pm
yes
pdlstl
Aug-31-2004, 6:57pm
I strongly recommend you play a few mandolins with different sized frets before you decide what you like (or want for that matter), unless your decision making process is based solely on what others want...
Frets, radius, and action are personal preferences. There is no right or wrong, only what feels good to you, and what you like.
Besides, frets can be replaced later if you don't like what you end up with. If you replace frets later you'll probably also need to work on the nut, but that's cheap compared to replacing a mandolin.
Do what feels good.
Best,
Ken
Good information!
Fretbear
Sep-01-2004, 2:49am
Absolutely....they could almost start to be called "modern mandolin" sized frets. If you still like the tiny ones I am very happy for you.....