Man, it rarely fails...whenever I use a long series (a solo) of double stops during a performance, the audience almost always spontaneosly applauds. #It's a good way to make folks think you know what you're doing. #In all seriousness, there is a lot to be said for double stops--with or without the open strings--very pleasing to the ear (yours and the listener's). #Develop those double-stops and two-finger chords; as you become more accomplished, the old double-stops and two-finger chords will only add to the richness of your playing. #It's "cumulative", man...just like all of your mandolin time. #Enjoy...