Mandocello String Question

[pacebailey]

I recently was received a mandocello from a European maker. The C course is surprisingly daunting, and I'm no stranger to large, straining instruments. I'm wondering if maybe I should look into getting a lighter set of strings. What is the consensus on a decent gauge of strings for a 24" mandocello?

[Mandobart]

Try emando.com (http://www.emando.com/shop/strings_cello.htm), a great source (and cafe member, NFI).

On my Eastman mandocello, I use octave pairs as follows:
C1 .066, C2 .032, G1 .046, G2 .020, D1 .032, D2.014, both A's .020.

Depending on what my local shops has in stock, I may vary the sizes a little. I find the stock strings, particular the C to be too light for a good sound. J78's (http://elderly.com/accessories/items/J78.htm) use .074 - .048 - .034 - .022 which are heavier yet.

[Charlieshafer]

I just got used to it. It does take a while to get on and off quickly without a buzz, but the time spent is worth it, IMHO. Most 'cellos are built to sound best with a normal gauge. That said, post the maker and scale length, as some euro cello's can take a lighter string and still sound great.

[Jim Garber]

I would say that if it is a flattop mandocello or a bowlback one you would want to get lighter strings. Also on any vintage instruments tho old Gibsons are pretty sturdy.