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zdavid
May-05-2004, 11:06am
I am new to the mandolin, but have played guitar most my life.
I wanted to make sure I am tuned correctly. I am using standard tuning GDAE, but it seems like a lot of string tension. Should the E string be an octave higher than standard guitar tuning? I assume there might be lighter gauge strings available, or am I just a wimp from playing guitar for all these years.

thanks for any info

Bob DeVellis
May-06-2004, 2:39pm
Right, the highest pitched mando string is an octave above the highest pitched guitar string. Especially if a mandolin has fairly high action, the high tension and double strings can feel awefully stiff until you get accustomed to it. Making sure the instrument is set up well, with an acceptably low action, can make a huge difference.