Mandolawyer
Jul-05-2004, 6:20pm
I have seen some really cheap solid-body 8 string electric mandolins for sale in the $100 range. I am wondering whether that is a feasible alternative to paying $250-300 for a genuine 4 string or 5 string model.
I understand the advantage of using only 4 strings on an electric mandolin--I assume, if you use only 4 strings and they are loose, then it is easier to bend notes without pitch problems (plus, you avoid the problems in general of slightly dissonent double strings feeding through the sound system).
My question is, some of the solid body 8 strings are a lot cheaper than the 4 stringed electrics, e.g., as low as $100.
Is there any problem with just using 4 strings on an 8 string mando? For example, is the neck too narrow for bending notes, or is there something else I'm missing?
The other question I have is whether people recommend 4 or 5 strings for starting out on the electric mandolin. I am used to playing acoustic bluegrass, so this is a whole new area for me. My main concern is the price--I don't know if I will really like playing an electric mando, so if a 5 string is more expensive, that is a consideration...
Thanks,
John Clay
I understand the advantage of using only 4 strings on an electric mandolin--I assume, if you use only 4 strings and they are loose, then it is easier to bend notes without pitch problems (plus, you avoid the problems in general of slightly dissonent double strings feeding through the sound system).
My question is, some of the solid body 8 strings are a lot cheaper than the 4 stringed electrics, e.g., as low as $100.
Is there any problem with just using 4 strings on an 8 string mando? For example, is the neck too narrow for bending notes, or is there something else I'm missing?
The other question I have is whether people recommend 4 or 5 strings for starting out on the electric mandolin. I am used to playing acoustic bluegrass, so this is a whole new area for me. My main concern is the price--I don't know if I will really like playing an electric mando, so if a 5 string is more expensive, that is a consideration...
Thanks,
John Clay