Printable View
Couldn’t resist. This video shows up in another thread, but I think it warrants its own….
Check out the impact of J75s on the Hamlett two-point. Please pardon my playing. I’m still getting my hands back in shape. The notes are pretty clean, but not much speed going on right now.
https://youtu.be/hpaXoWBVG2w
Yes indeed, while it sounded really good before, it's stellar on my speakers. And i do mean r e a l l y good! Thanks for sharing this excellent mandolin with us.
You’ve got you a keeper! My first mandolin was a Kentucky eBay mess that was built just after they moved production to China and before they had their builders as dialed in as they do now. The first time I put J75s on that thing, man, I couldn’t believe the difference in volume and tone. It was really an eye opener for me. My upgrade was a Silverangel econo that also thrives on J75s. My current baby is a Kelley A5 that I haven’t felt compelled to put 75s on yet, but I am planning on trying some monels on it later today.
Of course, I don’t at all mean to compare you Hammett to my Kentucky, cuz there is NO comparison, just agreeing that heavier strings can really make a difference for some mandolins. Glad to have you back and healthy, Kevin!
Thanks dan in va and CES,
The J75s have settled in wonderfully. Im happy to say the feeling of tension has eased a bit compared to when I first put them on, and it seems like my fingers/hands have acclimated or gained a little strength. I’ll be using them for the foreseeable future. It’s likely I’ll go back to J74s at some point as well, and when that happens it will be cool to notice the difference (if any) from when they were in before.
Pretty awesome experimenting with strings and picks on a new mandolin. :-)
I like the idea, Kevin, of using the slightly heavier strings. I think if it is a contemporary build, likely the structure of a well-built mandolin can handle the tension and many would benefit from the beefier tone. I would guess there would be a slight bridge lowering possibility. I appreciate the reminder about the J75's. Your Hamlett is eye-catching and sounds great! Dan