Re: Mandocello: Where to start?
Originally Posted by
Mandobart
My easy to remember rule of thumb for octave pairs, is you can double the frequency (octave higher) and halve the string diameter and there is no net change in string tension. So that's how I string 'em up.
Since the Eastman takes ball end (guitar) strings, I use giotar strings: C1 .066, C2 .032, G1 .046, G2 .020, D1 .032, D2.014, both A's .020.
I've strung it opposite of a 12 string guitar, where the octave higher strings are on the left or bass side, or top if you're playing right handed. Here's a repost of my 'cello with octave pairs:
That mandocello sounds good!
Here is the sound of a mandocello strung octave the other way with the lower string first (i.e. strung Cc Gg Dd AA) the gauges are: 0.074"; 0.038" / 0.048"; 0.025"/ 0.034"; 0.018";/ 0.022"; 0.022".
I was just experimenting in this video with trying to add a lower register to the flute & harp tune. I hope you can here the mandocello clearly enough among the other instruments. I'd do another recording of the mandocello by itself but I've already converted it back to unison stringing. Placing the smaller (higher pitched) string on the inside or treble side give the mandocello a decided 12-string guitar sound. I liked it at first but got tired of it after awhile.
Also I think an octave strung mandocello is actually more tricky to play because the fretting and picking need to adjust the the fact that up strokes and down strokes feel and sound different.
I use the same approximately half the string diameter for the octave higher pitch to keep tensions constant.
Bernie
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