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Thread: 8 string builders

  1. #1
    Registered User Perry's Avatar
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    Default 8 string builders

    I did search the forums but things change...who currently makes quality 8 string electric mandolins?

    Wish I never sold my '50's EM-200...dang!!

  2. #2
    Registered User Tom Wright's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    I'm sure you'd be happy with a semi-hollow 8-string from Steve Ryder, and he's in your part of the country.

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    If you want a natural acoustic with pickup you could mount the Shadow pickguard with magnetic pickup on your regular axe. They have them for A- and F-styles.

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  3. #3
    Quietly Making Noise Dave Greenspoon's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    If acoustic-electric is an option the answer is Rigel. If cash isn't a big concern there is a beautiful EM200 on eBay.
    Axes: Eastman MD-515 & El Rey; Eastwood S Mandola
    Amps: Fishman Loudbox 100; Rivera Clubster Royale Recording Head & R212 cab; Laney Cub 10

  4. #4
    Registered User zoukboy's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    Almuse!

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  6. #5

    Default Re: 8 string builders

    I'd recommend Almuse and John Smith.

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  8. #6

    Default Re: 8 string builders

    Pete Mallinson at Almuse does fine work. His gallery of custom 4- 5- and 8-string electrics is mouth-watering, and the way he bucks trends and fashions and explores looks and styles is refreshing. He's also a very nice guy to deal with.

    ron

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  10. #7
    coprolite mandroid's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    My Fender FM 61 se is OK they dont seem to turn over as Much as the 5 string 60. in the classifieds.

    All the electrics, being attached to the scratch plate makes Pickup Upgrades easy to do
    (and Reverse, to sell as they were shipped )




    Many people are happy with Godin A8's too.
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  11. #8

    Default Re: 8 string builders

    Another option is to start with an extremely cheap mandocaster from Thomann in Germany. My Harley Benton started out as one of these. At about 75 pounds sterling, it's a very economical starting point, and the basic construction is of decent quality.

    I upgraded a LOT of things. New bridge from Moongazer, and new pick-ups, wiring and scratchplate from Pete at Almuse. I also replaced the tuners with new Jin Ho ones from Hobgoblin in the UK.

    By picking and choosing the changes you make, you can set your own budget. Most people were a pleasure to deal with. One guy in particular was anything but, though his product was still worth the effort. I'm delighted with the end result
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  12. #9
    coprolite mandroid's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    I suppose Germany is a OK source for someone in SEA.

    Odd for things that are exported from such a close Proximity to where you are.

    But that is I suppose what happens when the business model

    is Built around selling to the Western Importers. ..
    writing about music
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    about architecture

  13. #10
    Registered User Mandobart's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    I've sure enjoyed my Mandobird VIII. Like Ron's Mandocaster, it took a new bridge from Tom at Moongazer, a new pickup from Pete, a new bone nut and jazzmando strings to really bring it to life. Used to be able to find these for about $200.

  14. #11

    Default Re: 8 string builders

    Great looking axe Ron. I'm looking for the right 8 string electric and yours would be sorely tempting...

    Len B.
    Clearwater, FL

  15. #12
    gary nava; luthier GarY Nava's Avatar
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    Default Re: 8 string builders

    Here's an old thread about the 8 string e-mando that I make.
    http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/sh...71#post1154071
    Cheers Gary

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