Onboard Preamp
Thought I'd post this here in the builder's forum rather than general discussions. Simply because it has to do with modding an existing mandolin. Which brings me right to the first question: Have any of you installed a preamp in your mandolins or someone else's, ala the type used in guitars? I know guitar pre-amps are way too large for a mandolin. But what about smaller ones, not necessarily designed for guitars?
I'm versed in pre-amps on the floor, just don't like them. And I feel one could have better control over the sound of an amplified mandolin with controls you could get to more easily - such as those side mounted.
I found a small ukulele pre-amp that seems like it might fit. I have a new Eastman octave and I'd like to put that pre-amp in the mandolin. But ... I'm not sure what I would be cutting into as I've not seen the inside of a mandolin. The cutout would be 1.3" * 1.4" * 1.2 (deep)". The overall dimensions are 2" * 1.6". The overall depth of the side on the octave is shown as 1.875". Seems ... tight.
I asked one shop about installation - they quoted $300. Just to mount the pre-amp. I know that's cutting and fitting. But ... $300? Or is that reasonable?
Hope that isn't too rambling of a post.
Kenny
Quote: "You know, all things considered, we are very, very lucky to have all that we do, an embarrassment of riches, actually."
Heritage H40
Eastman MD615
Eastman MD0305 OM
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