Convert Eleuke to Electric Mandolin

**mike mandolin** · Aug-14-2011, 3:37am

I have a Eleuke I was wondering If I could convert it to an Electric Mandolin by putting steel strings on, and re tuning. Will it stand the strain

**rico mando** · Aug-14-2011, 1:03pm

maybe . post a pic or give a better description of the instrument and you may get a better answer . you may need to do more customizing than just changing stings . you may need to file some nut slots change how the strings are attached etc..

**mike mandolin** · Aug-14-2011, 1:49pm

http://api.ning.com/files/Qw4W8US392...104&height=139

**mike mandolin** · Aug-14-2011, 1:54pm

This link shows photo, its the one on the right, the others a Crafter Mandolin

**delsbrother** · Aug-14-2011, 2:05pm

Can't get the link to work.. Is it one of these:

http://www.eleuke.com/product/n_01.html

If so, I would be worried about the bridge (where the strings attach to the body). Assuming it can take the stress of steel strings (which it might not), the intonation will probably be horrible with the straight bridge. IMO you'd be better off replacing the bridge and the nut with ones made for steel strings.

Better yet, get some uke strings that are designed to be tuned in fifths (see the other thread about those). Much easier way to get mandolin tuning/sound on a uke.

ps LOVE the pineapple one!

**rico mando** · Aug-14-2011, 11:39pm

the picture is to small to see any detail . but if it is hollow underneath the bridge then it probably will eventually fail and crack the top . best to use some nylon guitar strings or uke strings designed for fifths tuning . the peizo pick up will probably sound better using classical guitar /or uke alternative strings .

**Bertram Henze** · Aug-15-2011, 2:46am

I have used nylon guitar strings for tuning a tenor Eleuke in fifths like an OM to make it a quiet practice instrument (see here). Steel strings will definitely bend the neck too much.

**mike mandolin** · Aug-15-2011, 1:44pm

Mine is a solid one wih a couple of F s cut out, its a concert I think but not like a pineapple !
Thanks to all of you for your input, looks like would be better with nylon strings and tuned as a Mandolin