Lighter strings for beginners?

[s11141827]

Here's a Zero Glide nut:

[s11141827]

Well Lighter strings could allow for lower action but string buzz can also be caused by if the bridge collapsed. Electric Mandolins have Magnetic Pickups which allow for lighter strings & lower action because the magnets limit their movement.

[pops1]

If the magnets limit the strings movement they are pulling the string out of tune. Magnetic pickups allow for lighter strings because you don't have to drive the top or play hard for volume, you simply turn the volume up.

[Snakum]

As a relatively new player myself, in just three months my preferences for string weight and height have changed already. Despite prefering low action and light strings on my guitars forever, I'm having a new nut cut for my newest mando to actually raise the action, and I'm surprised surprised that I prefer. 11s over .10s in string guage.

No substitute for trial and error to find your own sweet spot.

[Twistofer56]

FWIW -- I'm just starting out, but upgraded my Mandolin from a Troublesome Creek Honeybee to a Northfield A5 Special. (Yeah, I took a leap of faith). I just did a cleaning and string change to Ernie Ball Earthwood Mediums. I found that they have a great sound and a bit easier to play than the D'Addario's J74 which came with the mandolin. I like a bit more mellow sound. I also found that the thinner pick can "brighten" the sound somewhat IMHO.

[s11141827]

I've since switched to Thomastik Precision Strings which have roughly half as much tension because they're designed in such a way