Hi,
I am new on this forum and looking for some guidance. I have a budget mandolin that I am learning to play on. It is a flat top with a slightly bowled back in what I think might be the Portugese style. The label says Cremona Luby Checkoslovakia.
The action is very high, approx 3mm (1/8 th of an inch) at the 12th fret, and I have had to angle the bridge about 30 degrees to get the intonation roughly correct. The neck is bowed, with much more relief than is needed.
My attempts at improving things are hampered by two things. 1 There is no trussrod so no easy way to straighten up the neck. 2 The bridge is solid wood, so no adjustment possible without cutting and sanding.
Any advice on how to proceed? I dont want to spend a lot of money and I will probably get a better instrument at some point.
Despite the aching fingers, I am enjoying playing it. I have played guitar and violin for a number of years and that helps a bit.
I am certainly not a luthier but am willing to have a go at setting it up myself - I have quite a few tools and experience in working with wood.
All the best, Stephen Elster, Ireland
Bookmarks