Re: Help ID approx date on L&H bowlback?
Originally Posted by
Friend of the Devil
Thanks again for the info. Is there a way to tell if the strings are ultralight (string diameter?)? They look fairly new and I’d rather leave them if possible. Of course, taking care of the instrument is the number one priority, so I’ll change them if needed.
As for more info: here is a picture of the tail cover. I saw one listed on reverb with the exact same cover and a comment that it may not be original. I don’t know if it is or isn’t. The mandolins themselves also look identical which would seem like a big coincidence that they both got the same replacement cover. Maybe not.
Thanks again.
Don't even risk it if you don't know about the strings. You can get a extra light set from Just Strings or Big City strings for ~$5. Lady S is right. Too many bowls have been ruined by "new strings" put on without understanding.
My hunch is that it is a replacement cover on the tailpiece, too. L+H typically used a their own style cover on their work, particularly on the Washburns and American Convservatory. They get loose and can get lost.
The bean shaped ones were also very commonly used by others so the coincidence of two mandolins both having them shouldn't be considered odd. It's a replacement bridge, too, so someone might have added parts + strings to make it "whole" again.
They made a lot of mandolins for a lot of different labels so anything is possible. I wouldn't sweat the "authenticity / originality" issue too much. There are still hundreds if not thousands of these still in circulation and still very playable.
We're serious about the strings, though..... don't even think about risking it.
Mick
Ever tried, ever failed? No matter. Try again, fail again. Fail better.--Samuel Beckett
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