Octave String Pairings

[junglejem]

I have a Weber 20" scale octave mandolin, and would like to try octave pairings on the "G" and "D" strings (like a 12 string guitar). What gauges would I use, and where can I purchase individual octave mandolin (loop end) strings?

[amowry]

Juststrings.com is a great source for single strings. You can most likely use the same gauges as the strings that you currently use for your A and E strings, respectively, or possibly one gauge higher.

[mandroid]

Irish Zouk sets are like that ...

generally an octave g is like a 3rd A string and the octave d like a 3rd E string
just a scale note off.

[Mandobart]

The easiest way to do this is take a spare A string and pair it with a G. Tune it to a G one octave above the regular G. Do the same thing with an extra E string paired with a regular D, but tuned one octave higher.

[Dylan Hatch]

I just followed this advice and it is working out really well so far - thank you folks!

[Dylan Hatch]

I am going to experiment with possible doing an octave pairing on my A course as well. I don't suppose any of you have tried that and have advice?

[allenhopkins]

I am going to experiment with possible doing an octave pairing on my A course as well. I don't suppose any of you have tried that and have advice?

An octave higher than the standard A, or an octave lower?

[Dylan Hatch]

Higher - looking at trying a .009 string for that - the “regular” A string is a .022.

[Dylan Hatch]

I'm relatively new (~1 year) to octave mando, playing a Pono MND-20C. The standard string set that came on it, which I stayed with so far, is .012, .022, .032, .046.

- Now, using the advice in this thread, I have: .012/.012, .022/.022, .032/.012, .046/.022

- Next experiment, "going octave" on the A course: .012/.012, .022/.009, .032/.012, .046/.022

Actually, I should maybe have those flipped when I type it out - I currently have the thicker/lower string on octave pairs closer to me (upper), and the thinner/higher string farther from me (lower). I heard Sarah Jarosz strings her octave that way, and it's been my first go.

How about you? Lower string on an octave course closer to you and the top of the instrument, or other way round?

[Bernd Bannach]

I have a cittern, tuned GDAEa: 42/22, 28/12, 20/009 and 009 for the high a pair. 20/009 or 22/009 works fine, scale is 23 inch.

[Dylan Hatch]

Perfect, mine is a 23 inch scale as well. Thanks Bernd!

[Bernd Bannach]

You can hear it here: