Originally Posted by
Ron G
After playing my Kentucky KM-1500 for over 35 years and drooling over newer mandolins for the last few years I found a 2003 Collings MF5 I couldn't resist. And I'm so pleased! I had a K&K pickup installed as our band plugs in more often these days and for those times when I play it in church. I would appreciate your thoughts on a few questions.
The mandolin came with it's original case. I'm used the rectangular case that came with the Kentucky and that extra storage space. The Collings case holds very little, probably a good thing but... The Collings won't fit in the Kentucky case, the MF5 has a little wider body. Any case suggestions? Anyone use a gig bag? I use Mono gig bags for my PRS electrics and never had issues (I don't travel great distances often). I also like keeping the original cases in good condition.
Any set up suggestions? I did have the action raised slightly when installing the pickup. It seems I need to finesse the MF5 more than the Kentucky. Playing hard doesn't always sound as good, especially on the A & E strings. Perhaps I can raise the action a little more. I'm so impressed with the tuning up and down the neck I don't want to create unnecessary issues.
Along those lines, what's your string suggestions? I went with the D'Addario EJ74's as recommended on the Collings site. Lately I had been using D'Addario XT 11.5-40 on the Kentucky. Maybe a little heavier A & E strings would make a difference.
Thanks for your thoughts and experiences!
Ron
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