First mando strung up, plug your ears!

[Zoomy]

I strung up my F5 for the first time in the white. Low and behold it makes noise. All I have done so far is slot the nut and the saddle and sand the bridge feet. I couldn't resist putting strings on. It is not close to being set up properly. The action is a mile high right now. What steps do you experts take to get your new masterpieces set up?

[Geoff B]

Assuming the frets are leveled, crowned and dressed, I usually begin with the nut. Then I move to the bridge. I check relief once the string tension is all up, then adjust the rod if necessary for relief. I'll go back several times in the first few days to see if the neck moves (one of my OCD habits) and then re-check the bridge with any truss rod adjustment. Last is to get the intonation right, and adjusting the bridge if necessary (forward-back, or up-down). Good luck and post some pics/sound clips when you've got 'em!

[walt33]

Here's a good thread on an IV kit:

http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/sh...ad.php?t=55660

Follow the link to Avi's blog. Very good stuff.