Hey Chris,

Not to make you jealous or anything (hahahaha); but, here's some pictures of my sweet Mandolanne - from tree trunk to finished instrument. Just click on the thumbnail pics to see a larger picture, or, click on 'Slideshow' in the upper left hand corner - that's kinda cool, too.

As far as the setup is concerned, I'll let the more experienced folks give you the intimate details. But, what I would want is (if necessary) adjustments to the bridge, filing of frets, lowering/raising the nut, that kind of thing.

As long as the action is decent, and the neck is straight, and you like the way it plays, sounds, and just plain feels in your hands, I'd say go for it.

All the best, Áine