Tech: Octave mandolin pickup

Subject: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 24 Apr 02 - 10:33 PM

I just acquired a Trinity College (SAGA) flattop octave mandolin and want to put in a pickup. I'm thinking about the Fishman M-100 transducer bridge, which has a great reputation. Now, I know that bridge is made for archtop mandos. My question is: is it tall enough so I could shave the bottom flat and still have enough string clearance/action?

I'd also appreciate any other suggestions as to pickups. I have a Fishman Blender dual preamp for my guitar, and want to use it with the O.M.

Thanks,
Michael

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: Gypsy
Date: 24 Apr 02 - 10:36 PM

Calling 'Spaw, where art thou?

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: DonMeixner
Date: 24 Apr 02 - 11:08 PM

I suggest you contact Bluejay at Pick up The World. The one in my banjo which I think is also recommended for the Bouzouki and Octave Mandolin has been the best ever for me. And with a decent preamp it sounds finestkind.

Don

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 24 Apr 02 - 11:27 PM

Don - do you know the model number of yours?

Michael

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: DonMeixner
Date: 25 Apr 02 - 12:07 AM

Mine is a #20 but I just checked the PUTW web site and they do recommend a #27 for bouzoukis.

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 25 Apr 02 - 12:14 AM

Thanks Don, I'll check them out.

Michael

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: Sooz
Date: 25 Apr 02 - 01:48 PM

Get an Ashworth 'mini-bug' transducer from Nigel Thornbury at Highly Strung - about £25 ..and stick it inside as close to the base of the saddle as possible - the sound quality is really excellent. A cheap and easy fix giving wonderful sound

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: GUEST,jonesey
Date: 25 Apr 02 - 01:53 PM

you might try the Mandolin Cafe Webite which has got a real good Q & A tech section.

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 25 Apr 02 - 04:47 PM

Sooz - I'm in USA. Do you have a link/address for Highly Strung?

Thanks,
Michael

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: GUEST,Strolling Johnny
Date: 26 Apr 02 - 09:19 AM

Michaelr,

It's www.highlystrung.net

Cheers, SJ

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 26 Apr 02 - 07:33 PM

Thanks all, I just ordered the Ashworth Bug. Seems like a good deal; I'll consider the pricier options if I don't like the sound.

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: Big Mick
Date: 26 Apr 02 - 11:16 PM

I hope that works out for you, Michael. If it doesn't, I have heard nothing but raves about the "Pickup the World" equipment. They have excellent tech support as well.

Mick

Subject: RE: Tech: Octave mandolin pickup
From: michaelr
Date: 06 May 02 - 08:42 PM

Got the Ashworth Mini-Bug today. It sounds great!

I haven't seen any American product that can compete - excellent sound for under 30 bucks. Yay!

Thank you Sooz for the tip, and Strolling Johnny for the link>

Cheers,
Michael