#1
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What's my next step?
I have a Trinity College Octave Mandolin that I quite like and use at jams sessions and live shows. When I first bought it used (mint), I had it set up by a very respected music store, which was about three years ago. The setup was done well, but I have always struggled with fret buzz on the A string when I dig in. The strings on the OM are of a higher gauge than most TC mandolins ship with, but the tech doing the work did the set up with these strings. I would say the action is on the higher side, but since I like to dig in, I requested that.
I am just wondering what my next steps should be to remedy the A string fret buzz? Would this potentially be a nut issue or should I be asking for a fret leveling? To add to that, my Larrivee OM-03 has a very similar issue as well. The low E string buzzes but the rest of the strings are fine. I even have the action fairly high right now and it still does it. I am wondering if whatever I ask for with the OM, I should also get done to the Larrivee. |
#2
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If it's only one string it might be the nut.
Does it still buzz when fretted. |
#3
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I also play an octave mandolin (22" scale). I think you need to go up a few thousandths heavier for the A. There was a thread on this very topic recently on the Mandolin Cafe. Some suggested mandola strings. Not sure what gauge you're using now. Here's D'Addario's offerings:
J80 OM strings 0.022" A string J76 Mandola strings 0.025" A string (wound) J72 Bluegrass Mandola strings 0.023" A string (wound) Another thing I've done on my mandolins for similar issues is to file down the E string part of the saddle by about 1/32" or so and then raise the whole treble side of the saddle by that amount, effectively keeping the E string at the same height but raising the A. Hope this helps. |
#4
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It typically only buzzes when fretted, but now that you mention it, it might do it open as well. I will check that today.
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#5
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Quote:
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#6
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I've preferred D'Addario Mandola EJ72 (.014, .023, .034, .049) on my Trinity College Octave Mandolin for years. No issues.
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