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Private member Discussion3D Printing

3D scanner

Anyone use a 3D scanner to make models for printing, or CNC? I've noticed a number of inexpensive scanners on the market that appear to be an able to scan with fine detail and accuracy. I've wondered if they could be used to scan a guitar neck, or arch top mandolin plate to then cut on a CNC after tweaking in a CAD program.

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Private member
That's kind of what I thought. The scan comes out dirty and needs more manipulation in software which can be more work than drawing it in the first place. I was curious as there are now numerous ads…
Private member DiscussionGeneral

Need help with 1915 Gibson Mandolin

I’ve got this early Gibson A mandolin that has been separated for a long time. Even without string tension I can’t line the back up for repair. Any ideas? TIA

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that does sound like a sticky wicket. :)
Private member DiscussionAmps, Pickups, and Pedals

Classical pickup

Similar question to the one I had about the mandolin. I have a request for a non-intrusive pickup for a classical guitar. Anyone have a recommendation?

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Private member
Hi Tom, I have been involved with designing and making pickups systems for 12 years. Our products go under the name Go Acoustic Audio. As for non intrusive, we have a simpler installation. This is a quic…
Private member DiscussionAmps, Pickups, and Pedals

Pickup suggestions for a Mandolin

Beyond simple reviews and specs… does anyone have a good suggestion for a pickup install on the mandolin pictured here.

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Private member
I’m a fan of any of the K&K options there’s usually a solution there. They’re in Washington state they’ve been responsive to emails for technical questions also.
Private member DiscussionFolk, Bluegrass, Irish, Old Time Instruments

Bowl Back Separation

Does anyone have any experience fixing a seam separation on a bowl back mandolin? The wood is in good shape, it's just separated some time in it's 100 year lifetime. Body is otherwise completely stable, there are linings on both the inside and outside edges of the rim. Circa 1920 Rex Professional mandolin, a Gretsch brand.

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Ian Davlin
If it's solid (probably reinforced on the inside) I'd be tempted to let it ride. You could fill it for the purposes of aesthetics. I would use some water based wood filler that dries hard and salt to…
Private member DiscussionFolk, Bluegrass, Irish, Old Time Instruments

Blue Comet Mandolin in for a setup...

I have a ©1930s Blue Comet mando on the bench for a setup. The plan is to return to the original floating bridge, but I'm concerned it may be worn out! These aren't valuable instruments in today's market, but this one has been in my client's family for four generations. The neck is at an odd angle, so it may need resetting. If anyone has any special knowledge about these instruments, don't be shy!

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Private member DiscussionFolk, Bluegrass, Irish, Old Time Instruments

Mandolin Neck Attached at Odd Angle

This rather old mandolin (20's or 30's?) requires a neck reset to make it playable. The neck is attached at an angle to the body. Does anyone know, or have an educated guess, as to how the neck is attached to the body?

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Completed mandolin with wedge under fingerboard to achieve optimal action. New nut, new bridge, and tuner grommets installed.
Private member DiscussionGeneral

Need vintage Waverly ferrules? Try your leather store.

I was in need of a set of ferrules for vintage Waverly 4-on-a-plate mandolin tuners with 0.21" diameter posts, but no one wanted to part with a vintage set. Tom Wittrock, of Third Eye Guitars here in Springfield, MO (late 50's Les Paul guru), suggested I check the local leather store and damn if he wasn't right on! For less than $10 I got a bag of 50 ferrules that fit perfectly, seriously, these were a perfect fit. They come in chrome,…

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That there's a quality tip. 👍
Private member DiscussionNeck Reset Database

Gibson A-1 Mandolin, mid-late 1930s

Drill at the 12th fret. There's not much here to work with....

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...and this was the first time I needed a metal grinder to perform a neck reset...