What a great opportunity. Thanks for checking in with us. I received my Mando-Lace a couple of days ago after ordering it online through the Lace Music site. I also had some assistance form Jared of Lace Music via email. Helpful gent! Thanks.
First, don't believe the video. The video makes it look as though the pickup installs easily with one smooth insertion between the bridge and saddle. At least that's what I took away from watching it a couple times. Since my pickup came without instructions I wasn't concerned for I watched how to do it. I quickly discovered this wasn't the case. The rest was trial and error. However, after reading the helpful installation instructions above I do believe that I have it right, well, almost. Here's why:
In instruction #2 copied above you said that once the pickup was inserted through the bridge that you should "...then move it towards the E strings...". However, on the bottom of the pickup is an arrow and an instruction that says something like AFTER INSERTION SLIDE THIS WAY. The arrow is pointing towards the G strings. It is pointing away from the side that is attached to the cord. It doesn't seem to make any difference in the functions of the p/u for it can be moved in either direction.
Question: What is the recommended direction to do the slide? Is this slide related to the pickup's function or it is a locking mechanism making it more secure?
I'm attaching a couple pics of my setup and my bud, Benny. Note that when viewed from the side the feet of the pickup do not come in contact with the mandolin. If I install it with the feet resting on the mandolin then the pickup hits the underside of the strings. To prevent this I've temporarily shimmed it up by placing a piece of folded cardboard under the feet. Something isn't right and it's most likely my installation.
Question: After looking at the photos and reading my comments what needs to be done to achieve the correct positioning of the pickup on my instrument?
The pickup works! On my installation it's a little weaker on the E strings than on the others. But, it"s not nearly as bad as the weak E that I've experienced with other types of pickups such as those on the Mandobird and the Mando-Strat. I haven't gigged with it yet. I've just been playing around with it in the living room with my trusty LOUDBOXmini. First impressions are very positive for its intended use. I think that I'm going to be happy using this. My installation though is questionable. Anyone else try it?
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