Will have to admit, there is one mandolin where the Tone-Gard does not seem to help. That's my Kalamazoo. Have repeatedly experimented with it and while there may be a very slight addition to the low mids with it on, it's not consistent. If I do use it on this instrument, it's to prevent my sweat from damaging the back. (FWIW, I do believe the mahogany back on the KM-21 is laminated.) Otherwise as stated previously I use one (as well as armrests) on my other mandolins and feel they improve the sound.
Brentrup Model 23, Boeh A5 #37, Gibson A Jr., Big Muddy M-11, Coombe Classical flattop, Strad-O-Lin
https://www.facebook.com/LauluAika/
https://www.lauluaika.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Longtine-Am...14404553312723
I am only a recent adopter of the tone gard so I can’t speak to effects on finish long term, but I am confident it has a positive effect on the tone and sound when I am playing standing or slouching on the sofa.
An unexpected advantage that I have discovered is that when practicing or performing in a more “proper” posture it stabilizes the mandolin (I play an “A” style) in a similar way that the point on an “F” style can. I am thrilled with the tone gard, understand why so many speak so highly of them, and hope others find them helpful in the future.
Bookmarks