Re: Pros/Cons - 4 vs. 8 strings
My first true electric was a Gibson EM-150. I had a deuce of a time keeping the pairs in tune, and it really sounded harsh through the PA. So I went with single strings. Much better. I do miss the ringing singing strings, that distinctive mandolin sound. Electric 12-string guitars seem to sound just fine, though admittedly, when we're talking about amazing talents like McGuinn, 'nuff said.
Some dozen years ago I picked up an Epihone MandoBird four-string, and later upgraded to a Ryder 44 four-string. Somewhere along the line I heard using light gauge strings would make them easier to play. Boy howdy! No kidding. I can get a nearly three-fret bend if I ever want. But most of the time, just a little bend here and there is enough. Can't get that on my amplified acoustic - maybe a half-fret.
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. - Dennis Miller
Furthering Mandolin Consciousness
Finders Keepers, my duo with the astoundingly talented and versatile Patti Rothberg. Our EP is finally done, and available! PM me, while they last!
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