Re: Harsh amplified tone
A lot pf people hereabouts put a lot of store into the differences between picks. I'm not one of them. I've been using the same Dunlop 1.5mm standard issue pick deemed dead after one night's play by its previous owner I think 4-5 years ago. I think there are much more important factors here, none of which you've mentioned - make and model of instrument, type of pickup, brand of pre-amp, brand of amp or PA - though if it's a shared PA, that might be less critical. Personally, I find reverb cures a multitude of problems - softens the tone as well as adds sustain. Also, adjusting the EQ, especially trimming the highs and maybe the mid-range, should help.
I'm guessing you're using some sort of piezo pickup on an acoustic mandolin, judging from the string choice and the list of instruments in your signature. These strings could be a bit brash, though just on the wound strings. I actually boost the lows a bit to get more of a growl - I'm the main lead instrument in two bands, so I want to cut through. That may not be what you want. If this situation is something you want to focus on, perhaps nickel wound strings would be better. But I'd try working with the electronic side of your sound first.
Good luck!
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. - Dennis Miller
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