Is there a general rule of thumb regarding how light a string gauge is okay to use on an instrument that does not have a truss rod? Is it just specific to each instrument? Or am I worrying too much over such a short, stout neck that's made to accommodate a variety of gauges without a truss rod?
I purchased a starter mando (Savannah SA-120 "Louisville") for my 11-year old son, and I considered installing a lighter gauge set for him while he's learning, but I'm concerned that the decreased tension (is it that significant?) might lead to buzzing or even back bow. The neck meets the body at the 14th fret. I don't know its scale length at this time, though.
For now, I'll use whatever gauge strings the instrument comes with, but does anyone know how, other than by trial and error, to determine a safe range of gauges?
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