Pickup for bowlback

[MandolinoNapoletano]

Alright here's the deal, I have an antique bowlback, but I really would like to amplify it... Is there an AFFORDABLE pickup that attaches to the bridge and amplifies the instrument? Bear in mind I don't have a lot of money.

[Bob A]

I've never seen a pickup for a Neapolitan mandolin. Many players find that they can hold their own against such things as grand pianos; of course that wouldn't work in some venues.

If you absolutely must have electric amplification, you'd be far ahead to get an instrument made to play "plugged in" like an Ovation, ar a Fender electric.

Microphones are an option, but I think not a good one. Mandolins are tough to mike in a convincing way, I believe, though it's not an area in ehich I have any experience. Most of my auditors prefer something tending strongly toward "silent".