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| Site last updated . This particular page was created 21/03/2004 and last updated 17/05/2005 Site updates |
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It's simple. All you need is a cheap Irish bouzouki and a set of mandocello strings.
You see, the Irish bouzouki (the eight-stringed version that is, not the ten-stringer) and the mandocello are very similar instruments. They have the same number of strings, more or less the same scale length (both instruments might vary a little) and the same string spacing. The only real differences are the strings and the tuning. Affordable mandocellos are hard to find, but there are lots of affordable Irish bouzoukis: Gremlin, Musikalia, Ashbury, Hora and Bestler Infinity are only a few of the brands offering them for $200-500.
You may have to widen the slots in the nut and bridge to fit the heavier strings, but that's all the work it takes.
There is a downside to it of course. There is a reason why these instrument are sold as bouzoukis rather than mandocellos. Although the basic dimensions are the same, they are definitely more suited for a higher tuning so you have to expect them to be a bit weak in the bass range when they're used as mandocellos. The exception is the Gremlin who's large body actually makes it more suitable as a mandocello than as a bouzouki!