The Rise of Electric Mandolins
Although it is commonly thought of as an old fashioned instrument, mandolin guitars have experienced something of a revival recently, due in large part to the increase in popularity of electric mandolins. The mandolin evolved from the lute and was very popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. There generally two types of common mandolin guitars: the bluegrass and the folk (sometimes called "cutaway") models. The bluegrass version is characterised by its arched top and back, and it may have "f" holes. The folk model is larger and has an oval or round hole. Traditionalist can also use round-backed mandolin guitars, though these are not as popular today.
One problem with traditional mandolin guitars is that their small body and high pitch means that they produce a relatively faint sound. However, today's electric mandolins have overcome this problem by enabling mandolin guitars to be amplified.
Electric mandolins explained
So what exactly is an electric mandolin? The electric mandolin is played just like a normal mandolin and is amplified in much the same way as the electric guitar. It was first produced in the United States back in the late 1920s and has seen several improvements through the years. Today's electric mandolins manufacturers make both a four string single course and the more popular eight string double course. Both of these mandolins have a flat back which produces a more open sound which projects well. By amplifying mandolin guitars you are better able to hear the instrument, especially when it is played with other instruments in a band.
Who plays electric mandolins?
Given that they have names such as bluegrass and folk, you may think that mandolin guitars are play just in folk and country and western music – but you would be mistaken.
Mandolin guitars have been used by some leading rock/pop artists for years. These include the well known introduction of Rod Stewart's "Maggie May" and R.E.M.'s hit "Losing my Religion". More recent artists using electric mandolins include Jack White of White Strips and Matt Bellamy of Muse. Both of whom regularly use electric mandolins when they are recording and performing.
Selecting the right electric mandolin
If you are tempted to join the ranks of leading musical artists and take up playing mandolin guitars, look no further than Fret Music. We offer a good variety of eight string acoustic and electric mandolins from three leading manufactures – Godin, Ozark and Stagg. So whether you are a beginner or a seasoned expert we are sure to have acoustic or electric mandolins to suit your needs.
Starting with the electric mandolin
If you are new to the world of electric mandolins you should consider starting with one of our more reasonable priced mandolin guitars – the Stagg M50E Electric-acoustic Bluegrass mandolin. Stagg has been around for more than 12 years and by is one of Europe's leading manufacturers of musical instruments. Stagg provides good quality, affordable musical instruments and accessories for musicians of all levels. Stagg's instruments, including its mandolin guitars, are handmade using its own designs. The Stagg M50E costs less than £80, making it an affordable instrument for someone just starting out on the electric mandolin. You could also consider leaning to play on non-amplified mandolin guitars such as the Stagg M30 Bluegrass Mandolin, before moving on to electric mandolins.This would be a good way to learn, assuming you are not playing with an electric band.
Electric Mandolins for experienced players
If you are an accomplished musician who is looking for a better sounding mandolin you may want to consider the Stagg 2252 Electric-acoustic Cutaway Mandolin with Moulded Back. Another option is the Ozark 2255 Electric-acoustic Cutaway Mandolin with Moulded Back. Ozark has a reputation for making top quality musical instruments and its mandolin guitars are no exception. The Ozark 2255 is one of the best electric mandolins around, making it a good choice for an accomplished musician.
Electric mandolins for the seasoned Pro
Robert Godin is often thought to be one of the best (if not the best) manufacturer of mandolin guitars. The Godin A8 Electric-acoustic Mandolin is an outstanding instrument; it is pleasurable to play and offers a lovely acoustic mandolin sound at a decent volume. Godin's A8 Electric-acoustic Mandolin provides a great combination of traditional woody sound with sleek modern design and electronics. It makes a wonderful sound which projects well, even when played acoustically. There is no doubt that Godin A8 is an excellent choice for an expert player who it looking for a top of the range mandolin.
Electric mandolin guitars give bands another string to their bow
With the advent of the electric mandolin this instrument has experience a bit of a revival recently. More and more musicians are using the mandolin to get that characteristic woody tone. And through amplification, mandolins now offer electric bands yet another instrument and sound to incorporate in to their music.
