Not usually prone to getting to caught up in instrument upgrades, we recently took the plunge with our revered Draleon Royale Gypsy Jazz Mandolin, refretting with larger frets and adding a custom pickguard produced by fellow Texas picker and wood hobbyist, Doug Edwards. (Great guy to work with!)

Doug did some fine work on this; it's a nice addition to an already incredible instrument. The larger frets are an improvement, too. We'll be documenting that shortly as we investigate aspects of auditioning "variables" in our Tips and Tricks section in the next couple days.

Pictures and discussion at the Mandolin Cafe Message Board: Royale Mods

Enjoy desktop wallpaper: Royale

Also, Andy from Century Strings tells us they just received four more Royales (two blonde, two classic sunburst) and expect more in May. Give us a shout if you need help hooking up.

Posted by Ted at April 28, 2007 6:00 AM