We introduced a ball-end version of our widely popular JM11 Flatwound Mandolin Strings in April this year with some mixed results. The JM10B worked swimmingly well on solidbody electric mandolins; customers were happy with the warm tone and smooth on fixed position/individually adjustable bridges. Unfortunately, out of the gate our first batch failed on some of the popular acoustic-electrics, the Ovation in particular. E-strings were popping on the ball, and D-courses were not intonating properly because of some core material issues.

That was then, this is now...

We're happy to report the latest improved version of the JM10B is responding extremely well. If you have an Ovation mandolin, this might well be the answer you seek for the less harsh, artificial sound these instruments are demonized for unplugged. Problems solved.

We'd especially like to thank newly deputized Field Research Assistant Lynn Tillman for taking the time to video her field-testing experience. If you want to enjoy documentary of her personal string discovery, check out her YouTube account: TLMN8R Videos.

Purchase information: JazzMando JM10B Strings

Posted by Ted at December 15, 2008 5:52 AM