Octave Mandolins

Add Depth to a Mandolin Orchestra with an Octave Mandolin

Belonging to the mandolin family, the octave mandolin is an instrument with four pairs of strings tuned in fifths, G, D, A, E. Just as the name implies, this instrument is an octave below a regular mandolin. It is mostly used for mandolin orchestras as an alternative for mandolas, and it can be used in playing traditional Irish music.

An octave mandolin is similar in build to a mandolin. The body is typically constructed into a bowl-shaped back from the 18th-century designs. However, starting from the mid-20th century, some manufacturers have produced this instrument with guitar-shaped bodies. It's basically constructed like an acoustic guitar with similar woods and internal bracing. However, the neck is much narrower and supports the mandolin string layout. Compared to regular mandolins, the scale is longer and varies from 19 inches to 24 inches, with 21inches being common. With regards to the scale length, the number of frets on an octave mandolin also varies from as few as 17 frets to as many as 24 frets. See the manufacturer site for details.

These are the designs and materials to consider when buying a new or used octave mandolin:

• Top: The top, or soundboard, may be carved from different materials that vary per manufacturer. Some available tops are seasoned Engelmann, Sitka, Adirondack Red spruce, and Italian Red spruce.
• Back, Sides, and Neck: These parts can also be chosen, and you can take your pick from Eastern hard maple, Red maple, Granadillo, or Mahogany.
• Finish Material: The surface texture, also called the finish, helps give color and life to the mandolin’s look. You can choose to have a French polished spirit varnish, shellac, satin, or lacquer finish to partner your style depending on your taste.

Here are some of the brands that create and manufactures these mandolins:

• Heiden: Heiden offers various stringed instruments that can be made to order and personalized by the customer. Heiden octave mandolins are said to be the result of a genuine interest in making the most responsive and player-friendly mandolins available.
• Duff: Duff octave mandolins are made in a one-man workshop that takes a very hands-on approach in making these instruments. Duff customizes the whole array of instruments in the mandolin family and caters to its customers personally.
• Pono: Pono octave mandolins manufactured by the Pono team have quality standards in solid wood construction featuring exact specifications and great tonal potential.