058 RSW Setup and Review of a Rogue A style Mandolin

Unboxing, reviewing and setting up a Rogue A-Style mandolin. This is the mandolin that I recommend to my students that are just starting and are not sure they will stick with it.

[@rick00770]

Just started learning mandolin. Think I'm going to get one of these. Played guitar over 50 years. Thanks for the review. It helped a lot.

[@RobGale]

Just got one these, before seeing your video and I'm really pleased with it. I only had to do a minor adjustment to the bridge to get the intonation right. Thanks for all the tips on setting it up properly. I'm so pleased with it and have picked it up almost every day because it's so much fun. It's my first mandolin and I which I had taken the plunge earlier!

[@timtheconjurer]

I have a rogue arriving tomorrow as a starter instrument. Saved this and the mandolessons videos on set up. I'm sure they will be near invaluable to me. Thank you for the video!

[@tiposxdiesel]

Hi Jerry from the UK. I want to thank you for this and all your videos. After watching this review I became a little curious and found the uk version which is a Stagg M-20 at a bargain price. I have just received it as my 62nd birthday present and have spent the afternoon setting it up like you have shown us- lowering and crowning a fret, re-cutting the nut and saddle, cleaning up and oiling the fretboard then setting the action. Now it is low enough to grab a pick like yours do! I am a pretty feeble guitarist and a reasonable bassist with big fat fingers so I wasn't confident about the mandolin - but I have just strummed my first song in open chords and the sound of this instrument is a real joy -it is wonderful. So I am grateful to you for sending me on this journey - keep the videos coming, you are a real inspiration in many ways. I especially love your ranch!

[@RosaStringWorks]

tiposxdiesel thank you very much kind sir. I hope you enjoy your mandolin very much. Thank you for watching.

[@audiotechlabs4650]

Jerry, I'm a good ol boy from "Missoura". Born in St. Louis, grew up in Hartsburg and Columbia and Jeff City. Lived in Ellington and Lebanon, played music all over Mo.. I just recently found your channel was blowed away with you and all you do. You are a top self maker and repair man and I love your posts on your life other than music. You make me homesick. The next time I visit my family I would love to meet you, if that could happen. Thanks so much for these wonderful videos. Thankz

[@RosaStringWorks]

You are welcome. My great uncle Gene Duncan lives just outside Ellington. Would be happy to meet you. Thanks for watching.

[@michaelpthompson]

I took mine to a professional luthier to have it set up. He was amazed they could even provide the Materials at this price for a mandolin that sounds this good. It's not a pro quality mandolin, but dollar for dollar, this is a great little instrument.

[@louieo.blevinsmusic4197]

I don’t mind it for it all. Sounds great on my homemade recordings.

[@TroyBoyleAtheistAdvocate]

Just bought one for my son, based on your review. He's already a phenomenal electric player, but I thought he'd like having this additional instrument in his arsenal. They're $59 brand new right now in 2020. Still very inexpensive.

[@thecuddlyviking6940]

I used this video as soon as I got mine in. Had it for a month now and I love it, I have trouble tuining at the 12th fret but when in beginning I heard I can tune each string and match at the 7th fret of the string above. VERY HELPFUL! If you are just starting this will take a load off worrying. Thank you very much :)

[@RosaStringWorks]

The CuddlyViking thank you very kindly I am very glad it helped

[@carlossanz866]

I like adjusting musical instruments and all of my friend pass their guitars to me. A friend of mine has just bought a Harley Benton mandolin and I had never adjusted one. This video is very useful for me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and your time.

[@rickatica]

I have an old Rogue banjo I've been playing for 14 years, still sounds good, better than when it was new.

[@RosaStringWorks]

rickatica thanks for the note. I didn't know they made banjos too.

[@bleikrsound6127]

On a whim, about five years ago Bleikr Studio purchased one of these with oval sound hole ( research has shown that the 'A' style body with an oval hole are more traditional ). We were pleasantly shocked that a very low-priced instrument came with a near perfect setup, although I did lower the nut slots for a feather-touch action ( I do this on all stringed instruments ). The tuners are adequate. After several years being kept in a climate controlled room ( appx. 50% humidity - I prefer all string instruments kept on the dry side for better resonance), this Rogue mandolin has cured nicely. Muting strings from bridge to tailpiece will stop any unwanted ringing overtones. Don't let the low price dissuade anyone, this is not a 'toy' instrument, although it's sound is 'thinner' than more expensive models.

[@michaelpthompson]

I have this exact model, except mine is black. Took it to an excellent luthier for setup. He told me he could not imagine how they even sourced the parts and materials for what I paid for it. It has its own sound, but I've played it in many an Irish session.

[@renosmaster]

Awesome video , thank you. I play guitar and have always wanted a mandolin . This video will help me a great deal .👍

[@marcusm.8374]

Thanks for this review, I was hesitating to buy one. Now I'll give it a go and make the adjustments needed. Thanks again !

[@RosaStringWorks]

You are welcome Marcus. Good luck.

[@rmiraflor]

I bought a Rogue mandolin from Musicians Friend a few years ago, the $99 version with the pickup, and it has surpassed all my expectations for an inexpensive instrument. It came setup quite nicely and very playable. I say that as an experienced guitar player with no mandolin experience. May be time for an upgrade but it has served well as a starter instrument.

[@dronai]

So you didn't have any problems with intonation I take it ? Mine is unplayable

[@AdamChitown2023]

Hi Jerry, I know it's hard to be you, but we all want to be like you. Bought a brand new Rogue, $59.99 with free shipping. Would love a Rosa, but for a starter, what you said was fair and most noble. Thank you. I've been watching you work, I love your dedication and honesty. Adam Austin Arnold. Maybe I'll ship my Gurian SM3 to you, and you can do a video on the Mortice Tenion (sp) set up of the neck/body attachment...or maybe you had one and said, never again....But thank you so much, you are a true individual...AAA

[@miked8911]

Great video just ordered one. Thanks man keep on rockin.

[@denniscleveland669]

I’m still pretty new to the mandolin and my daughter got me an Epiphone f5 for a Christmas present. It needed the same kinda setup and she also sprung for a bone nut. My wife bought me a Martin Backpacker as well. They’re both fun and sound a bit different from each other.

[@reinab8168]

My sister just got me one for my birthday, and as I unboxed it I noticed the bridge was cracked! Got to return it now, but look forward to playing it.

[@douglasthomashayden2566]

Thank you! I just picked up a Rogue, or a close relative, and now I'm just working the simple chords while I toughen up my left fingertips ;-) . Next? Scales!

[@zapa1pnt]

I have just purchased one of these from Musician's Friend (before seeing this video) $79.99. (Things change in 5 years)🙄 It certainly needed some setup. (and correction) Had to adjust the tightness of and oil the tuners. The plastic nut was off center and, certainly, cut high so, since I had to knock it loose anyway, I went ahead and made a bone one. Installed a StewMac bridge with one of Jerry's antler saddles and new strings (the originals were not in good shape). Also needed to dress the fret ends (very sharp) and found 2 frets high, so dressed them down. And then, of course, a gig bag $49.99. I've spent more On it than I Paid for it but that's OK, because some of this would need to be done to a higher priced product, as well. As Jerry mentioned, it certainly is a good place to start and, for a plywood box, it has some decent sound. I am very happy with the product and what it has cost me.😎 Now we'll see if I can learn to play it. 🤣🤣🤣

[@sweetgherkinz]

Whoa... new strings REALLY make it sound good!

[@smolville]

I bought a Chinese no name on E-bay. The local music store had to sand down the bridge and adjust the intonation. It sounds real nice now.

[@scrub_lord]

thanks for the video. im getting a mandolin for christmas this year

[@DavidDavid-bd8zo]

Just got this as a gift and am an experienced guitar player and I've had a blast with it. But I will say this is similar to a budget end guitar where you can find a great one with a particular good cut of wood. On the odd chance if you have a local music store with several of the same model and you play a couple and it sounds good buy it. If not and you buy it online it might be hit or miss.

[@effdpaul1815]

I bought a used mandolin for my first ... to see if I could play it and if I liked to play it. It is called the "New Yorker" ... probably the same kit and factory in China that this is built. It was surprisingly easy to play and sounded descent ... did some recording with it too. I set it up and put on better strings before I played it. I like the mandolin so much ... I upgraded to an F-Style Loar. It's surprising that this Rogue cost less new, than my New Yorker cost used.

[@sdfsony]

Thank you - I'll get one today and follow your setup advice.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Sony Felberg good luck.

[@dalekenjarvis]

I got the same Rogue mandolin back in about 2005 for 59.99 ( I just saw a ad on MF for the same mandolin at the same price:-). I'm not anything close to a mandolin player...I play mostly electric guitar, lap Steele and dabble around on banjo, dulcimer and keys. The mandolin has held up pretty good the tuners and bridge need replacing but for the price I'm a happy camper!

[@RosaStringWorks]

+dalekenjarvis thanks for the note. Glad it's working for you. Thanks for watching.

[@clockchoke1]

that was an awesome video. it helped me so much. I learned something today so it's a good day. and you have a great day as well.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thank you very much Jeff.

[@vincejohnston3244]

Hey Jerry, thanks for sharing these great videos. They've been really helpful! I recently ordered 2 of these Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolins from Musician's Friend and spent about 8 hours setting them up & restringing. I had one of the E strings break on both within 3 minutes of starting the setup, not a big deal - as I was planning on putting new strings on anyways, but the tailpiece on one of them had rivets that seemed a bit loose, so much so that the 1st D string rivet popped out before I could even get the string up to pitch. I put it back in and held it down while a tuned all the new strings up and it seemed to be holding, until I started playing that is. It popped right off and luckily didn't put anybody's eye out, lol. So I was wondering if you had dealt with that before and what your solution was? Any recommendations for an easy fix to make it hold? I could send it back, but then I would have to eat the shipping fee and hope that the new one they ship back would be better. Or would you recommend just replacing the tailpiece with one that doesn't have shotty rivets, and if so which one would you recommend for this model?

[@tomarthur676]

Thanks. I just had to trim the bridge a little on the E so the intonation would improve.

[@truchero11]

Great! Thanks. I want to get one of those Rogues so I can take it camping and to bonfires without having to worry about my nicer mandos.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Rogelio they would be perfect for that. Thanks for watching.

[@ijosef]

I bought a used one from Goodwill for $20. I took the pickguard off but other than that it's pretty much stock (also the tailpiece cover was gone when I bought it -no big deal). Like any ultra-low budget import, there isn't much quality control. You might get a bad one that's almost unplayable, or you might get one that's ready to go right out of the box. It's really the luck of the draw with anything like that, so take advantage of MF's return policy. If they send you a lemon, call them and get it exchanged until you get a decent one.

[@stephenclark2208]

Thanks for your videos. I've learned quite a bit, and have started doing my own repairs. I'd be interested to know what mandolin you would recommend as a budget friendly, performance mandolin. I'm an active musician and thinking about adding mandolin to my stable, but I prefer to spend once. Maybe that would be a good idea for a video.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Stephen Clark The rogue is definitely just a beginner instrument. The difficulty in recommending a mandolin is you have to play them to know. I've heard good sounding mandolins in almost every brand below the top makers. Kentucky, Alvarez, Morgan Monroe, The Loar, Eastman, Washburn, Stelling, and many more. Sorry for muddying up the answer.

[@kevinpaul1719]

No truss rod and mine really needed it. It was unplayable. I sent it back.

[@stratocactus]

Just got a similar mandolin in France two weeks ago. Harley Benton HBMA-50 mandolin VS, bought 59€ from a well know German web-store. I spent two hours preparing it (sealing loose frets, leveling frets, setting the nut and bridge, putting new strings). And well it's a pretty good mandolin for that price ! How can they make that for that price ??? For 59€ I can't even have the materials (even bad materials).

[@ericf.597]

I got this one too (the electric version), and it's true it's very good, I really enjoy playing it! It looks exactly the same as the one in this video (except for the pick guard), I suppose it's from the same manufacturer. Same shape, same head, same bridge and metal tail piece. Thank you for the video, and also for the tips about lowering the strings by adjusting the nut!

[@martybec.1257]

Mine came with goffy wound up strings like the top 3... 2 was wound up backwards from the 1st one

[@wsearp]

I just bought a Rogue F5 and very happy with it.... Lots of set up work, but very satisfied with it for the price you can't beat it... Not too happy with the cheapo tuning pegs but otherwise great....

[@lrstaf6]

Another great video. When you set the intonation, do you mark the bridge position in anyway?

[@RosaStringWorks]

No I don't I always said it by tuner every time

[@lrstaf6]

Thanks

[@mikewilliams258]

Always useful to show unboxing. I've opened hundreds of boxes but I can never remember how to do it.

[@RosaStringWorks]

The way I look at it most adults can decide for themselves whether they want to watch or turn it off. So when you grow up you'll figure that part out.

[@hifijohn]

I have one bought it a good 8 years ago and its fine for the price.I got lucky mine was setup correctly.But after 8 years its starting to act up, it doesnt want to stay in tune very well and some of the tuners have far too much play in them.Its fine for someone like me who just wants something to play with ,but I dont think any serious player would buy this.

[@ZodiacEntertainment2]

Obviously not. If you wanted to play it professionally or gig you'd probably get a mid-range mandolin at least. This is definitely aimed at people just looking to try it out.

[@esp224]

Thanks very useful .I bought an equivalent here in Australia.What strings would you suggest when it comes time to change.It has the nickel strings on it as well.I will leave them until I get a little better at playing it.I am a guitar player....Thanks again.

[@diegosuarez9407]

good video, what gauge of strings do you recommend for this mandolin model? without being damaged

[@RosaStringWorks]

In the past I've always used the standard gauge 40 down to 11 and it has held up just fine. Good luck to you.

[@BIBSTERSrepairshop]

Just ordered one Can’t wait to learn

[@thereagauze]

Decent ax for the beginner, it's on the quiet side but you probably don't want to stick out at a jam session anyway if you are starting out.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Good points, thanks for watching.

[@spikesullarok4835]

You should make a video playing "Going to My Hometown" by Rory Gallagher. I don't own a mandolin yet, but I'm planning on purchasing the starter kit on musicians friend. I was heavily influenced by that particular song by Rory Gallagher and I wanted to see how well the starter A mandolin sounds like playing the same chords.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thanks for the comment, I'll check out the tune.

[@rileykittendorf]

Hey there! I just bought one of these but the electro-acoustic version. I broke an E string while tuning it. It just arrived today. There are also some cracks in the varnish. The closest guitar center is an hour from me. The instrument seems great as far as quality. The gentleman I spoke to at that location did NOT care to speak to me. Do you have any thoughts on tuning E strings and cracking varnish? It’s not in the wood, just the thick varnish. Also, the hard case is well worth it as well

[@fortjd]

I purchased one of these a few years back to find out if I could learn mandolin. It was nice out of the box and with some minor bridge adjustments it played rather nicely... for a couple of weeks. After that, I had to readjust the saddle height every time I picked it up. Within two months, I was out of adjustment range and started cutting down the bridge. Within six months, there was no more wood I could remove from the bridge and I had to give it away as a wall hanger. Without a truss rod, the neck had become so bowed it was a lost cause. I suspect it was built with green wood. I'm just glad I only paid $69 for it. My daughter later wanted to learn mandolin and I steered her towards a solid topped Kentucky, which she has been very pleased with. I recently picked up a 1960s Harmony at a Goodwill store and will do a setup on it when I get the chance. In the meantime, I have enough guitar repair work to keep me busy for awhile. As a side note, I ran across one of these in a pawn shop (priced at $600) that had a Gibson decal applied to the headstock and a Gibson label inside. Im not an expert on mandolins, but something just didn't look right. I went back three times to look at it before I realized there was no truss rod, and was obviously not a Gibson a model. Watch out for forgeries, folks!

[@Y2daT420]

my 2cents .. the rouge is not very good .. the tuners are the main issue and non compatible with good ones ... it was my first mandolin and i could not begin to learn because it fell out of tune so quickly.. . i now have a Oscar Schmidt A style that plays and sounds great and stays in tune quite well . and was 130 ish new .. . . I did find that placing Orings or spring washers under the Rouges gears on the tuners helped lots to keep it in tune ..

[@Shawn-rq4py]

I just ordered this about an hour ago...thanks for the review!

[@RosaStringWorks]

You are welcome. Good luck

[@Shawn-rq4py]

When you change strings how do keep the bridge in the same place when you replace them ? I'm not new to music, I've played guitar for about 35 years and I have changed strings many many times I can set bridge height etc. but have never dealt w a bridge that's movable. Thanks for the advise!

[@RosaStringWorks]

+G23 one string at a time. Even then you need to take care that the bridge stays in place and remains upright.

[@Shawn-rq4py]

+Rosa String Works I got my rouge mandolin today. Strings and bridge were already on it however, the strings are as rusty as I have ever seen on a stringed instrument....disappointed in that respect. But as I said I've played guitar for years and understand strings aren't always the best...so knowing that ordered a set of strings when I bought it. I've used elixir for years on my guitar so I bought them for the mandolin also....i'll get it all set up and give an update.

[@IrishKnight99]

G23 how do you like it?

[@agatakaliska4306]

Great video. What string would you recommend?

[@RosaStringWorks]

For that mandolin I only recommend the ghs ls250. They are available on my website if you can't find them anywhere else. Www.rosastringworks.Com

[@mandolinic]

I hope you don't mind me asking. Is it worthwhile using something to lubricate the mechanism of the tuners, and what do you recommend? Ditto for the nut slot to facilitate the strings sliding over? Thanks.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Tuning Keys use three in one machine oil. For the not use pencil lead.

[@IrishKnight99]

hey I was wondering, how much do you charge to look at mandolins? I have this one, the Rouge and I've been playing around with tuning it and the bridge, but I don't know if I'm doin anythin wrong

[@RosaStringWorks]

IrishKnight99 If its just a light setup, adjusting the action, intonation, playability, then probably between $40 nd $60. Shipping and parts are at cost.

[@janseendiguiseppiThomasMC]

How hard would it be to turn it into a lefty? I've been wanting one. Can you replace the nut and flip the saddle like on a guitar?

[@jrsn2music]

I'm tempted to buy this instrument but I'm concerned about it not having a truss rod. Wondering how long before the neck gets bowed, rendering it unplayable. It's inexpensive, true, but a bowed neck will make it worthless. Any thoughts about this? Thanks for all your great videos! John

[@RosaStringWorks]

jrsn2music I haven't seen a problem with one yet. But I guess it's always possible.

[@jrsn2music]

I took your advise and bought the Rogue. I got the black one. It really is a good looking mandolin. Mine needed a setup as expected as the first fret action was too high for my liking. I decided to replace the plastic nut by making a new one using a Graphtech Tusq nut blank which worked out very well. Now the action is great and it's very easy to play. I bought this mandolin as a project instrument to see if I could install a piezo pickup and preamp so that I can play it plugged in with the church band that I play in. That's the next step in this project. Thanks again, Jerry, you have a great channel and I have learned a lot watching your videos. John

[@WhoTFstolemyname]

Thanks for the video. What strings do you recommend? Anything you can do to combat buzz between the g strings? They seem to always have some buzz between them. Also, have you noticed that the bridge adjusters aren't perpendicular to the feet of the bridge? I've had two (returned first for this reason) and the top of the bridge seems to lean forward heavily (nearly independently of the feet).

[@RosaStringWorks]

Austin I would recommend ghs LS250 strings. The problem with the buzz on the G string if it is actually the two strings buzzing together you just need to separate them either at the nut or at the bridge. I'm not sure which without looking at it. Regarding the feet standing up straight on the bridge, that is very common problem with any mandolin. You just need to pay attention to that and keep it straightened up all the time. As you tune it, it will always pull forward. Just a fact of all mandolins.

[@WhoTFstolemyname]

Thanks for the quick response! I'm guessing it's the bridge, as the distance is about the same at the bridge as at the nut. re: tilt, the feet are planted squarely on the body of the instrument, but the top of the bridge leans where the adjustable screws are.

[@RosaStringWorks]

+Austin the lean is very common. You might try turning the base around. Keep the saddle part pointed in the same direction.

[@WhoTFstolemyname]

Hm interesting. Thanks. When I change the strings out I'll try it. Really appreciate it.

[@erniemiller1953]

I bought a used one, then paid $30 to have a professional set it up. Then, it sat in my closet for a year. Now, I play it every day for an hour. Still a beginner, but that is because I am breaking bad guitar habits while learning.

[@charlieosborn9181]

M

[@Popcorn_Kernel]

I'm more used to guitar and banjo now I'm getting a mandolin and I'm going to have to learn all this stuff

[@1980bwc]

I just got my first one about 3 weeks ago. I love it!

[@Popcorn_Kernel]

@@1980bwc just got the mandolin and the first time it was perfect now I play Dixieland, when Johnny comes Marching in, and sink the bismark on it

[@MonsieurVersatile]

How do you know how deep to cut the nut slots? Is there a typical measurement you go for at the first fret?

[@shawn68able]

I'm thinking of making this purchase, and was very curious, what it would cost to have done, the things you did to the mando in the video ?

[@RosaStringWorks]

Shawn, thanks for watching. I base everything on an hourly charge plus parts. It will take the biggest part of an hour to set it up properly so about $50 is a good ball park figure. If you want, I can order it for you, that way you only have to pay shipping back to you. Would love to help you with it. If you want to pursue it, send me a message at: [e-mail]

[@Reaper_Howler-1]

I know this is an older video for you. I recently ordered this same mandolin and was curious as to what pick you would recommend for playing it. I have never played a stringed instrument in my life and I am at a loss.

[@steveharris2589]

I always wondered about those mandolins.Will a mondolin that is Lamanated last very long?

[@RosaStringWorks]

They hold up well as long as they are not subjected to huge changes in humidity and temperature.

[@dannyhensley2578]

I have a rover a style and. On the 12 th fret on my G string and the 11 th fret is my G I measured from the top but to the 12 th fret got my measurements and set my bridge in place but still the same. Any pointers will be appropriated thanks

[@RosaStringWorks]

Sorry I read that a couple of times but I just don't understand the problem.

[@dannyhensley2578]

I watched your video. And it makes a lot of sense to me. But. My open g string or high e string don’t match sound wise. When I fret the g string on the twelfth fret. Makes the sound ofA on my tuner.

[@mandolinic]

@@dannyhensley2578 Maybe the bridge is in the wrong position. The general rule is that if the note is sharp at the 12th fret then the string is too short and you need to slide the bridge down towards the tailpiece to lengthen the string. If the note is flat at the 12th fret then the string is too long and you need to slide the bridge up towards the nut to shorten the string. Most people set up the G and E strings, and hope that the D and A strings will be close enough. After you've done this, you will probably need to raise or lower the bridge using the little adjusters to get the strings to a comfortable height where they don't buzz. And then you might need to make a further adjustment to the string lengths. It's a time consuming process which might take the best part of an hour until you've got it just right.

[@mirekklemens662]

New Subscriber 👍 My regards from New York. ❤👍

[@BanjoPicker]

can you recommend strings for the Rogue Mando??

[@RosaStringWorks]

Ghs LS250 if you can't find them , they are available on my website.

[@nytrayfl2]

I just received a used one as a gift. Anyone know replacement machine heads for these? My tuners are very loose. Thank you.

[@Popcorn_Kernel]

i started playing the banjo and guitar and then the mandolin and my fingers weren't used to it so it hurt for a while now its like nothing

[@JC-yd9db]

since I play ukulele If I get a Mandolin i want to tune it to GCEA, is that ok to do ?

[@YaBoiKenpai]

I just got mine today and the E string broke during tuning so I was wondering what strings you would recommend

[@RosaStringWorks]

Vurtdafurk Miller the mandolin can handle medium strings. It will sound better with the medium strings versus the light strings. I suggest getting the ghs LS250s. They can be found on my website www.rosastringworks.com. Good luck. Thanks for watching.

[@YaBoiKenpai]

Rosa String Works sorry to bother you again. I think my tuners on the mandolin may be broken. I replaced my broken string yet whenever I get it to be about a D the tuner snaps it back to a lower pitch and I'm wondering if I can do something to fix that or if I should try to get a whole new tuner set

[@RosaStringWorks]

Vurtdafurk Miller Maybe you should return it and get a new one.

[@YardPimp]

Did you return it or find a solution to the problem? Mine is in the mail and I want to have all my ducks in a row.

[@danogle9927]

Thank you,learned a good deal

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@steveharris2589]

Good Video Jerry)))

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thanks Steve.

[@learningallican7608]

After all the waiting for you to set it up it would have been nice to hear it a little,,,

[@ftdoomplays]

Is all that setup necessary if you're just buying a mandolin to try to it out? I've played guitar for years and I want to try to branch out into mandolin.

[@RosaStringWorks]

ftdoomta it depends on the instrument some of them a're ready to play right out of the box and they don't need much at all others need quite a bit of tweaking

[@Loungemermaid]

Do mandolin keys slip? I’m a violinist used to friction pegs, these are a completely new animal for me

[@RosaStringWorks]

Generally speaking mechanical keys don't slip. Lots of people claim they do but generally speaking they don't slip at all. The reason people think they slip is that they often tune down to a note rather than up. As long as you tuned up to your note a typically don't slip the reason they slipped the other way is because there is something called backlash in the gears.

[@Loungemermaid]

Rosa String Works oh good! I’m just getting into mandolins, haven’t even bought one yet, still just watching people talk about them. I’ve had so much trouble with my violin pegs I was scared I was going to have issues with a mandolin but it sounds like tuning should go easy. Well, easier anyway! I can’t get over moving the bridge for intonation, though, that’s so wild! I’m used to intonation being my fault not my instrument’s!

[@roberteasleysr9108]

May I ask what the nut action was after you lowered it ? Or , what is the string height at the first fret suppose to be ?

[@RosaStringWorks]

Robert Easley Sr Thanks for watching. I usually set the action to .018" at the first fret.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Btw, that is roughly equivalent to the thickness of a "thin" pick.

[@roberteasleysr9108]

Rosa String Works Thank you , I own a Bestlor mandolin , a lower end instrument, that I would like to make sound better. Your videos are so helpful , and informative . I'll check it tomorrow.

[@donsannella1572]

Thanks for the useful video! When you say .018" at the first fret, do you mean (1) between the strings and the fingerboard or (2) between the strings and the first fret wire? I'm guessing you must mean 1.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Don Sannella Fret wire to string. Thanks for watching.

[@briancollins3177]

I just received my second (replacement) Rogue mandolin. I am not able to get the tailpiece cover to stay on. I have watched a youtube video on how to slide it on while pressing downward on the cover,....the cover will not stay on, falls off immediately,...was the same on the first one I received. Have you seen this issue on the Rogue Mandolins? Thoughts on how o fix it?

[@mandoguitarsongs3151]

I fixed the same problem by taking some pliers and just bending the lip of the metal cover a bit to tighten up the friction . Works fine. Very small adjustment, maybe 1/16".

[@willieclark2256]

Can you do a review of the f style?

[@RosaStringWorks]

Jacob Clark if I had one I would do that. I order them in for specific customers. So unless someone orders one, it's unlikely that I'll do a review. Thanks for watching. I have set them up in the past and I think that they're just fine. The main difference is, they just cost a little bit more. Thanks for watching.

[@johnkuczek7724]

What is that Tool called that you are using very novice here I play in fiths or one finger chords I've noticed that I here the buzzing on my Rouge thank you for your Info. Sir.

[@RosaStringWorks]

John Kuczek this was quite a while ago I scanned through the video it looks like I was using a fret file to cut the slots deeper into the nut that would be because the strings were too high if you lower the strings more or you may get more buzzing. You may have a fret out of level I'm not sure what's causing your buzzing that may require different action.

[@johnkuczek7724]

Rosa String Works : Ty for your Quick response, I believe that the buzzing is gone. But now I need to know if I can play this with one finger like I do with my guitars ?

[@RosaStringWorks]

John Kuczek sorry but I can't help you with the one finger idea.

[@lanemcelfresh2230]

what are good strings that i can buy that dont have a tuny sound i have a RM-100A A-style mandolin

[@RosaStringWorks]

Lane, I'd recommend GHS LS250. Silk and Steel. I sell them $8 per set + $4.50 shipping up to 3 sets at a time. If you can't find them anywhere else let me know and I can send you a Paypal invoice. Thanks for watching.

[@lanemcelfresh2230]

Thank you very much j think I found them

[@lanemcelfresh2230]

D'Addario EJS74 Stainless Steel Medium Mandolin Strings (11-40) will these work

[@RosaStringWorks]

Wouldn't be what I would recommend. Those would probably sound real harsh. The silk and steel have a nylon/silk core.

[@lanemcelfresh2230]

ok and then i found these Elixir Medium Nanoweb Mandolin Strings

[@lene.642]

Can you tune the Rogue A style Mandolin to Ukelele tuning (G,C,E,A) or am I being naive? Someone told me it was possible. Just thought I'd ask.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Len E. I have never tried it but I would think so. thank you for watching

[@lene.642]

Thanks for the reply. It is appreciated.

[@zapa1pnt]

Len E.: Did you re-tune yet? I am 3 years late to comment but was thinking it would be a good idea to swap the E and A strings, before re-tuning, due to their gauges and respective notes.

[@LesterElm1]

Jerry, I just ordered a Black Rogue A-Style (they no longer carry the F-Style). What strings do you use on your mandolins?

[@RosaStringWorks]

LesterElm1, I use 4 sets. D'Adarrio J74, J75. GHS A270, LS250. My suggestion is try the LS250. If you can't find them, I could mail them to you for $12 (includes) shipping. The only set I wouldn't use on the Rogue is the J75. Might be too heavy for that mandolin. If you want me to ship the strings go into Paypal and send $12 to this email address: [e-mail]

[@LesterElm1]

+Rosa String Works I use D'Addario EJ74 on my Fender FM-53S. Would these be good for the Rogue?

[@RosaStringWorks]

+LesterElm1 not familiar with the number, but if thry are phosphor bronze, they should work. The LS250, are silk and steel. They will probably make yhe Rogue sound more woody, and tone down some of the highs.

[@LesterElm1]

+Rosa String Works Yes, they are medium phosphor bronze (.011 - .015 - .026 -.040) Thanks.

[@LesterElm1]

The D'Addario EJ74 are the same strings as the J74. They just changed the packaging to make it environmentally friendly hence the 'E' prefix. I got this info directly from a D'Addario production manager.

[@user-hx8kn4gd6y]

What do you think about the RM100F compared to this A-style? Quality vs sound.

[@RosaStringWorks]

M F I have seen several of the Rogue F-styles and they are pretty decent for the price. Sound and quality are pretty good in that price range. There are several used ones on Ebay presently. Mihht be able to save a few bucks.

[@RosaStringWorks]

M F I have seen several of the Rogue F-styles and they are pretty decent for the price. Sound and quality are pretty good in that price range. There are several used ones on Ebay presently. Mihht be able to save a few bucks.

[@user-hx8kn4gd6y]

Although, I really like the "F" style, I keep reading how one can get "more bang for the buck" buying an "A" style. I'm about to purchase an Ibanez M510. Have you any knowledge of these and do they require much "tweaking" to get them just right? Thanks.

[@RosaStringWorks]

M F sorry probably have seen one but don't recall any specifics.

[@RosaStringWorks]

FiddleStick's thanks for watching.

[@martybec.1257]

Also the pick guard was loose also the medal string cover plate fell off as i took out of packaging and had to bend the medal piece to keep it on wish i would have sent back and got my money back !!! And may still will

[@JC-yd9db]

Have you herd of Glarry Mandolin ? any thoughts

[@noahcartermusic2546]

Don't get it. Get rogue instead. The glary mandolin had a million things wrong with it and they wouldn't even give us our money back

[@IrishKnight99]

is there a good way to tune it without a device?

[@RosaStringWorks]

IrishKnight99 if you have a good ear, (real good) it might be possible. Snark tuners are cheap and they work well. Nearly everyone uses one. Pretty much the only way to ensure standard tuning. The old-timers used to use pitch pipes and tuning forks. So a device is pretty much standard practice. Thanks for watching.

[@syn707]

The only thing I would add to this is...if you are playing with other musicians, it makes it extremely hard to hear your strings properly. They are either tuning up too, or doodling around waiting for you or getting their sound if they are using amplification. So I would advise getting a tuner. I have several, including the Snark and it works fine.

[@mandolinic]

I've been playing for about 40 years (not that I'm any good at it). When I first started, I got a concert A tuning fork, and used that to tune the A string. (Strike the fork on your hand (not on the table!) and hold it against the bridge). Then I'd tune the 7th fret of the D string to A string, then the 7th fret of the G string to the D string. Finally, the E string to the 7th fret of the A string. Then start again and go round the complete cycle a couple more times until the tuning was stable. However, this method assumes that the intonation is already correct which you don't really know unless the shop has already set it up correctly. Today, I use a Snark tuner. It's so much easier and gives a much better result. It also allows you to check the intonation.

[@waynegoff764]

Do you know where they are manufactured?

[@RosaStringWorks]

No, guessing China.

[@crabtrap]

the sub $200 mandolins(and definitely the rogue 100) needs a quick fret leveling and recrown (just 1000 grit/steelwool and finger buff.its a flat radius board so its ez).....the frets are incredibly un even from factory. do that and the buzzing goes away and you can drop the action to the floor. the other horrible thing about these and really MOST mandolins....is the horrible tuners and there seems to be no real 'better' replacement. what i do for my customers is use a mating paste like gunsmiths use....take apart one tuner at a time and paste the gears,assemble and turn with a winder for about 3 mins. take apart again,clean,lube and reassemble. much smoother action. obviously you can't do this for a bunch of students but thought i'd pass it on.

[@AndrewsGarage1]

Just ordered this for $54 from Target who has partnered with Musicians Friend.

[@alamandavijaykumar15]

In mumbai where you can get

[@zapa1pnt]

www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=mumbai++buy+mandolin

[@alamandavijaykumar15]

Thank you

[@johng4127]

Can I ask what tuner you are using?

[@RosaStringWorks]

Sorry can't recall the brand. I've been using it for 20 years.

[@diddlytube]

Looks like a Korg. I've noticed that most setup guys who don't use something really high-end like a Peterson or Conn seem to use Korgs. I use them myself, and have had good luck with them, although I'm sure that other reputable brands like Boss are also fine. Avoid the lower-end stuff (most of which is crapola -- you can view shootouts online that prove it.) Also, remember that if you buy a tuner for anything that's not a guitar or bass, be sure that it has a CHROMATIC mode, so you can tune to any note. Otherwise it's likely to have a single mode for tuning the 6 strings of a guitar, and won't work for the mandolin pitches. You'll probably end up spending more for a decent tuner than the $50 spent on this Rogue mandolin, but it's a worthwhile investment.

[@RosaStringWorks]

It is a Korg.

[@diddlytube]

John G: Mr. Rosa having confirmed Korg, I'll chime in that I use one of two Korgs. First is an older GT-120, a needle tuner with several modes for alternate tunings, plus a full chromatic mode. The other is a Pitchblack, an LED stompbox type. The stomp has the advantage of durability, and ease of reading in the dark if you play live. The LEDs are less jittery than some other LED types I've tried. The GT-120 is more for doing my own half-baked setup work at home, but it's not really a "road" unit -- more for the bench. One advantage it has over the Pitchblack is that it has a built-in mic. The Pitchblack does not, so you need a clip-on mic or an instrument with a pickup to feed it a signal. I've tested them against one another and the factory pitches are matched, which is something you can't always assume with cheapos. There is a calibration mode so you can match them to other tuners if you play in a group setting, when someone else's tuner does not have a perfectly accurate reference pitch.

[@RosaStringWorks]

John, thanks for watching. I appreciate your comments. Please dont take offense, none intended. Your experience with tuners is just different than mine. I sell all kinds of the cheap tuners. I often clip on 2 different kinds at the same time and usually can't (actually never) see any diffence at all in the readings. Been testing them that way for years. (I have seen others compare them on KZbin but their experience is just different than mine.) I use a snark on my mandolin for stage work. It is very fast, easy to read, and I am very happy with it. In fact, I have used the clip on Peterson Strobo (don't recall exact model) few times and find them slow kind of annoying to me personally especially considering the price. My conclusion is unless you have an ear that is better/more discriminating than a dog, I think most of the cheapos are plenty good enough. Thanks again for your opinion and I do really appreciate your taking the time to watch.

[@thesockthatcan]

Why move the bridge?

[@WC_Beer_Reviews]

thomas it helps the notes stay accurate at each fret.

[@RosaStringWorks]

thomas that is correct you are setting what is called the intonation. If the intonation is not correct then none of the notes will be correct. If you've ever seen a guitar player have to retune after they put a capo on it's because their intonation is not correct.

[@jamiecampbell88]

U should get a string winder they are very cheap

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thanks for commenting, I have several, but don't really care to use them. With the small number of wraps I use, it isn't too bad.

[@minibikesandgocarts7832]

Is it true that they are plastic?

[@RosaStringWorks]

No, plywood.

[@minibikesandgocarts7832]

+Rosa String Works is a 100a

[@RosaStringWorks]

+Mini bikes And go carts Sorry, I don't understand. is a 100a

[@minibikesandgocarts7832]

+Rosa String Works I ment is it a rouge 100a mandolin

[@RosaStringWorks]

+Mini bikes And go carts I suppose that's the model number I don't recall it off hand they only make two models an A model and an F model. I have bought both of them and as far as I know neither one of them are plastic. They're both plywood

[@fabinhoMANO1]

You should cover your adress while showing the shipping receipt.

[@RosaStringWorks]

Thank you. You are probably right. However my address is published on my website for shipping purposes.

[@fabinhoMANO1]

You're welcome. Nice video by the way.

[@syn707]

I just got mine. I've been playing the guitar for some 50+ years...I consider myself advanced. I am really into recording and wanted to add Mandolin. Didn't want to ask for something beyond a beginners model as a Christmas present. I've had it now three weeks and it just blows me away. Does it compare to a Weber at $4000.00? NOT IN YOUR LIFE! but for the money...this will last me quite a long time to see how far I advance and if buying an upgrade with worth it. TO CHANGE THE STRINGS...DOES THE BRIDGE PLATE SLIDE OFF LIKE IN OTHER MANDOS? I SAW ANOTHER VIDEO OF THAT BEING DONE. I GAVE IT A COUPLE OF TRIES AND NOTHING BUDGED. IF I KNEW THATS WHAT I HAVE TO DO, I'LL GIVE IT A LOT MORE PRESSURE. I'm playing mine a lot since I want to improve and want to begin using it in some of my recordings. They will soon wear out or break. THANK YOU FOR THE GREAT VIDEO...ALTHOUGH THE SETUP SHEET THAT COMES WITH THIS IS VERY CLEAR. BUT I THINK FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER DONE A SETUP, YOUR VIDEO WILL BE EXTREMELY HELPFUL.

[@RosaStringWorks]

syn707 thank you. The tailpiece cover should slide off. Some are tighter than others.

[@syn707]

I did find a vid on YT showing how to remove it...mine was hard...and even though it wasn't expensive, I didn't want to hurt it either. This is just a fantastic mando...FOR THE PRICE!!!

[@RosaStringWorks]

syn707 great!

[@kairinase]

You have to intonate it? Glad I learned electric guitar first.

[@ericf.597]

The bridge is loose, so yes, you have to adjust the intonation. It's not that hard. And your electric guitar might need to have this fixed as well ;)

[@kairinase]

@@ericf.597 My preferred technique to intonate an electric guitar is to tune all strings and put a capo on the 12th fret. Then I adjust the saddles until they're in tune. Would it work on an instrument with floating bridge, like mandolins?

[@zapa1pnt]

@@kairinase : That method will not work, on any instrument. When you move/adjust the bridge, you change the length of the open string and have to re-tune to pitch. So, if you set your bridge with a capo on the 12th fret, when you remove the capo, you will then need to re-tune the string to pitch and then check intonation at the 12th fret. What you are doing with the capo is just complicating matters and working backwards. Setting intonation is a process. Just like a scientific formula or a kitchen recipe, if you want good results, you have to follow the process. What you are doing may seem reasonable, but if you think about it, hopefully, you will understand why it is not.

[@kairinase]

@@zapa1pnt Rather than criticizing me, tell me how *you* would do it! As backwards as it might be, it has worked many times and most people swear by the method. Especially with people who don't know anything about stringed instrument, and didn't have any technician to fix their stuff. It's not rocket science, and the instrument used (tuners and capos) are easily available to anyone. The method actually saved countless guitars and similar instruments from being left out to rot in storage. Just like recipes, there are shortcuts, to say that the way other have done it is wrong, seems folly and it makes you sound like Gordon Ramsey. So tell me, how you would do it? No going to music store and getting the staff set the intonation, cause most people reading don't have access to that privilege. Most people are buying their stuff online. Walk the talk... Just tell me and the other readers how you do it!

[@zapa1pnt]

@@kairinase: I was not criticizing you or calling you backward. I was only informing you. I intonate mine in the standard method, as Jerry does. I won't bother going any deeper into it, as you obviously have difficulty with instruction.

[@martybec.1257]

I'm not pleased,with the one I recieved not even 1 month ago oh I will sell to anyone for abit less than i paid so $89.00 sell for $60.00

[@RosaStringWorks]

It sounds like you may have got a customer returned. I really haven't had too much trouble with them. Obviously you can't expect much, for less than $100. As I've said they're good to learn on to see if you're really have an interest but that's about it.

[@Billkwando]

I bet the setup cost nearly as much as that mandolin.