We've enjoyed tremendous success with the JM11 JazzMando flatwound strings made by Labella, having recently expanded to the JD13 mandola version, and last year, the JM10B ball-end electric mandolin. We continue to try to improve the product, including making adjustments to the length of the playing area (between the silk windings) and reinforcing the loop on the .011 gg E string.

For the most part, we've seen the progress and popularity increase beyond the jazzer and into the classical genres, occasionally we get feedback from Folk/Bluegrass enthusiasts that still seek the warmer, rounded sound these strings offer, let alone their smooth playability.

That said, there has been a recent rash of problems with the D string loops we need to make our customers aware of. This has emerged in our most recent batch of 200 sets, and we've been able to promptly replace these strings when notified. What is happening is some of these were wound too tightly on the loop, yield a circumference too small to fit on standard tailpiece tangs. In a few instances, this has affected the string's core, making it impossible to intonate correctly up the fretboard.

The JM11 string packages are factory sealed for tarnish protection, but for the time being, we are currently pre-empting potential D-string issues by opening the inner cover for personal inspection prior to shipment. Faulty strings are being immediately removed and replaced. It's important to us to discover the problem early, on our side of the sales transaction. If you purchase a package and the inside plastic is open, it's because we checked. These are quite time consuming, labor intensive steps, but we insist your satisfaction is contingent on a string that not only sounds and feels good, but is trouble free.

We appreciate everyone's patience while we get this worked out, and trust the next batch won't have these issues. Feel free to contact us if you've purchased a set where the D loop is too small, or the courses don't play in tune up the fingerboard. These are still a terrific string and quite popular. We intend to go the extra mile and work with the manufacturer closely to keep them that way.

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String purchase information: JazzMando JM11 Flatwound Strings
JazzMando Merchandise Center

Posted by Ted at March 7, 2009 5:26 AM