Mandolin frets aren't working?

Question:My mandolin 11th and 12th frets sound exactly the same, i can't play the 11th fret note on the D string. Is it a repair problem? Something to do with the bridge? Or what should i do?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: My mandolin 11th and 12th frets sound exactly the same, i can't play the 11th fret note on the D string. Is it a repair problem? Something to do with the bridge? Or what should i do?

Could be your adjustable bridge slipped, or your neck has started to bow. If you deliberately lowered the action or had it lowered, it might be time to raise it up a bit. If you sight the neck the same way you would a shotgun barrel, you can generally tell if it has started to bow or warp. If so, get it to a luthier right away. It might not be to late to get it straightened out. If it's just a slight adjustment problem, there are generally two screws on either side of the bridge. Loosen the strings and bring them both up evenly, about an eighth of a turn each wheel, then bring up one or two strings and see if they clear yet. The main thing is not to turn them a whole bunch at once since that will bring your action up past where it will be comfortable. Too high can be just as bad as too low, right?. If you're the least bit nervous or your bridge isn't adjustable, it's off to the luthier. Best of luck and I hope this helps.

Either the action is too low, or the neck is twisted. Take it to the shop and have a look. I have seen people put shims of thick paper or whatever under the bridge, but low action won't just wreck one fret... a single bad fret usually means twisted or bowed neck.

Depends on the mandolin and how you have it set up. It could be the bridge...is it adjustable or is it static? If it's your bridge, I'd say it was really odd that only one fret is messed up. I'd say it was more likely that your neck is a bit twisted, or that your 12th fret is a bit higher than your 11th...so when you note it, your string is actually getting noted on the 12th fret. A quick look down your fretboard would clarify that. I think a trip to the shop to see what exactly is going on is in order. Good luck!