clarkew - Posted - 04/29/2019:  18:09:22

Hello Mando lovers!
I want to convert my old Gibson A1 into an electric 4 string. I have been inspired by Jason Roberts and others in Texas, and want to start playing this style.
Does anybody have experience or suggestions on how to do this?
I am thinking a magnetic pickup with volume and tone knobs. Any suggestions of brand or type? Not crazy about drilling holes in my A1.
Thanks in advance!
Clarkew

MandoTom2 - Posted - 04/29/2019:  21:05:00

Some ideas...

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Edited by - MandoTom2 on 04/29/2019 21:05:54

MandoTom2 - Posted - 04/29/2019:  21:12:26

There's much to offer in parts and ideas through Google (Electrified Mandolins and Parts)...

(Click to enlarge)...

Still might be too small, but lots of similar ideas online...

MandoTom2 - Posted - 04/29/2019:  21:17:21

Try Stewart-McDonald Guitar Supply House for electric mandolin parts (pick-ups and all required parts)...

Stewart-McDonald (Pick-ups and parts for electric mandolins) - CLICK HERE...

clarkew - Posted - 04/30/2019:  06:37:53

Thanks, I’ll look at StewMac!

Yooper - Posted - 05/18/2021:  07:28:27

If you can find one, you might just buy a mandolin that was originally made as an acoustic electric, rather than drill holes in your A-1. I think that the Gibson EM-150 was a standard. Folks on MH have discussed the electric version of the Harmony Batwing, which would be a lot cheaper than an EM-150. Ibanez is making a model M510-E that you can buy new for $200 (Guitar Center), probably less than the parts to convert your A-1. Eastwood makes a sold body mandocaster for $400 new (Musician's Friend). Other options by Gold Tone, Rogue, Eastman, etc. Personally , I would not want to drill holes in your A-1 (would decrease the value a lot), but it's your mandolin. Consider yourself lucky that you have a good reason to buy another mandolin, something that many of us seek.

Edited by - Yooper on 05/18/2021 07:29:48