Dobro pickups & Repair

[Scooter Heath]

Hey guys thanks for all the tuning info. I just put a McIntyre Acoustic Feather in my Dobro. It sounds a little "Squaky" in the midrange area when I plug it into my Nashville 400. Will one of those Baggs preamps like the Para-acoustic (SP?) DI or the GigPro help me with this or should I use an acoustic guitar amp??

Also, While I had that thing torn apart I used a wooden dowel to fill the holes so when I put the coverplate back on, the screws wouldn't rattle. Now one side is raised and it stripped the new holes almost instantly. Do the coverplates have a proper direction....could I have put it on the wrong way? Also any suggestions for getting those darn screws to quit popping out & rattling would be greatly appreciated!!!!!

[D Schubert]

Old cover plates have a patent-pending stamped near the brige slot. This goes between the bridge and the tailpiece. I don't think this applies to newer ones -- Dobros and all others appear to have "generic" cover plates today. If it doesn't fit flush on the guitar, it would be easy enough to rotate it 180° for an alternate test fit. And, are those dowel plugs causing the screws to go in cock-eyed?

[Kenny Davis]

Paul Beard uses tiny screw inserts for his coverplate installation. They are metal, and threaded. This would probably be the best method to ensure your screws staying put.

[Kenny Davis]

Regarding your pickup & amp, I use a Fishman Pro-EQ. However, I never have been happy playing my Dobro through my Session 400. Mine seems to sound better direct (PA) or through an accoustic amp such as a California Blonde or one of the new Fender amps.

[David Stehman]

Best for me is "Feather" to Baggs Para acoustic to California Blonde or PA,
Much better than Line 6 pOD and/or Peavey
KB100 amp, tho they're good for other stuff!
Leave your older McIntyre pou in and blend them for some great sound options. The original endpin jack is stereo, so there you
go.
Dave