Bouzouki vs. Mandolin: What is the difference between them?

Posted by George M. Clark on September 26th, 2019

Bouzouki vs. Mandolin

Bouzouki and Mandolin are unique instruments, especially to people advancing from playing guitars and other basic instruments. The two instruments share a lot of similarities, and they are also different in many ways (as discussed below).

This piece explores ways in which bouzouki is similar to mandolin and more importantly, how the two instruments are different from each other.

Are the two instruments similar in tuning and primary scale length?

No.

The difference in tuning and primary scale length are the most visible difference between the two instruments. Due to variation in primary scale length and general tuning, different players have a different experience on each of them.

When it comes to gauging strings, most people prefer mandolins because they have lighter gauge strings. The gauge strings in this instrument help the player to achieve the “zingier tone,” which is one of the best tones in different genres. It is a common knowledge that mandolins — unlike most musical instruments — has GDAD tuning.

On the other hand, bouzoukis, especially Irish bouzoukis, have a distinctive rhythm — which is second to none. Most of the instruments available in stores have GGDDaadd strings. Musical pundits have compared GDAD and GGDD tunings over the years, and there is a common consensus — GGDD is better in terms of rhythm.

The size of bouzoukis is bigger than a mandolin

Mandolin is smaller compared to a standard bouzouki — primarily because of primary scale length. Even though there are variants of the two instruments — for example, Irish and Greek bouzouki — the difference in size is common across the two instruments.

Does the size of the two instruments affect the playing experience?

Yes, just like other instruments, the size makes a huge difference — both in playing and caring for the instrument around. The small-sized mandolin is potable, and this explains the reason why the instrument is gaining popularity, especially with the new music players.

On the other hand, the larger bouzoukis are also portable — thanks to their balanced weight. Contrarily to the popular belief that bouzoukis are heavy and cumbersome to carry around, they are lighter than most guitars. Therefore, carrying bouzoukis around is not weighty, especially to the young instrument players.

Which instrument is ideal when making a transition between different musical instruments?

The question of which of the two instruments is ideal when making transitions between instrument creates a grey area. First, the two instruments are suitable for any player making a transition from the traditional guitars. However, the experience is different.

For example, mandolin emphasis more on finger techniques as opposed to distinctive rhythms in the best bouzouki. Therefore, a mandolin is an ideal step to playing complex instruments such as the violin.

On the other hand, one can also make a smooth transition from guitars to violin through bouzoukis. It is nevertheless important to appreciate the fact that the two instruments produce a different set of instrument players. Irish bouzoukis, for example, help the players to nurture rhythm while mandolin is ideal for assisting the player in to nurture a versatile sound.

Prices: Do the two instruments differ in terms of costs?

Apart from different musical experiences between the instruments, price points between the instruments is a major determiner when making a switch. However, the question of “which instrument is expensive than the other” creates a lot of grey areas.

First, different instruments in each category come at different price points. Not all bouzoukis have a similar price tag. The same case applies to different types of mandolin instruments. Second, the materials used to make each instrument determine the price point of any instrument. Thirdly, each company has its approach to pricing, and therefore, each instrument is individually priced.