The 17-fret IT-250's short scale neck uses heavier strings and is tuned to GDAE, an octave below the mandolin. This setup is in wide use by many traditional Irish musicians because it provides the plunky tone that works so well with bodhran, pipes and fiddles. The Whyte Laydie tone ring and maple resonator add carrying power to the tone, allowing the player to use a lighter touch for greater precision with the pick.