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Post subject: bridge saddles: level or angled?
Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 7:44 pm
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Some basses have the individual bridge saddles level in regard to the plate, other basses have each saddle at a slight angle in regard to the plate (particularly the outer strings).

I know each saddle might be different in height, but I am talking about the individual angle of each, relative to the plate.

I have always kept mine level, but wonder if there are any advantages to having them angled to mimic the curve of the fretboard.

What are your ideas on this?


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Post subject: bridge angle
Posted: Thu Jul 01, 2010 9:27 pm
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The only thing that's important here is the string height relative to the fingerboard. As the string is under tension, it represents the straightest line between two points (nut & bridge), so whether the string is on a bridge that's angled or square with the bass is not relevant. In addition, I would guess that you might actually compromise your sound if you angle the outer bridge pieces because by doing so you are deflecting some of the downward force generated by the string. The more you can get the bridge in solid contact with the string and the bass body, the better the overall resonance.

I think that some people will feel that angling the bridge works, because bridges are rounded on other instruments, particularly the violin family, but this is misleading. On a violin (or viola, cello, string bass) it's essential to curve the bridge because the top of the instrument is curved, plus it's impossible to articulate the strings with a bow if the bridge curvature is too flat.


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Posted: Fri Jul 02, 2010 12:22 am
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+1 fretless5. If the saddles are at an angle, the saddle screws are too. That drastically reduces the terminal contact between string and body. There is already very little screw there even with it flat.


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Posted: Sat Jul 03, 2010 10:55 am
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I say keep them level. The problem with angled bridge saddles is that they are unstable and will tend to move as you play the bass.

The action will change at the most inconveinent moments.

I don't care if you do this and have gotten away with no problems with the bridge saddle moving, it will happen to you sooner or later.

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