Using cardboard shims under bridge feet!?

JDM · #1 08-15-2007, 04:58 AM

I'm having trouble eliminating some neck buzz since correctly positioning my bridge. I've already got 7mm of cardboard shims under the feet (cut to to fit the foot so as not to look too ridiculous). I know I need to buy an adjustable bridge but I can't afford one just yet) I know it's NOT ideal but with this UNDUELY affect my sound/tone? Has anyone else resorted to this in the absence of an adjustable bridge?
The height of my bridge (bottom of foot to outer edge of curve at the top is 15.5cm)

**Matthew Tucker** · #2 08-15-2007, 06:00 AM

many layers of cardboard won't be the best because they may tend to absorb some of the vibrations instead of transmitting them straight to the top. But they won't hurt your bass.

You can just get adjusters installed in your existing bridge, you don't necessarily need to get a completely new bridge.

JDM · #3 08-15-2007, 06:27 AM

Thanks for that advice Matt, I figured that as the card strips I'm using are so compressed under the bridge that they would be fine for transmitting the vibrations? Any other views are welcome! Cheers, Jon

JDM · #4 08-15-2007, 06:40 AM

Just another thought, the adjusters would have to be able raise the strings at least 7mm to resolve my neck buzz issue. Will they do this?

**Matthew Tucker** · #5 08-15-2007, 07:00 AM

Easily. The adjuster disk is at least 6mm thick on its own even before winding it up.

And you're right, the card under the bridge will be very compressed, but it's still cardboard, and nowhere near as hard as wood. So it will probably have an effect.

uptonbass · #6 08-23-2007, 09:05 PM

Sounds for sure that your in need of a fingerboard plane and dress. Even the 7mm OR MORE may not help if the board is incorrectly shaped/worn.