bridge material ?

noel watson · #1 12-31-2006, 01:32 AM

I am new to the forum, so please excuse me if this has been dealt with already. Couldn't find an answer in the search.

I am converting one of my 4 strings to 5 string and due to the narrow spacing this will give I can't find a suitable bridge to do the job and will probably just make one.
This leads me to what material to use. I see every type of metal from zinc to steel to brass to aluminium etc.... being used. What are the differences in sound?
I made a stainless steel bridge with brass saddles for one bass which worked well, but I would like some advice from those who have tried different metals.
What is the favourite for getting that low B sound out.

rbrown13 · #2 12-31-2006, 01:41 AM

brass would be my first choice, Its's easy to mill and has good density.

Greenman · #3 12-31-2006, 01:42 AM

Wow! I know how hard it is to work with stainless. I would build one out of material you are comfortable with. Also I heard pros and cons about light verses heavy (Aluminum verses Brass) and they are various opinions. Myself I have plans on fabbing my own alum. bridge with brass saddles.

pilotjones · #4 12-31-2006, 02:51 PM

The opinions on the sounds of different metals are out there. Also the design of the bridge, its shape, thickness, etc., may have as much influence as the material chosen.

Hipshot sells a 4-to-5 bridge, ready-made.

tjclem · #5 12-31-2006, 05:29 PM

String through body and a chunk of Ebony for the bridge.

noel watson · #6 12-31-2006, 05:51 PM

I have looked at the Hipshot website, but can't see any reference to the 4-5 string conversion bridge.
I know Wilkinson used to make one, but can't find any reference to that either. May not make it anymore.
Can anyone give me some links to sites which discuss materials. If I am going to make a bridge I do not want to spend a lot of time making one out of material which doesn't give the desired sound. A ready made bridge would obviously be simpler if there is one which will give the desired result.
My stainless bridge with chromed brass saddles is fitted to my 760mm (30") scale bass and works well. It gave the bass more sustain which helps the short scale to ring like a full scale, but has also given it more midrange focus which may not be ideal for a strong B string sound on an 860mm (33.86") 5 string. The bass I am converting is my old BB800 Yamaha fitted with an EMG which is a great bass.
Thanks for the helpful replies.

noel watson · #7 12-31-2006, 05:57 PM

To tjclem,
That sounds interesting. Can you elaborate on the design?
Base, saddles etc... ?
How about intonation and height adjustment.
What sort of tone would you expect from this material on a solid body bass?

tjclem · #8 12-31-2006, 06:13 PM

Looking closer at what you want this is not the best choice. It will give you a more mellow sound than I think you are looking for.........t

Nomad98 · #9 12-31-2006, 06:38 PM

If you're looking for a fender style conversion bridge 4-5 string, you can find one here:

http://www.grguitars.com

Click on the bass link and scroll down...

noel watson · #10 12-31-2006, 06:57 PM

Thanks Nomad98,
I will contact them for a decription. Good price.

noel.

manbass · #11 12-31-2006, 10:12 PM

Noel, check StewMac site for Schaller 3 way Roller 5 bridges, which go down to 16mm.

noel watson · #12 01-01-2007, 12:36 AM

Nomad98,

happy birthday

thanks for the link.

manbass · #13 01-01-2007, 09:59 AM

Yea Nomad +1...nice narrow 2-1/4".