Can someone explain string spacing adjustment options?

[maddnotez]

I am looking for a bass and came across the Ibanez SR675.

Noticing this spacing option at the bridge really confuses me, how does that even work?

The nut is set where it is set, my brain is forcefully thinking that adjusting the string spacing at the bridge would make things really weird. Would this not create off balance spacing? Would stay the same at the nut and gradually get wider or thinner?

 

[Jeff Scott]

Pics.

 

[Solarmist]

The new SR670/675 & SR870 come with adjustable string spacing, but I don't how many people would actually use it - I certainly wouldn't. I was considering the SR670 myself for a while, but that's an option I don't need. Actually I'd prefer the older B20/25 bridges, and 19mm (16.5mm on 5ers) is perfect for most people. I know some boutique builders use them, but again - not sure how many people would utilize it.

 

[B-Mac]

I am looking for a bass and came across the Ibanez SR675.

Noticing this spacing option at the bridge really confuses me, how does that even work?

The nut is set where it is set, my brain is forcefully thinking that adjusting the string spacing at the bridge would make things really weird. Would this not create off balance spacing? Would stay the same at the nut and gradually get wider or thinner?

?
Not really sure what you mean by 'make things really weird'.

Every bass has strings wider in the playing area than at the nut; at least the 42 that I own.

Having this option allows you to tailor the spacing in the playing area to what you're used to.

Now, it could make the strings closer to the edge of the fretboard where the neck ties into the body which is definitely a concern, but it isn't really that weird.

This definitely helps those who are pick players rather than finger players and vice-versa.