Hi hope you can help , im learning double bass and bought a used bass on ebay .the trouble is the bridge keeps collapsing when setting up and when tunning ?its in the correct place ,the feet are flush to body of bass and sits well . if anyone got any suggestions or fixes it would be appreciated , thanks guys!
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
Double Bass Collapsing bridge
- Thread starter Dave1471
- Start date
A badly fit bridge and a shiny polyester finish is gonna be a problem. Rosin on the bridge feet may help.
The first problem to look for: When you're tuning up the strings from slack, is the bridge gripping the strings, making it lean toward the neck?
If this is happening, first make sure the string notches in the bridge are wide enough for your strings and they don't have sharp edges on the tailpiece side. If that's all good, apply some graphite to the notches, then tune up slowly and evenly across the strings, rechecking the bridge set frequently, particularly if you have a slick finish on the body. I typically knock the bridge back two or three times when putting on new strings, using the spine of a paperback book like a hammer, between the strings. Use your other hand to keep the bridge feet from drifting. Some people use a little powdered rosin on the feet.
If this is happening, first make sure the string notches in the bridge are wide enough for your strings and they don't have sharp edges on the tailpiece side. If that's all good, apply some graphite to the notches, then tune up slowly and evenly across the strings, rechecking the bridge set frequently, particularly if you have a slick finish on the body. I typically knock the bridge back two or three times when putting on new strings, using the spine of a paperback book like a hammer, between the strings. Use your other hand to keep the bridge feet from drifting. Some people use a little powdered rosin on the feet.
- Aug 1, 2005
- 3,546
- 1,421
- Disclosures
- Private Inventor - Bass Capos
Your bass was almost certainly made in a Chinese furniture factory. If you have no backup to help make it playable, get to reading about setup.
