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Question about the bridge

Discussion in 'Ask Lynn Seaton' started by philopadaumus, Dec 24, 2014.

  1. Dec 24, 2014 #1
    philopadaumus

    philopadaumus

    Dec 18, 2014
    Very new to the double bass, but I wanted to ask why is it so important to lubricate the groves in the bridge before changing string, and how this affects the playing?
     
  2. Dec 24, 2014 #2
    Lynn Seaton

    Lynn Seaton Gold Supporting Member

    Nov 3, 2006
    Denton, TX
    It is my understanding that lubricating the grooves on the bridge helps them slide smoothly. Without it, there is a strong possibility that the strings will pull the bridge towards the fingerboard. This can potentially cause the bridge to warp over time, not be seated against the top properly, or even collapse (fall over).
     
  3. Dec 24, 2014 #3
    Mr Ralph

    Mr Ralph Supporting Member

    Jul 12, 2014
    Hinckley Ohio
    I do the nut as well.
     
  4. Dec 24, 2014 #4
    Lynn Seaton

    Lynn Seaton Gold Supporting Member

    Nov 3, 2006
    Denton, TX
    Yes, lubricating the nut near the pegboard is also advisable!
     
  5. Dec 26, 2014 #5
    philopadaumus

    philopadaumus

    Dec 18, 2014
    Oh thanks for that. but does it also somehow affect playability?
     
  6. Dec 26, 2014 #6
    Lynn Seaton

    Lynn Seaton Gold Supporting Member

    Nov 3, 2006
    Denton, TX
    I am not aware of any playability issues. Graphite has been used for as long as I remember on the string grooves.