The Best Guitar Bridges: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to guitar parts, the bridge is one of the most important and versatile pieces. Not only does a good bridge provide the perfect tone and intonation, but it also anchors the strings in place and practically helps to shape the different sounds emanating from the instrument.
So, whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade, an experienced guitarist looking to switch things up, or an expert seeking the perfect tonal balance; selecting the best guitar bridge for your needs is essential. Let’s explore the options!
Types of Guitar Bridges
In broad strokes, there are four main types of guitar bridges: fixed bridges, tremolo bridges, floating bridges, and hybrid bridges. Let’s take a look at each one in more detail.
Fixed Bridges
A fixed bridge, or a hardtail bridge, is the least complicated option, as there are no movable parts. These bridges were often used prior to the invention of tremolo systems, and are straightforward and easy to use. The strings are threaded through the tailpiece, and the trem arms are either locking or non-locking; these variables control the tension and intonation. Fixed bridges are popular on Stratocaster and Telecaster-style guitars and are ideal for styles such as blues, classic rock, and country.
Tremolo Bridges
Tremolo bridges, popularly known as ‘whammy bars,’ enable musicians to make their instrument sound different by using the arms at the end of the bridge. With tremolo bridges, the strings are suspended above a tremolo block, which is connected to a system of arms that can be adjusted using the tremolo arms. By pushing down and releasing the arms, players are able to change the pitch and introduce some serious wah-wah.
Tremola bridges are seen on guitars such as Fender Strats and Ibanez RG models, and are a must-have for styles such as hard rock, progressive metal, and funk.
Floating Bridges
As their name suggests, floating bridges are literally floating above the body of the guitar, attached to the body with studs or posts. Floating bridges enable guitarists to adjust tension on the strings to make them sit lower for a brighter sound, or higher for a thicker tone.
These bridges are sometimes accompanied by a tailpiece with a row of anchoring studs – due to their design, they are often found on semi-hollow-body instruments and archtop guitars. Jazz, blues, and a variety of vintage musical styles are what floating bridges were essentially made for.
Hybrid Bridges
Finally, there are hybrid bridges, which combine the best of both worlds — the stability of fixed bridges and the versatility of tremolo bridges. Usually, hybrid bridges comprise of saddles attached to a rigid metal plate, allowing the players to dial in some pitch variation, and making them a good option if you’re looking to play a variety of styles.
The Best Fixed Bridges: An Overview
Having established the different types of guitar bridges, let’s take a closer look at the best fixed bridges for electric guitarists, covering the best value models, high-end options and everything in between.
Best for Value: Hipshot Hardtail Xtender
Designed for guitars such as the Fender Stratocaster, Telecaster or other single-cut guitars, the Hipshot Hardtail Xtender boasts a simple string-through design and a tonal balance that’s hard to beat at this price range. It also features a sturdy construction, stylish design and a great tuning stability.
Best for Quality: Fender® American Vintage Stratocaster
Fender’s American Vintage Strat incluees the classic American Vintage Strat Bridge. From the synthetic-bone nut to the stamped steel bridge saddles, the American Vintage Stratocaster is a classic bridge and an absolute workhorse. It’s sturdier and more precise than many of its competitors, with a tone that’s sure to please even the most demanding players.
Best in Show: Gotoh® 510TS-FE1
The Gotoh 510TS-FE1 bridge is arguably the most beautiful bridge out there, with a sleek black finish, fine stainless steel saddles, and superb precision. It sports a single bridge piece, which offers more stability and intonation accuracy than some of its competitors, and its classic tone shapes the midrange, helping warm up any guitar. Of course, it doesn’t come cheap but, boy, is it good!
The Best Tremolo Bridges: Rundown
Now, let’s move onto the best tremolo bridges for electric guitars – from the affordable to the high-end, these are our picks for the best tremolo bridges out there.
Best for Value: Floyd Rose Special Double-Locking Tremolo Bridge
The Floyd Rose Special Double-Locking Tremolo Bridge may be a bit pricy for some folks, but it packs a serious punch for the price. It comes with a period-correct locking nut, has got deep routing, and is one of the most balanced-sounding tremolo bridges we’ve ever tried. It’s great for classic rock, hard rock, and metal.
Best for Quality: Edge Pro II Bridge by Ibanez
A real workhorse, the Edge Pro II Bridge by Ibanez serves up plenty of tone and wide range of tuning possibilities. It boasts a low-profile design, a locking arm, and a wide range of sounds thanks to its double-locking system. It’s a great choice for modern jazz, funk, and hard rock.
Best in Show: Kahler’s Pro-Series Tremolo with Pro-Cam Technology
Kahler’s Pro-Series Tremolo with Pro-Cam Technology is, hands down, the best tremolo bridge out there. It features two separate adjustable spring tension rods, and is precision-machined for more even string heights and improved action. It’s also equipped with a self-lubricating pivot point, which needs minimum maintenance and provides smooth up/down tremolo performances.
Conclusion: Getting the Best Guitar Bridge For Your Needs
Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, selecting the perfect guitar bridge to fit your needs is essential. From fixed bridges to tremolo bridges, there are a variety of options available to suit different styles, budgets and instruments.
Hopefully, this introductory guide was enough to give you a better understanding of the different types of guitar bridges and what to look for when picking the perfect one. All that’s left to do now is for you to set off on your quest for the perfect tone and intonation – good luck!
So, what’s your guitar bridge of choice? Let us know in the comments!