What’s the Best Type of Bridge for My Guitar?
So you want to upgrade your guitar, or maybe buy a new one? Whatever your reason, you’re probably wondering what kind of bridge would work best for your style of playing. This can be a bit overwhelming, as there are many types of bridges out there. In this article, we’ll go through some of the most popular types of guitar bridges and help you find the one that suits your needs. Let’s get started!
Fixed Bridge
The first type of bridge we’ll look at is the fixed bridge. As the name suggests, this type of bridge is mounted firmly to the guitar’s body, which means that the bridge position cannot be changed. This type of bridge is typically found on single-cutaway guitars such as Les Pauls or SGs. Since it doesn’t have any moving parts, the fixed bridge provides better sustain than other types of bridges. However, it also means that the intonation can’t be adjusted easily if the guitar gets out of tune.
Tremolo Bridge
The next type of bridge is the tremolo bridge. This type of bridge has a mechanism that allows the player to change the pitch of the strings by moving the bridge up and down. This is achieved via two pivots and springs that connect the bridge to the guitar’s body. There are two types of tremolo bridges, the Floyd Rose and the vintage-style tremolo.
The Floyd Rose tremolo is a modern invention and is known for its ability to keep the guitar in tune even after aggressive tremolo use. This is due to the locking nut on the headstock that keeps the strings anchored in place. The Floyd Rose tremolo can be a bit complicated to use, and the process of changing strings can be time-consuming. However, if you’re looking for a bridge that can handle all kinds of whammy bar abuse, this might be the right choice for you.
The vintage-style tremolo, on the other hand, is a more classic design that is found on guitars like Fender Stratocasters. This type of tremolo is known for its smooth and subtle pitch changes, making it a great choice for playing clean tones. However, if you get too aggressive with the tremolo bar, you might end up with a guitar that’s out of tune.
Bridge with Piezo Pickup
Another type of bridge that has gained popularity in recent years is the bridge with a piezo pickup. This type of bridge has a built-in pickup that captures the sound of the strings’ vibrations and converts them into an electrical signal. The signal is then routed to an external preamp or amplifier, just like a regular electric guitar.
The piezo pickup is known for its ability to capture the natural acoustic sound of the guitar, making it a popular choice for players who want to amplify their acoustic guitar sound without losing its natural characteristics. However, it’s worth noting that the sound produced by the piezo pickup can be a bit sterile compared to a regular magnetic pickup.
Wrap-Around Bridge
The wrap-around bridge is a simple design that provides good sustain and stability. It’s typically found on older Gibson guitars, but some newer models have revived the design. The wrap-around bridge is essentially a bar of metal that goes through the guitar’s body and is screwed into place. The strings wrap around the bar, and the bridge is adjusted by loosening or tightening the screws on either side.
The wrap-around bridge is known for its ease of use and its ability to provide excellent sustain. Since it doesn’t have any moving parts, it’s less prone to breakage or wear and tear. However, it also means that you won’t be able to adjust the intonation easily if it gets out of tune.
Conclusion
So there you have it, some of the most popular types of guitar bridges. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style. If you’re a beginner, consider a fixed bridge to make tuning and intonation adjustments more straightforward. If you’re looking to expand your playing style, consider a tremolo bridge or a bridge with a piezo pickup.
Remember, the bridge is an integral part of the guitar, and finding the right one can make a big difference in how your guitar sounds and plays. So take your time, do your research, and choose the type of bridge that best fits your needs. Happy playing!
Image Credit: Pexels