Maple Bridges

[mmukav]

Has anyone used a maple bridge on their mando? I see there are several makers who offer them. Much difference between maple and ebony? Just curious......

The makers of these bridges claim they add sustain and volume. Is maple that much more dense then ebony?

[wdrysd]

This is a much debated subject. Only your ears can tell you if you prefer the change.

Having said that, I replaced the loar repro bridges on a good F hole and a good oval hole mandolin with maple bridges. #I found both were louder, and sustained longer. # Also two or more notes played at the same time are each clearer. #This is just two mandolins however and others might not change as much. (Also too much sustain is not desirable for some types of music)

The top quality adjustable bridges that were replaced were set up by pros and will remain in the case for when they are needed. #The trade off with the one piece bridge is no adjustment to the action without making the bridge lower - permanently.

Your bridge, and one piece maple bridges in particular, are a good place to start in changing the sound of your mandolin. #The rest of the mandolin is unaltered. #If you are happy with what your have now or don't like to experiment, by all means don't bother. Again, your ears are the best judge of the results.

Regarding hardness - Some maple is softer and some is harder than a given piece of ebony. #The type of maple, how it is sawn and the design of the bridge all affect the results. Google Red Henry's Bridge page or search cafe archives for additional data.

W Drysdale

[mmukav]

Thanks! Red Henry's page was the one that I looked at initially. I'm thinking of replacing the rosewood bridge on my bouzouki and was considering maple.

[mandough]

I made a one-piece maple bridge with an ivory top sliver. Red Henry's page got me thinking too and my Pacrim mando needed some help.
The maple bridge added some volume (you could really feel the air chamber working when the mando is close to the body).
Single notes sounded good with a litte more crispness and punch. Strummed chords didn't sound as good though and was a little harsh. Better for this mandolin than the Rosewood adjustable bridge that it came with.

[Damnation Gulch]

Good to know... I'm thinking about this as well.