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Thread: Which bridge should I get?

  1. #1
    Registered User Charlie Bernstein's Avatar
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    Default Which bridge should I get?

    Hello, mando whisperers!

    As I mentioned in my last post, I just bought a '34 Gibson A Junior. It needs a bridge.

    It's a player, not a collectible, so it's sound and playability that matter, not period-correctness.

    I've looked at Stew Mac and Cumberland Acoustic bridges, and I'm sure there are others. Used would be fine, too, but I don't see any in the classifieds here.

    What do you suggest?

    Thanks!

  2. #2

    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    I would get in touch with Steve at Cumberland and see what he would recommend.

    He'll steer you in the right direction!

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  4. #3

    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    They’re not adjustable but I’ve been having really interesting results putting Red Murphy’s 11 hole solid bridges on some of my instruments. Really changes the tone. You’ll have to make one, I don’t think he sells them. Once you figure out the action with an adjustable bridge, might be worth a look over at murphymethod.com

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  6. #4
    Registered User crooksj's Avatar
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    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    Bill James bridges can be found at axinc.net. Equivalent to CA bridges IMHO. Shipping is rather steep for one bridge...

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  8. #5
    Orrig Onion HonketyHank's Avatar
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    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    I do like the newer style ("traditional") Brekke bridge for its adjustability under full string tension. I have old man's hearing, but to me, it sounds great.
    New to mando? Click this link -->Newbies to join us at the Newbies Social Group.

    Just send an email to rob.meldrum@gmail.com with "mandolin setup" in the subject line and he will email you a copy of his ebook for free (free to all mandolincafe members).

    My website and blog: honketyhank.com

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  10. #6

    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    Hey Charlie,

    I'm not sure how big of a difference you'll hear on your old Gibson. On my new builds (F hole A models) Cumberland bridges made an impressive difference over the $20 cheapies, and even sounded notable better than another maker who stamps "patented" in the side of his replicas. Of course, even the best bridge is going to sound thin if it's not mated well to the top. It's a fairly lengthy process requiring steady hands and patience. When you're done with the refinish and set-up, please post a picture. Good on you for bringing new life to that old gal!

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  12. #7
    Mandolin user MontanaMatt's Avatar
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    Default Re: Which bridge should I get?

    I'm with Hank, the brekke traditional is a great bridge.
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