Banjo Bridges by Bart

the importance of proper string slotting

Proper string slotting is important for any stringed instrument and of course, the banjo a certainly belongs in that category. The slots should be the right size and depth for the string gauge to get maximum sound transference from the string to the head and/or tonering. The string should sit in the slot without getting stuck or sinking down too deep below the top of the bridge. Most important, the string should make as much contact with the bridge as possible. I take great pride and satisfaction in making sure that proper slotting is a standard feature of all the various bridges I produce. I don't expect anything less from a quality bridge and neither should you.

These illustrations are based on the 1st, or 5th string of a typical banjo string. The small circle in the middle represents the string, the larger solid and dotted circle represents the string slot. They're actually to scale (but hugely enlarged): based on a 0.010" first string and slot size of 0.016" in diameter (string gauge plus a few "thou," about a 2/3 ratio for this gauge).

For the guitar folks: banjo bridges need deeper string slots in the bridge then what is customary for guitars because the tail pieces are designed quite differently.

In case you missed it - the string slots for all Banjo Bridges by Bart are slotted for each individual string gauge instead of a simple one-fits-them-all slot size for every string.

V groove string slots Strings in V-shaped notches are prone to getting choked off resulting in buzzes and twangs especially when the bridge is angled/slanted. Also, the double sided contact makes it easy for strings, especially wound ones, to get snagged in the notch yanking the bridge out of position while retuning. A no-no but in case of emergency it will work well enough until you can do it properly.
string slots too narrow The string slot here is obviously too narrow for the string and will jump the track as soon as you pick it. As in the one above, this one also is a no-no.
string slots too narrow Eventhough the string fits the slot it is still too narrow and likely to cause the string to buzz or twang. A definite no-no.
string slot too deep The string slot cut so the top of the cutter is flush with the bridge top. The string itself lays on the bottom of the slot, well below the bridge top - this slot is too deep. Sound wise not really a problem but depending on how deep, the effective bridge height is no longer accurate.
string slot too shallow The center of the string's diameter is above the bridge topping - too high and the string will easily jump out of its slot, a no-no for sure.
a proper string slot The string axis below the bridge top: much, much better and quite acceptable but it usually requires a straight line tail piece else the string might pop out of the slot when picked hard.
a perfect string slot This is what I strive for: the top of the string nice and flush with the bridge's top.

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Copyright © 2009 Bart Veerman
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