- When setting up a banjo, the bridge must be inspected for any cracks, hairline fractures or missing parts. The bridge is the most critical element in transferring the string's vibrations into the body. Any cracks or breaks in the bridge will absorb the string's vibrations and dull the sound. Most banjo bridges are made of maple wood, and in some cases are carved by hand. Small cracks can be glued for repair.
- The location of the bridge is critical in achieving the banjo's overall sound. Banjo bridges are not actually connected to the body's head, but are rather held in place by the tension of the strings pressing down toward the head. Bridges must be constantly checked for proper location, because any moves forward or backward from the fretboard will change the instrument's intonation, causing the banjo to play out of tune. Most modern banjos require a distance of 13 3/16 inches from the 12th fret, and for the bridge to be parallel to the frets.
- Many banjo bridges are made of one piece of wood, allowing the strings to rest in small notches in the wood itself. Others may feature bridge tops, which are other materials cut to sit on the top of the bridge. These tops can be made of ebony or rosewood, and offer different tonal qualities. Ebony is known to increase sustain and brightness, while rosewood can add a well-rounded warm sound.
- Traditional banjo bridges are delicate and small, using a narrow footprint on the banjo head itself. As these bridges are held in place solely by the instrument''s string pressure, they can occasionally tip over when the banjo is being played. Some modern bridges feature a small plastic foot that extends from the bridge perpendicularly, keeping the bridge upright. These "non-tip" feet must be firmly placed on the banjo head and checked regularly for damage to avoid a ratting sound at the bridge.
Bridge Condition
Bridge Location
Bridge Tops
Non-Tip Bridges
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