Violin Forum/Message Board

[jethro]

Hello all---- I have been away from making for 5 or 6 years. I have moved to a new state (TN) and I would like to resume the process of making and learning. When I last left off---- I was trying to figure out tap tones , general setup and the "hidden" secrets of cutting a bridge for optimal sound control.

I sold my first instrument--- and my 2-nd one has been done for several years.
I want to re-bridge it as I dont think I ever got the bridge correct. I found more info on bridge adjustment on the web- so I thought I would order some inexpensive bridge blanks and attempt some of the suggestions for optimal cutting. I have noticed that there are 3 or 4 bridge brands and prices range from about 3 $ to over 20$ for bridge blanks. Some have the ebony e string insert---
If I am going to kind of experiment with them---- are the cheapest one just fine for that purpose ? ( on the idea that at the skill point I am at-- the cut may be more important than the wood being top quality--- ) maybe I should cut cheap ones first --- get literate cutting cheap ones before I ruin a 15 or 25 $ one.........

Is there much difference between the french or german style ? I cant see a lot of difference in the geometry.....

Thanks for any and every tip on this question......

Tim B.

[Michael Darnton]

Cheap bridges are fine for practice. Don't get ones with the ebony insert. After some practice, spend more. Most violin bridges are on similar models. I personally don't like the ones with a high round arch between the feet. . . I would rather have a lot of wood to start. If they cut it off you can't put it back.
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