A Tune-O-Matic bridge is a type of fixed bridge commonly used on electric guitars. It was introduced by Gibson in the late 1950s and has since become a popular choice for many guitar manufacturers. The Tune-O-Matic bridge consists of several components that work together to provide stability, intonation adjustment, and string height adjustment. Here's an overview of how a Tune-O-Matic bridge works:
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Base Plate:
- The bridge is anchored to the guitar body via a metal base plate. This plate is usually secured to the guitar's top or body using screws.
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Bridge Posts:
- The Tune-O-Matic bridge has two adjustable posts that are screwed into the guitar body. These posts serve as the main support for the bridge and allow for height adjustment.
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Thumbwheels or Allen Screws:
- At the top of each bridge post, there are thumbwheels or Allen screws that can be turned to raise or lower the height of the bridge. This allows players to adjust the action or string height to their preference.
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Bridge Assembly:
- The bridge assembly itself consists of two main parts—the bridge itself and the stop bar tailpiece. The bridge is where the strings rest, and the stop bar is where the strings are anchored.
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Saddles:
- The bridge features individual saddles for each string. These saddles can be adjusted horizontally to set the intonation for each string. Intonation adjustment ensures that the pitch of each string is accurate throughout the fretboard.
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String Slots:
- Each saddle has a slot for the strings to pass through. The slots are usually designed to allow the strings to sit securely in place, maintaining proper spacing.
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String Anchoring:
- The strings pass over the saddles and are then threaded through the stop bar tailpiece. The stop bar is anchored to the guitar body and provides a point for the strings to be secured.
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Tuning:
- The other end of the strings is wound around the guitar's tuning pegs on the headstock. By turning the tuning pegs, the player can adjust the tension in the strings, thereby tuning the guitar.
In summary, the Tune-O-Matic bridge is a versatile design that allows for individual string height and intonation adjustments. It provides stability and contributes to the overall sustain and tone of the guitar. The combination of height-adjustable posts, movable saddles, and the stop bar tailpiece makes it a popular choice among guitarists.