Slotted or Pins?

[gfxbss]

Hey guys,

I wanted to see what everyone's opinions on acoustic bridges might be.

Anyone have any pro/cons for a standard acoustic bridge(with bridge pins) or a slotted bridge(no bridge pins)?

The reason I am asking is that I inherited an early '80s Ovation Balladeer last week. At some point in its lifetime, the bridge(slotted style) was re-glued, but not properly. I am removing the bridge, but would like to replace it with ebony instead of keeping the current rosewood. The issue is that I am having problems finding a slotted ebony bridge and do not have the tools to make one from a blank. Because of this, I am considering a conversion into a bridge with pins and wanted to see what all of you thought.

Thanks,

Tyler

[sydsbluesky]

I always use pins and I've never had a problem.

[gfxbss]

Yeah, pins are the standard, but i have always found slotted to be easier, but if there is a significant tone difference I can suck it up.

Also, if I would convert to a pin style bridge, I would be looking at having to create a bridge pad. On an Ovation this would be very tough seeing as how they have the fan style bracing system. In fact, even without measuring it, I can say that there would probably be some issues with braces getting in the way of holes that I need to drill if I am going to convert to a pinned bridge.


Thinking through everything, I think I will stick with a slotted style bridge. But, do any of you know where I can find an ebony slotted bridge? I can get Rosewood slotted or ebony pinned, but have not been able to find an ebony slotted. Also, seeing as I don't have the correct tools, a bridge blank would not be the best option.

Thanks guys,

Tyler

[sydsbluesky]

Hrm... yeah, looks like the slotted is the only option.

Wish I could help.



Good luck.

[newey]

I've never seen an ebony slotted acoustic bridge, either. Slotted ones in general are hard to find.

You might consider seeing if you can have one made up for you by a luthier, seeing as you lack the tools. No idea what that would cost, but might be worth getting a quote on it to see.

[gfxbss]

yeah, it looks like I will be making some calls. Hopefully it won't cost me too much. I was surprised to find out the lmi didn't have any slotted pre-made on hand.

thanks,

Tyler

[D2o]

I wonder if - because it is an Ovation - you may be wise to check out the Ovation Fan Club. There could be a bona fide reason to stick with the original layout (I am not hinting at anything - I simply don't know).

D2o

[gfxbss]

D2o,

thanks for the suggestion and link, it has helped a ton!

Tyler

[D2o]

That's great news, Tyler

Please let us know what you end up doing, and how you do it, okay?

D2o