How to Set up the Bridge on an Upright Bass for Maximum Volume

A properly set bass bridge will improve tone and volume.

The upright bass typically has four strings held taught by tuning pegs and a bridge. The strings can be bowed or plucked to produce sounds, and pressing along the fretboard changes pitch. The brightness of the upright bass is very important. When a bass bridge is properly set up, the tone quality and volume of the instrument will be at their best. While the bridge most noticeably controls tone, volume is also affected directly by tone quality.

Instructions

1. Align the bridge on the instrument. The bridge should be positioned between the two f-holes in the center. The bridge must be as straight as possible, both vertically and horizontally.

2. Bow the bass. The main goal is to remove any string buzzing from the instrument. If the bridge is set too high, the instrument will be harder to play. A bridge that is too low will cause string buzz. When an ideal position is found, stop adjusting the bridge.

3. Tune the bass. This will affect the string tension and may cause intonation issues or reveal a slight buzz in the strings. If the bridge is set properly, the bass will play in tune easily without any buzzing. Once the bass is tuned, readjust as needed.

References

• Dennis Havlena - How To Set Up An Upright Bass
• Great Music Products Online - Upright Bass Setup