The minimum bridge break angle, also known as the breakover angle or break angle, is an important consideration when setting up the string action on a guitar or other stringed instrument with a bridge. It refers to the angle at which the strings pass over the saddle of the bridge before continuing to the tailpiece or anchoring point. The break angle affects several aspects of a stringed instrument’s playability and tone, and the specific minimum angle can vary depending on the type of instrument and personal preferences.
Here are some general guidelines for the minimum bridge break angle:
Acoustic Guitars: For most acoustic guitars, the minimum bridge break angle should be around 2 to 4 degrees. This angle provides enough downward pressure on the saddle to ensure good contact between the strings and the saddle, which is crucial for proper tone production and sustain.
Electric Guitars: Electric guitars, especially those with fixed bridges (e.g., hardtail or tune-o-matic bridges), also typically have a minimum break angle of around 2 to 4 degrees. However, some electric guitars with tremolo systems may have slightly different requirements, as the tension and tuning stability of the tremolo system can be affected by the break angle.
Classical Guitars: Classical guitars with nylon strings often have a shallower break angle, typically around 1 to 2 degrees. This is because nylon strings require less downward pressure on the saddle to produce sound.
Bass Guitars: Bass guitars, both electric and acoustic, usually have a slightly higher break angle, often in the range of 5 to 8 degrees. This additional angle helps maintain proper string tension and sustain, especially for the thicker bass strings.
It’s essential to strike a balance when setting the bridge break angle. Too shallow of an angle can result in poor string contact with the saddle, leading to decreased sustain and tonal problems. On the other hand, an excessively steep angle can create excessive tension on the strings and affect playability.
When setting up a guitar or other stringed instrument, it’s best to follow manufacturer guidelines or consult a professional luthier or technician, especially if you’re making significant adjustments to the bridge break angle. Proper setup, which includes the bridge break angle, string height (action), and intonation, plays a crucial role in the instrument’s playability and tone.
