Why not this kind of bridge?

[deadedith]

Is there a reason in principle why this kind of bridge would not work well on a 'flat-top' guitar? I mean, other than having to use a tailpiece to anchor it? I have seen these with bone nuts as well.
Dave B

[tippie53]

this is used on an archtop . the bracing so different. In a flatop you are using the bridge as the main transfer of energy . You would have to brace the top differently to use a tailpiece and floating bridge. If they were good on a flat top they would be used more.

[deadedith]

Interesting. I'm going read up on this.
Thanks
Dave

[kencierp]

The Selmer Gypsy Jazz guitars are flat tops (sorta) and use an adjustable bridge that is similar. I have the prints for the Selmers (never built one) -- there is a ladder brace that runs under the bridge location. Most interest however, is the sound-board and rim design --- at the ladder brace edge the top actually has a very slight "fold" -- half dergee or so. I am sure it adds resistance to the downward pressure of the strings and perhaps restrains the top a bit for a more crisp sound?

[tippie53]

The Selmers have a following and are a unique instrument. The bracing is designed for such a bridge . Often these are also called jazz or gypsy guitars. The ones I have played have a haunting sound , and very different from the Martin and Gibson boxes. Get Kens plans and make one , the Macaferri is one of the most popular.

[Tom West]

The bridge on a flat top is also a brace. These type bridges do not act structurally the way regular flat top bridges do.
Tom

[deadedith]

Hey Nick - if you would post a pic or three I think we all would enjoy seeing them. I am going to work a gypsy guitar into the lineup as soon as I can.

[Darryl Young]

Yes Nick, post a pic of the bracing if you don't mind.

[tippie53]

the arch top bridge is much like a mando . The bracing schemes of these instruments are more like violins. As will it work on a flat top steel string , only if you brace it accordingly. Don't expect it to sound very well, it will be more hollow in tone.
As stated above , the bridge is part of the bracing structure and transfers the string energy to the top. They work on an arch top as they are designed for that in the way the top is shaped and braced.