How much difference do bridge pins make?

[MaineGeezer]

Does the choice of bridge pins make an audible difference in the sound of a guitar?

The guy I'm building guitar #3 for decided to try Tusq bridge pins, so I ordered a set. Curiosity got the better of me and I tried them in my guitar, replacing the set of dogwood pins I made when I built the guitar. I was somewhat surprised when I heard (I think) a noticeable difference. I think the guitar sounds brighter and more resonant.

Does anybody else have any experience with Tusq bridge pins that they can report?

[Ben-Had]

That has been my general impression with all the Tusq products. Personally I prefer a mellower sound than they give. If you really want to brighten up the sound try brass pins.

[MaineGeezer]

Yes -- having played the guitar some more, I'm thinking the sound they give may be a bit much. I may go back to the original dogwood pins.

I guess one could also try some less bright strings with Tusq pins and see what that combination sounded like. I've been using GHS Signature Bronze strings (see viewtopic.php?f=70&t=7511 for a report of string testing I did.)
With the Tusq pins, the GHS Vintage Bronze might be a better choice.

[tippie53]

I have some guitars that like plastic and some wood and some bone
I think it is a personal preference like sugar in your coffee.

[Diane Kauffmds]

I heard a big difference when I replaced the plastic pins in the Martin with bone. I prefer the clarity of the bone. I was actually very surprised at the difference that the materials made.