Mike's Oud Forums

Fix Bridge Vs. Moveable Bridge

abdulo - 7-12-2006 at 06:50 AM

Hi,

What is the difference between Fix Bridge Vs. Moveable Bridge oud's??

Thanks

Dr. Oud - 7-12-2006 at 01:31 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by abdulo
Hi,

What is the difference between Fix Bridge Vs. Moveable Bridge oud's??

Thanks
There are structural differences because of the different forces on the soundboard (face). The fixed bridge twists the face, and the moveable bridge is in vertical compression. The moveable bridge requires a stronger bracing system and usually a bit thicker face. Consequently, you can replace a moveable bridge with a fixed bridge, but the oud will not have as much volume. If you replace a fixed bridge with a moveable bridge, the face will likely fail (many have).

abdulo - 7-13-2006 at 02:21 AM

Thanks for information, so what will sound better OR what is the different sounding in both methods?

Thanks

Dr. Oud - 7-13-2006 at 09:26 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by abdulo
Thanks for information, so what will sound better OR what is the different sounding in both methods?

Thanks
The two have different characteristics, the fixed bridge usually produces deeper bass tones and longer sustain, while the movable bridge has stronger treble tones with more projection. It depends on your preference which is better.

Jake - 7-15-2006 at 10:59 AM

hello there

I understand that the relationship between the energy of the strings and the soundboard is different also. I read that floating bridge systems emphasize the up and down side to side wavey vibrations of strings and fixed bridge systems will emphasize the expanding/contracting of the length of the strings. Each system will (or so I have read) have access to a very different set of overtones and perform in a different way. Or so I have read.

Jake - 7-15-2006 at 11:18 AM

sorry I had to log out. I'm at the library.Anyway...To me fixed bridges have a more complicated tone and cover a wider area of the sound canvas like a landscape. Floating bridges have a more precise tone and travel through the sound canvas on narrower roads like the veins on a leaf in that same landscape.

Jake - 7-15-2006 at 11:21 AM

oops........

depends on the instrument, the player, though I think. But still degrees in a range on a scale.