What guitar models is the Bigsby B16G designed for?

The B16G is specifically designed for Telecaster-style electric guitars. Its unique plate shape and mounting configuration are built to fit the dimensions and pickup placement of this specific body type.

What is the purpose of the included neck shim?

The 3/16" neck shim is used to tilt the neck backward. This is necessary because the B16G vibrato and Sorkin bridge sit higher than a standard Telecaster bridge, and the angle ensures a playable string action.

What type of bridge comes with the B16G?

The unit comes with an aluminium floating Sorkin bridge. This bridge rests on the vibrato plate and is designed to work in tandem with the vibrato's movement.

Does the B16G require professional installation?

While all mounting hardware is included for a straightforward installation, the process involves shimming the neck and drilling mounting holes. Players unfamiliar with guitar tech work may prefer professional assistance for the best alignment.

How does the B16G ensure tuning stability?

The unit utilizes precision needle bearings in its construction. These bearings allow for a friction-free rotation of the string bar, which helps the strings return to their original pitch accurately after use.

What finish is applied to the Bigsby B16G?

The B16G features a gold finish. This provides a distinctive, premium aesthetic compared to the standard polished aluminium or chrome versions of Bigsby tailpieces.

What kind of vibrato effect does the B16G produce?

It is designed for smooth and subtle pitch modulation. It is best suited for expressive bends and light vibrato rather than the extreme pitch drops associated with modern locking tremolo systems.

Is the bridge plate separate from the vibrato unit?

No, the B16G features an integrated design where the tailpiece and the bridge mounting area are part of one large, continuous gold-finished plate.

Does the B16G package include mounting screws?

Yes, all necessary mounting hardware is included in the kit to facilitate the installation of the tailpiece onto the guitar body.

Will the B16G fit on a Stratocaster?

No, the B16G is specifically shaped for the Telecaster body and pickup layout. It would not be compatible with the bridge or body routing of a Stratocaster.

What material is the Sorkin bridge made from?

The floating Sorkin bridge included with the B16G is made from aluminium. This material is chosen for its resonance and lightweight properties.

How much does the Bigsby B16G typically cost?

The typical retail price for this gold-finished vibrato system is approximately £299. This price usually includes the bridge, shim, and mounting hardware.

Gear article

Bigsby B16G Vibrato Tailpiece Gold

The Bigsby B16G is a gold-finished vibrato system designed specifically for the Fender Telecaster, featuring an integrated bridge plate and tailpiece assembly. It provides smooth, subtle pitch modulation through a spring-tensioned arm and includes a Sorkin bridge and neck shim for proper installation.

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Overview

The Bigsby B16G Vibrato Tailpiece is a specialist hardware component designed for installation on Telecaster-style guitars. Distinguished by its gold finish and expansive plate design, it replaces the standard fixed bridge of a Telecaster with a vibrato system that covers a significant portion of the guitar's body. The kit includes the primary vibrato unit, an aluminium floating Sorkin bridge, and a 3/16" neck shim, providing the necessary components for a comprehensive setup.

Design and Functionality

Unlike universal Bigsby models, the B16G features an integrated design where the vibrato unit and bridge mounting area are part of the same cast plate. It operates using precision needle bearings which ensure that the unit returns to the correct pitch after the arm is released. The system relies on a heavy-duty spring to balance string tension, allowing the player to depress the arm for downward pitch shifts or lift it slightly for subtle upward modulation.

The inclusion of a 3/16" neck shim is a critical design feature. Because the B16G sits higher than a standard Telecaster bridge plate, the neck must be angled back to achieve a functional action and sufficient break angle over the bridge.

Sound and Performance

The B16G is engineered for 'smooth pitch modulation,' leaning towards the subtle and expressive vibrato characteristic of classic country, rockabilly, and jazz styles. Its cast aluminium construction and floating Sorkin bridge contribute to a resonant, metallic tonal character that differs from the 'twang' of a traditional steel Telecaster bridge plate. The needle bearings are a key mechanical feature, intended to provide a friction-free motion for consistent tuning stability.

Installation and Compatibility

This model is specifically tailored for Telecaster guitars. Installation is more involved than standard tailpieces due to the requirement of the neck shim to adjust the neck angle. All mounting hardware is included in the package. Because the B16G covers the bridge pickup area, it is designed to accommodate standard Telecaster bridge pickups within its integrated frame, maintaining the guitar's aesthetic while upgrading its functional capabilities.

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Frequently asked questions

What guitar models is the Bigsby B16G designed for?: The B16G is specifically designed for Telecaster-style electric guitars. Its unique plate shape and mounting configuration are built to fit the dimensions and pickup placement of this specific body type.
What is the purpose of the included neck shim?: The 3/16" neck shim is used to tilt the neck backward. This is necessary because the B16G vibrato and Sorkin bridge sit higher than a standard Telecaster bridge, and the angle ensures a playable string action.
What type of bridge comes with the B16G?: The unit comes with an aluminium floating Sorkin bridge. This bridge rests on the vibrato plate and is designed to work in tandem with the vibrato's movement.
Does the B16G require professional installation?: While all mounting hardware is included for a straightforward installation, the process involves shimming the neck and drilling mounting holes. Players unfamiliar with guitar tech work may prefer professional assistance for the best alignment.
How does the B16G ensure tuning stability?: The unit utilizes precision needle bearings in its construction. These bearings allow for a friction-free rotation of the string bar, which helps the strings return to their original pitch accurately after use.
What finish is applied to the Bigsby B16G?: The B16G features a gold finish. This provides a distinctive, premium aesthetic compared to the standard polished aluminium or chrome versions of Bigsby tailpieces.
What kind of vibrato effect does the B16G produce?: It is designed for smooth and subtle pitch modulation. It is best suited for expressive bends and light vibrato rather than the extreme pitch drops associated with modern locking tremolo systems.
Is the bridge plate separate from the vibrato unit?: No, the B16G features an integrated design where the tailpiece and the bridge mounting area are part of one large, continuous gold-finished plate.
Does the B16G package include mounting screws?: Yes, all necessary mounting hardware is included in the kit to facilitate the installation of the tailpiece onto the guitar body.
Will the B16G fit on a Stratocaster?: No, the B16G is specifically shaped for the Telecaster body and pickup layout. It would not be compatible with the bridge or body routing of a Stratocaster.
What material is the Sorkin bridge made from?: The floating Sorkin bridge included with the B16G is made from aluminium. This material is chosen for its resonance and lightweight properties.
How much does the Bigsby B16G typically cost?: The typical retail price for this gold-finished vibrato system is approximately £299. This price usually includes the bridge, shim, and mounting hardware.