Gear article

Gear4Music Guitarworks 5-String Bass Guitar Bridge

The Gear4Music Guitarworks 5-String Bass Guitar Bridge is a chrome-finished hardtail component designed for five-string electric bass guitars. It features a traditional five-saddle configuration with a fixed 64mm string spacing, providing a standard replacement or upgrade option for a variety of bass models.

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Overview

The Guitarworks 5-String Bass Guitar Bridge is a functional hardware component manufactured by Gear4Music. It serves as the primary anchor point for strings on the body of a five-string bass guitar. Constructed with a chrome finish, the bridge adheres to a standard hardtail design, prioritising tuning stability and ease of adjustment for the player.

Design and Specifications

This bridge is defined by its specific dimensions and layout to ensure compatibility with standard bass body routs.

  • Footprint: The base plate measures 42.5mm in depth and 89mm in width.
  • String Spacing: It utilizes a traditional 64mm spacing, which is the total distance measured across the five saddles.
  • Saddles: Five individual saddles allow for independent intonation and height adjustments for each string.

Installation and Compatibility

While developed by Gear4Music, this bridge is marketed as being suitable for a variety of other bass guitar models beyond the brand's own range. As a hardtail bridge, it requires a flat surface for mounting. Luthier or DIY installation typically involves securing the base plate to the guitar body via screws, though users should verify that their instrument's existing mounting holes align with the 42.5mm x 89mm footprint.

Comparison to Market Alternatives

Positioned at a highly accessible price point of approximately £9, this bridge is intended for budget-conscious repairs and entry-level custom builds. While other specialized string components, such as Larsen Cello D strings or D'Addario Zyex violin strings, cater to orchestral instruments, the Guitarworks bridge is a hardware-specific solution for electric bass maintenance. It offers a standardized alternative to more expensive boutique high-mass bridges, focusing on utility and a traditional aesthetic.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the total width of this bridge?
The bridge measures 89mm in width. This measurement reflects the widest part of the base plate that sits against the guitar body.
What is the depth of the bridge plate?
The bridge has a depth of 42.5mm. Users should ensure their bass guitar has sufficient flat surface area to accommodate this footprint.
What is the string spacing for this model?
This bridge features a traditional 64mm string spacing. This is the total distance measured from the centre of the first saddle to the centre of the fifth saddle.
Is this bridge suitable for a 4-string bass?
No, this specific model is designed for 5-string bass guitars. It contains five individual saddles to support five strings.
What finish does the bridge have?
The bridge is finished in polished chrome. This provides a classic metallic look that matches common guitar hardware like tuners and control knobs.
Is this a top-loading or string-through bridge?
Based on the manufacturer description of a hardtail design, it typically functions as a top-loading bridge where strings are anchored at the back of the bridge plate.
Can the individual saddles be adjusted?
Yes, the five-saddle design allows for independent adjustment. Players can typically adjust each string's height for action and move the saddle forward or backward for intonation.
Will this bridge fit any 5-string bass?
It is designed to be compatible with a variety of models. However, you must check the 42.5mm x 89mm dimensions against your specific instrument to ensure a proper fit.
What is the typical price for this component?
The bridge is generally priced around £9. This makes it an affordable option for budget repairs or basic instrument building.
Does the bridge come with mounting screws?
Standard retail packages for Guitarworks bridges usually include the necessary hardware, but you should verify this with the specific retailer at the time of purchase.
Is this a high-mass bridge?
The manufacturer describes this as a traditional hardtail bridge rather than a high-mass design. It is focused on standard replacement needs and traditional aesthetics.
Can this bridge be used for left-handed basses?
Because the saddles are individually adjustable and the plate is rectangular, it can generally be used on both right-handed and left-handed instruments as long as the intonation is set accordingly.