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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/409657
dpgetman - Posted - 07/29/2026: 11:53:22
Hey all,
I have a low-jo (six-string, but set up like a 5-string with extra bass string) project that requires a new bridge. I assume that a standard 5-string bridge will work, but I'd need to pick up one that has not been slotted yet.
I'd be interested in any Low-Jo players advice on bridges and any info on who is offering unslotted bridges.
Thanks!
David
trapdoor2 - Posted - 07/29/2026: 14:56:10
quote:
Originally posted by dpgetmanHey all,
I have a low-jo (six-string, but set up like a 5-string with extra bass string) project that requires a new bridge. I assume that a standard 5-string bridge will work, but I'd need to pick up one that has not been slotted yet.
I'd be interested in any Low-Jo players advice on bridges and any info on who is offering unslotted bridges.
Mine has a standard 5/8" tall bridge (with an unused compensation notch) but it is just a tad wider @ 2-5/8" across the ebony cap (my others tend to be 2-1/2" wide). It is otherwise unmarked. Goldtone lists an unslotted 5/8" bridge as p/n 5-58UN on their website.
If you can't get one from Goldtone, I would probably buy an 11/16" slotted bridge and simply sand off the existing slots, bringing it to 5/8" tall.
I struggled to get my OT-6 to sound "right". I have sponges under the head at both ends (heel and tailpiece) in an attempt to dampen the overtones. Still, it sounded a lot like a trash-can...until I started tuning it to gGCGCD/aADADE. Suddenly, it sounded great! I installed a 5th string spike last year and have been playing it local jams. It is very loud, so I get to play softer than normal...which is nice.
mikehalloran - Posted - 07/30/2026: 12:55:04
I order 11/16" bridges and reduce the height. Fastest way I know to get a 5/8" unslotted bridge, something I use a lot around here.
dpgetman - Posted - 07/30/2026: 13:19:55
Thanks folks, I have made a couple of bridges in the past, but I'm wanting to expedite this task. I picked up a 5/8 unslotted from the Gold Tone website for a few bucks (thanks @trapdoor2) and will see how that goes. I am afraid it might not be long enough or thinner than I'd like for this project or too high, but we will see. If it doesn't work out then I'll bite the bullet and whip one up.
Thanks all!
David
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