Scalloped saddle

[Darryl Hattenhauer]

Any of you guys try scalloping your acoustic saddles? On the under side of the saddle, you use a round file to put 5 very shallow (1/32 of an inch is enough, and maybe 1/4 of an inch wide) scalloped-out places, one between each string. The theory is that by reducing the amount of the saddle, you concentrate the vibrations and get about 10% more volume and a bit more clarity and definition.

 

[Frosty]

I have never heard of such a thing, and it seems to contradict what I have heard about properly fitting a saddle. From whence comes this theory?

 

[chazmo]

I've never heard of that either. Interesting idea though. As Frosty mentioned, I don't know if that would actually increase or decrease transmitted energy into the bridge.

 

[Darryl Hattenhauer]

I first heard of it from Jack Meany at New Boston Banjo about 20 years ago. Here's what I found with a google search:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe ... tnG=Search

 

[wright1]

I don't know about scalloping as such but the practise of making cuts in the saddle or 'arching' like a viaduct is a well known trick to try and improve the separation and clarity of undersaddle pickups. If anyone has a copy of Stew-Macs Trade Secrets volume one in the volume 9 section there is a picture of four different types of cuts and holes made in saddles to help improve transducer performance. I can't say I have heard of it being used for straight acoustic purposes but I suppose in some cases it may be worth a try although a well fitting saddle should be the best. I have used the cut saddle on a couple of instruments and it does work.

Steve.

 

[cjd-player]

Several years ago, I purchased from Graph-Tech a Tusq saddle that was already scalloped as you describe (actually rectangular notches that were formed into the Tusq when it was molded). It was marketed as being better for under-saddle pickups because it suposedly concentrated the vibrations of each string to the pickup. I installed it and did not detect any difference. I'm much happier with the ivory and bone saddles that I now use.

I don't know if Graph-Tech still sells them.

 

[Darryl Hattenhauer]

I'm much happier with the ... bone ... that I now use./quote] Wish I could say the same.