Peter Coombe Article

A new Mandolin Bridge: Peter Coombe, Web Article

 In recent years Vern Brekke from the Sound to Earth company (STE) developed and patented a new bridge that was designed to overcome many of the short comings of the Loar type of bridge. This bridge has gained some acceptance amongst some players and makers. 

However, the Brekke bridge is somewhat controversial, with many people preferring the sound of the Loar bridge, others preferring the sound of the Brekke. Personally I prefer the sound of the Brekke bridge, and use it on my own mandolins. The Brekke bridge is specifically designed so it does not tip foreword, and the saddle does not bow or break, which some Loar type bridges have a tendency to do. It only has Ebony/Ebony/soundboard contact, unlike the Loar type of bridge which has Ebony/brass/Ebony/soundboard contact. It is adjusted by two small allen bolts from the side. To my ears it has a smoother, warmer tonal quality over that of the Loar type bridge.

 In future all my mandolins will be delivered with the modified Brekke bridge.