6 string resonator to 7 string resonator conversion

Ronald Lee White · Post by **Ronald Lee White** » 19 Feb 2019 2:01 pm

On a 7 string resonator guitar is it customary to cut a slot in the center span of the bridge so that the bridge will clear the cone screw? Obviously there is a 4th string in the center of the bridge. Any input will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Ron

Howard Parker · Post by **Howard Parker** » 19 Feb 2019 4:11 pm

It is customary to use an offset spider that clears the tension screw and takes a single piece, wider bridge insert.

Assuming you're talking a dobro style, spider bridge guitar.

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Howard Parker · Post by **Howard Parker** » 19 Feb 2019 4:15 pm

CLICK HERE!!

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Ronald Lee White · Post by **Ronald Lee White** » 20 Feb 2019 7:59 am

Thank you Howard. I had no idea that this existed.

Todd Clinesmith · Post by **Todd Clinesmith** » 20 Feb 2019 8:16 am

If you are converting a 6 to 7 string, using an offset spider will change your intonation by changing your bridge location 1/4 inch.

Howard Parker · Post by **Howard Parker** » 20 Feb 2019 8:20 am

Indeed, but you do get used to the new fret positions pretty quickly and after all, the left hand is the ultimate intonator.

At least, that's been my personal experience playing a bunch of conversions.

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Mike Harris · Post by **Mike Harris** » 20 Feb 2019 1:08 pm

So, is 7-string conversion (rather than

advised for some reason(s)?

Howard Parker · Post by **Howard Parker** » 20 Feb 2019 1:30 pm

Mike Harris wrote:So, is 7-string conversion (rather than advised for some reason(s)?

Uh..could you rephrase the question?

Mike Harris · Post by **Mike Harris** » 20 Feb 2019 2:17 pm

Sorry, Howard, I don't know how the emoticon got in there--I typed an "8" with a dash and it looked fine till it showed up on the page here.

The question was, is there a reason for converting to 7 rather than 8 strings. (no dashes, hopefully no smiley faces this time)

thanks!

Howard Parker · Post by **Howard Parker** » 20 Feb 2019 2:19 pm

Maybe string spacing? I don't know what specifics Ronald has in mind.

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Ronald Lee White · Post by **Ronald Lee White** » 21 Feb 2019 7:40 am

Right on Howard. The string spacing under the resonator cover of the 6 string is limited. 8 strings would make string spacing much closer.

L. Bogue Sandberg · Post by **L. Bogue Sandberg** » 21 Feb 2019 4:35 pm

The fourth string still covers the tension screw with the offset spider. I used a small, bent flat bar through the front palm strap opening to do final screw adjustment. Going into the screw slot from the side instead of the top. If the screw was placed prior to the insert, I'll bet you could do similar with an continuous bridge insert on a No. 14 spider, as posed in Ronalds original question.

8's are quieter than 6's all things being equal. The late Mike Auldridge demo'd this nicely in the interview posted recently by Mike Ihde. So some folks look at a 7 as a compromise. I play 8 almost exclusively. We're probably talking a difference of one or two notches on the volume setting. And 8 string clunkers come through just fine!

There's plenty of room for an 8 string with 3/8" spacing under the palm strap so that is not an issue. String overhang on a converted 6 string neck is probably more of a consideration. Having the first string hanging way out there in space really bugs me.