The Steel Guitar Forum

When notching a new saddle for a "Dobro" style resonator, should the notches be "v" shaped or should they be the width of the string, with straight sides?

Lee, from South Texas

A trick Tim Scheerhorn passed on is to start the slots with a thin saw or file and then use the wound strings to finish the slots off. I like to cut in a slight "V" on the leading edge (toward the nut) This gives the string some room to move and on the high end opens up the tone. The V should only go in about half the thickness of the saddle.

Lee, when setting a new saddle I use files that are the size of the string used. I use a light pressure on the bridge as this will increase the volume as well as tone response. Just make the grooves deep enough to hold the string without it slipping out. dave

Thanks for the tips, guys.

Lee

v shaped wider towards endpin