Installing a Bigsby vibrato system on a semi-hollow or electric guitar is a task that can significantly enhance the instrument's expressive capabilities. The Bigsby, known for its smooth, subtle pitch modulation, has been a staple on many classic guitars and continues to be a sought-after component for modern builders and DIY enthusiasts. This guide is based on verified technical instructions from manufacturer documentation, user guides, and installation tips provided by Gibson Memphis and Bigsby itself. It is intended for advanced builders, DIYers, and technicians who are comfortable with precision work and have access to the necessary tools and materials.
Key Components of the Bigsby System
The Bigsby vibrato system is a mechanical device that allows the player to alter the pitch of the strings by adjusting the tension applied to them. Unlike the more aggressive vibrato systems found on Fender Stratocasters or other tremolo bridges, the Bigsby is designed to provide a smoother, more natural vibrato effect. The system consists of several key components:
- Main base plate: This serves as the structural foundation for the entire Bigsby system. It is typically made of metal and is mounted directly onto the guitar body.
- String bar: Strings are wrapped around this bar. As the vibrato arm is moved, the bar rotates, changing the tension on the strings and producing the vibrato effect.
- Roller bar (pressure bar): This secondary bar ensures that the strings return to their original pitch after the vibrato arm is used.
- Spring and hinge mechanism: The spring controls the tension of the vibrato arm, while the hinge allows for smooth, controlled movement.
- Vibrato arm: This is the lever that the player uses to activate the vibrato effect. It is limited in its range of motion by the pivot pin and arm stop.
- Arm stop and pivot pin: These components ensure that the vibrato arm operates within a controlled range and maintains the structural integrity of the system.
The Bigsby is typically installed in conjunction with a bridge, and the positioning of the bridge in relation to the string bar is critical for optimal performance. The ideal distance between the bridge and the string bar is approximately 2.5 inches (6.3 cm), and the string angle from the bridge to the string bar should be between 5 and 10 degrees.
Tools and Materials Required for Installation
Before beginning the installation process, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. These include:
- A ruler or measuring tape
- Masking tape and a pencil for marking
- A drill and appropriate drill bits
- A drill press (recommended for precision)
- A file or abrasive cord for smoothing nut slots (optional)
- Screws and nuts specific to the Bigsby model
- A lubricant for the nut and bridge saddles
- A grounding wire (if necessary)
For semi-hollow and solid-body guitars, the bridge may either sit directly on the body or be mounted using screws that fit into pre-drilled holes. In some cases, especially with kits, the bridge may have posts that fit into existing holes without the need for additional screws.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Positioning the Bridge and Marking the Guitar Body
Begin by installing the bridge on the guitar body. Ensure that it is centered and that the scale length is correct. The scale length refers to the distance from the nut to the bridge and is crucial for maintaining proper intonation. In some cases, such as with the Gibson ES-335 reissue, the bridge might be a stopbar, but it can be replaced with a Bigsby B7 model for a more expressive vibrato system.
Once the bridge is in place, position the Bigsby on the guitar to determine the best location for installation. The distance between the bridge and the string bar should be about 2.5 inches (6.3 cm). Additionally, the Bigsby should be centered along the guitar's centerline, with the hinge aligned accordingly. Use masking tape to mark the position of the Bigsby on the guitar body to ensure accurate drilling.
Pre-Drilling and Mounting the Bigsby
With the Bigsby’s position marked, use a drill press or hand drill to pre-drill the body. This step is essential for ensuring that the screws will be securely anchored and that the wood is not split or damaged during installation.
After pre-drilling the screw holes, carefully align the Bigsby with the holes and secure it using the provided screws. Tighten the screws firmly but avoid over-tightening, as this can cause the wood to split or the metal components to become misaligned.
Adjusting the String Angle and Ensuring Proper Intonation
Once the Bigsby is mounted, check the string angle from the bridge to the string bar. The ideal angle is between 5 and 10 degrees. If the angle is too steep, the strings may not return to pitch properly, and if it is too shallow, the vibrato effect may be less pronounced.
To adjust the angle, you may need to slightly move the Bigsby up or down. This can be done by loosening the screws and repositioning the unit until the desired angle is achieved. After repositioning, retighten the screws and test the intonation by playing the guitar and checking if the strings return to their original pitch after using the vibrato arm.
Lubrication and Fine-Tuning
To ensure smooth operation of the Bigsby, apply a small amount of lubricant to the nut and bridge saddles. This helps the strings move freely when the vibrato arm is engaged. Additionally, check the tension of the Bigsby spring and adjust it if necessary for optimal performance.
It is also important to verify that the nut is free of burrs or irregularities that could interfere with the string’s movement. If burrs are present, gently file or sand them away using an appropriately sized nut file or abrasive cord. You can also apply a lubricant such as graphite or a proprietary product like Big Bends Nut Sauce to the nut slots to aid in string movement.
Grounding Considerations
One often-overlooked aspect of installing a Bigsby is the grounding of the system. Unlike traditional wrapover or stopbar bridges, the Bigsby is not directly connected to the guitar's grounding system. This can result in unwanted noise or interference, especially in semi-hollow or hollow-body guitars.
To resolve this, a grounding wire must be run from the Bigsby to the guitar’s electrical system. This is typically done by drilling a small hole through the side of the guitar body at the tail, where the Bigsby or trapeze tailpiece will conceal the wire. In some cases, especially with semi-solid guitars that have a center block, the wire must be routed through the body at an angle to avoid damaging the lacquer or creating unsightly scratches.
Once the wire is in place, connect it to the existing grounding system within the guitar. This may involve soldering or using a terminal block to secure the connection. After grounding, test the guitar to ensure that the noise has been eliminated and that the vibrato system functions as intended.
Tuning Stability and Limitations
The Bigsby vibrato system is designed to provide a subtle pitch modulation, typically within a couple of semitones. It is not intended for extreme pitch changes such as "dive-bombing" effects that are common with other vibrato systems. Therefore, it is important to set up the system in a way that maintains tuning stability while still allowing for expressive vibrato.
To ensure tuning stability, make sure that the nut is properly cut and free of burrs. A well-cut nut allows the strings to move smoothly and return to pitch after vibrato use. If the nut is poorly cut or has rough edges, the strings may not return to the correct pitch, leading to tuning instability.
Another factor that affects tuning stability is the tension of the Bigsby spring. If the spring is too loose, the vibrato arm may not return to its resting position, and the strings may sag. If the spring is too tight, the vibrato arm may be difficult to move. Finding the right balance is key to achieving both tuning stability and a smooth vibrato effect.
Conclusion
The Bigsby vibrato system is a versatile and expressive component that can significantly enhance the sound and playability of a semi-hollow or electric guitar. By following the step-by-step installation process outlined in this guide, advanced builders and DIY enthusiasts can successfully integrate a Bigsby into their instruments. The system requires careful attention to detail, especially when positioning the bridge, adjusting the string angle, and ensuring proper grounding.
As with any mechanical system, the Bigsby must be properly maintained to ensure optimal performance. Regular lubrication, nut adjustments, and spring tension checks are essential for maintaining tuning stability and ensuring a smooth vibrato effect. With the right tools, techniques, and attention to detail, the Bigsby can be a valuable addition to any guitarist’s arsenal.