What to Know About Bigsby Hollow Body Guitars?

Instruments Guitar and Bass
1

Introduction

I’ve been diving into the world of guitars, and I can’t help but be fascinated by Bigsby hollow body guitars. As I explore options for my next guitar purchase, I’m reaching out to see if anyone can shed some light on these beauties!

Key Features

From what I’ve gathered, here are some notable features that set Bigsby hollow body guitars apart:

  • Sound Quality: Their construction often allows for rich, warm tones which seem perfect for jazz and rock genres.
  • Design: The aesthetic appeal is phenomenal—the classic curves and finishes really stand out!
  • Playability: I’ve heard they are easy to play, but I’d love to hear some first-hand accounts.

Comparisons to Other Guitars

How do they stack up against other guitar types, especially solid body guitars? I’ve read that the resonance and feedback characteristics are quite different. Does anyone have experience with both types? Which do you prefer for live gigs versus studio recordings?

Genres and Styles

What genres do you think they excel in? I know they are often associated with jazz and rock, but I’m curious about other styles too. Can they hold their own in more modern genres like indie or alt-rock?

Recommendations

For those who own or have played Bigsby hollow body guitars, do you have specific models or brands that you’d recommend? What should I be on the lookout for when making a decision?

Conclusion

I appreciate any insights you can offer! Your input will be invaluable as I ponder this exciting purchase. Thanks in advance for your help!

2

Hollow body guitars with Bigsby systems require some specific care. When changing strings, make sure you use lighter gauge strings to prevent the bridge from collapsing. Also, always check the intonation after changing strings, as the Bigsby can alter it slightly.

3

Great advice! I also recommend making bridge adjustments frequently since the setup can change with humidity and temperature.

6 Likes
4

I’ve found that when adjusting the bridge, it’s essential to check the action height. If it’s too low, you might get fret buzz even with correct intonation. A standard set-up should involve checking both intonation and action together.

5 Likes
5

Exactly! I learned the hard way that a slight change in action can affect playability a lot. Always test after adjustments!

3 Likes
6

Don’t forget about keeping the Bigsby itself clean! It can collect dirt and grime. A good wipe with a soft cloth after every use can make a big difference in performance.

7

I never thought about that! I usually just focus on the guitar body. Thanks for the heads-up!

8

For those who struggle with tuning stability after doing a string change, try stretching your new strings before playing. It helps the strings settle in quicker, which is crucial with a vibrato system.

9

That’s a useful tip! I also like to tune the guitar to pitch after stretching, just to ensure everything’s stable.

10

Time management is key! Regular maintenance can be easy to put off, but checking intonation and action every few months can save a lot of headaches later.

11

So true! I often forget until I’m mid-session. A little checklist could help remind us to keep up on the maintenance.

12

Can you even call it a Bigsby if it’s never been out of tune? (Just kidding!) But seriously, keeping everything in check is really important.

13

Haha, that’s the truth! But it can be frustrating when you can’t figure out what’s wrong. Patience is key with these guitars.

14

Bigsby hollow body guitars are known for their rich tone! A good quality set of flatwound strings can really enhance the playability. Try D’Addario or Thomastik for that smooth feel.

2 Likes
15

Interesting! I’ve never tried flatwound strings. Do they help with tuning stability as well?

16

Absolutely, arichardson! Flatwound strings tend to have less tension. For cases, look for ones that have good padding—like the Gator or SKB brand. Protecting your guitar is key.

17

I agree! It’s so important to keep your hollow body safe. What about end caps for tuning stability? Any recommendations?

18

Walkeralbert, you can’t go wrong with the B6 end cap. It provides great tension and helps maintain tuning on Bigsbys, especially under heavy use.

19

That’s good to know! Do you think changing the nut can also help with tuning stability?

20

Definitely, heather72! A well-cut bone nut or a GrafTech nut can reduce friction, which in turn helps with tuning stability. It’s a small change that makes a big difference.