Electric guitars with Bigsby are a type of electric guitar that features a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece. This tailpiece allows the player to create a wide range of vibrato effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic dives. Electric guitars with Bigsby are popular among a variety of musicians, from rock and blues to country and jazz.
Editor’s Notes:Electric guitars with Bigsby are an important topic for musicians to understand because they offer a unique and expressive way to add vibrato to their playing. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about electric guitars with Bigsby, including their history, benefits, and how to choose the right one for you.
After analyzing all this we put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the right decision when choosing an electric guitar with Bigsby.
Key Differences
| Electric Guitar with Bigsby | Electric Guitar without Bigsby | |
|---|---|---|
| Vibrato Effects | Can create a wide range of vibrato effects | Cannot create vibrato effects |
| Playing Style | Well-suited for a variety of playing styles, including rock, blues, country, and jazz | Best suited for playing styles that do not require vibrato |
| Price | Typically more expensive than electric guitars without Bigsby | Typically less expensive than electric guitars with Bigsby |
Main Article Topics
- History of electric guitars with Bigsby
- Benefits of electric guitars with Bigsby
- How to choose the right electric guitar with Bigsby
- Tips for playing electric guitar with Bigsby
1. Vibrato effects
The vibrato tailpiece is one of the most important components of an electric guitar with Bigsby. It is responsible for creating the characteristic vibrato effect, which is a subtle variation in pitch that can be used to add expression and emotion to playing. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a unique and versatile design that allows players to create a wide range of vibrato effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic dives. This makes it a popular choice for musicians who want to add a touch of personality to their playing.
There are many different ways to use the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece to create vibrato effects. Some players prefer to use a subtle vibrato, which can be achieved by gently moving the vibrato arm back and forth. Others prefer to use a more dramatic vibrato, which can be achieved by moving the vibrato arm more vigorously. The amount of vibrato that is created can also be controlled by the tension of the springs on the vibrato tailpiece. Looser springs will result in a more subtle vibrato, while tighter springs will result in a more dramatic vibrato.
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a powerful tool that can be used to add a wide range of vibrato effects to electric guitar playing. It is a versatile and unique design that allows players to create their own personal sound. Whether you’re looking for a subtle warble or a dramatic dive, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can help you achieve the perfect vibrato effect.
Key insights:
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is responsible for creating the characteristic vibrato effect on electric guitars.
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a unique and versatile design that allows players to create a wide range of vibrato effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic dives.
- The amount of vibrato that is created can be controlled by the tension of the springs on the vibrato tailpiece.
2. Playing style
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a versatile and unique design that allows players to create a wide range of vibrato effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic dives. This makes electric guitars with Bigsby well-suited for a variety of playing styles, including rock, blues, country, and jazz.
In rock music, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle vibrato to dramatic dive bombs. This makes it a popular choice for rock guitarists who want to add a touch of expression and personality to their playing.
In blues music, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can be used to create a subtle vibrato effect that adds warmth and emotion to the sound. This makes it a popular choice for blues guitarists who want to add a touch of soul to their playing.
In country music, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic bends. This makes it a popular choice for country guitarists who want to add a touch of twang to their playing.
In jazz music, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle vibrato to dramatic dives. This makes it a popular choice for jazz guitarists who want to add a touch of sophistication to their playing.
Overall, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a versatile and unique design that allows players to create a wide range of vibrato effects. This makes electric guitars with Bigsby well-suited for a variety of playing styles, including rock, blues, country, and jazz.
Key insights:
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a versatile and unique design that allows players to create a wide range of vibrato effects.
- Electric guitars with Bigsby are well-suited for a variety of playing styles, including rock, blues, country, and jazz.
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle vibrato to dramatic dives.
3. Price
The price of an electric guitar with Bigsby is typically higher than the price of an electric guitar without Bigsby. This is because the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex and expensive component to manufacture. In addition, electric guitars with Bigsby are often made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship, which also contributes to their higher price.
- Factors that contribute to the higher price of electric guitars with Bigsby:
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex and expensive component to manufacture.
Electric guitars with Bigsby are often made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Implications of the higher price of electric guitars with Bigsby:
Electric guitars with Bigsby may not be affordable for all musicians.
Musicians who are on a budget may want to consider purchasing an electric guitar without Bigsby.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase an electric guitar with
Bigsby is a personal one. Musicians should weigh the pros and cons of each type of guitar before making a decision.
4. History
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece was invented in the 1950s by Paul Bigsby, a renowned American guitarist and inventor. Bigsby’s invention revolutionized the world of electric guitars, as it allowed guitarists to create a wide range of vibrato effects, from subtle warbles to dramatic dives. Prior to the invention of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece, guitarists were limited to using the tremolo arm on their guitars to create vibrato effects. However, the tremolo arm only allowed for a limited range of vibrato effects, and it was not as stable as the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece.
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece quickly became popular among guitarists of all genres, and it remains one of the most popular vibrato tailpieces on the market today. Electric guitars with Bigsby vibrato tailpieces are known for their distinctive sound and feel, and they are used by a wide range of musicians, from rock and blues to country and jazz.
The invention of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece had a profound impact on the development of electric guitars. It allowed guitarists to create a wider range of vibrato effects, which opened up new possibilities for musical expression. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a truly iconic invention, and it continues to be an essential part of many electric guitars today.
Key insights:
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece was invented in the 1950s by Paul Bigsby.
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece revolutionized the world of electric guitars by allowing guitarists to create a wide range of vibrato effects.
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is still one of the most popular vibrato tailpieces on the market today.
5. Construction
The construction of an electric guitar with Bigsby has a significant impact on its sound and playability. Electric guitars with Bigsby typically have a solid body and a bolt-on neck. This construction provides several advantages over other types of construction, such as a more resonant sound, better sustain, and greater stability.
- Solid body: A solid body guitar has a body that is made from a single piece of wood, typically mahogany, alder, or ash. This type of construction provides a more resonant sound with better sustain than guitars with a hollow or semi-hollow body. The solid body also helps to reduce feedback, which is a common problem with hollow-body guitars.
- Bolt-on neck: A bolt-on neck is a neck that is attached to the body of the guitar with bolts. This type of construction is less expensive to manufacture than a set neck or neck-through construction, and it also allows for easier neck replacement if necessary. Bolt-on necks are typically made from maple or rosewood.
The combination of a solid body and a bolt-on neck gives electric guitars with Bigsby a unique sound and feel. These guitars are known for their bright, twangy sound, and they are often used in rock, blues, and country music. Electric guitars with Bigsby are also popular among guitarists who want to add a touch of vintage flair to their playing.
6. Pickups
The type of pickups that are used in an electric guitar with Bigsby has a significant impact on the sound of the guitar. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound, while humbucker pickups are known for their warmer, fatter sound. P-90 pickups are a hybrid of single-coil and humbucker pickups, and they offer a unique blend of both sounds.
The choice of pickups is a matter of personal preference, but there are some general guidelines that can help you choose the right pickups for your electric guitar with Bigsby.
| Pickup Type | Sound | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Single-coil | Bright, twangy | Rock, blues, country |
| Humbucker | Warm, fat | Rock, metal, jazz |
| P-90 | A blend of single-coil and humbucker sounds | Rock, blues, country, jazz |
Here are some tips for choosing the right pickups for your electric guitar with Bigsby:
- Consider the style of music that you play. Single-coil pickups are a good choice for rock, blues, and country music, while humbucker pickups are a good choice for rock, metal, and jazz music.
- Think about the sound that you want to achieve. Single-coil pickups produce a brighter, twangier sound, while humbucker pickups produce a warmer, fatter sound.
- Experiment with different pickup combinations. You can find many different pickup combinations available, so experiment until you find the sound that you like best.
7. Bridge
Electric guitars with Bigsby typically have a Tune-o-matic bridge. This type of bridge is known for its stability, intonation, and sustain. It is also relatively easy to adjust, making it a good choice for guitarists who want to fine-tune their instrument’s sound.
- Stability: The Tune-o-matic bridge is a very stable bridge, which means that it will not move around or go out of tune easily. This is important for guitarists who want to be able to play their instrument without having to worry about the bridge shifting.
- Intonation: The Tune-o-matic bridge allows for precise intonation, which means that each string can be adjusted to be in tune with the other strings. This is important for guitarists who want to play chords and melodies that sound clean and in tune.
- Sustain: The Tune-o-matic bridge helps to sustain the notes on your guitar. This is important for guitarists who want to play long, sustained notes or chords.
- Adjustability: The Tune-o-matic bridge is relatively easy to adjust, making it a good choice for guitarists who want to fine-tune their instrument’s sound. The height of the bridge can be adjusted to change the action of the guitar, and the intonation of each string can be adjusted to ensure that it is in tune with the other strings.
Overall, the Tune-o-matic bridge is a good choice for guitarists who want a stable, intonated, and sustain-ful bridge. It is also a relatively easy bridge to adjust, making it a good choice for guitarists who want to fine-tune their instrument’s sound.
8. Tuning stability
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex mechanical device that can add stress to the guitar’s neck and body. This stress can cause the guitar to go out of tune more easily than a guitar without a Bigsby. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece also adds weight to the guitar, which can make it more difficult to keep the guitar in tune when playing live.
There are a few things th
at guitarists can do to help improve the tuning stability of their electric guitar with Bigsby. First, it is important to use high-quality strings. Cheap strings are more likely to break and go out of tune. Second, it is important to keep the guitar’s neck and body clean and well-lubricated. This will help to reduce friction and make it easier for the guitar to stay in tune. Finally, it is important to use the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece correctly. Avoid using excessive force when using the vibrato arm, and be sure to return the arm to its original position after each use.
Despite the potential for tuning issues, many guitarists believe that the unique sound and feel of an electric guitar with Bigsby is worth the extra effort required to keep it in tune. With proper care and maintenance, an electric guitar with Bigsby can be a reliable and versatile instrument.
Key insights:
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece can add stress to the guitar’s neck and body, which can cause the guitar to go out of tune more easily.
- There are a few things that guitarists can do to help improve the tuning stability of their electric guitar with Bigsby, such as using high-quality strings, keeping the guitar clean and well-lubricated, and using the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece correctly.
- Despite the potential for tuning issues, many guitarists believe that the unique sound and feel of an electric guitar with Bigsby is worth the extra effort required to keep it in tune.
Table: Tuning stability of electric guitars with and without Bigsby
| Guitar type | Tuning stability |
|---|---|
| Electric guitar without Bigsby | More stable |
| Electric guitar with Bigsby | Less stable |
9. Maintenance
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex mechanical device that requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. This maintenance includes lubricating the moving parts of the tailpiece, adjusting the tension of the springs, and checking the intonation of the guitar. If the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is not properly maintained, it can cause the guitar to go out of tune, buzz, or rattle.
There are a few reasons why electric guitars with Bigsby require more maintenance than electric guitars without Bigsby. First, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece adds weight to the guitar, which can put stress on the neck and body of the guitar. This stress can cause the guitar to go out of tune more easily, and it can also lead to problems with the guitar’s intonation. Second, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex mechanical device that has many moving parts. These moving parts can wear out over time, and they need to be lubricated and adjusted regularly to keep them functioning properly.
Despite the increased maintenance requirements, many guitarists believe that the unique sound and feel of an electric guitar with Bigsby is worth the extra effort. With proper care and maintenance, an electric guitar with Bigsby can be a reliable and versatile instrument.
Key insights:
- The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex mechanical device that requires regular maintenance.
- Electric guitars with Bigsby require more maintenance than electric guitars without Bigsby.
- The increased maintenance requirements are due to the weight of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece and the complexity of its design.
- Despite the increased maintenance requirements, many guitarists believe that the unique sound and feel of an electric guitar with Bigsby is worth the extra effort.
Table: Maintenance requirements of electric guitars with and without Bigsby
| Guitar type | Maintenance requirements |
|---|---|
| Electric guitar without Bigsby | Less maintenance |
| Electric guitar with Bigsby | More maintenance |
10. Accessories
Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and customizing the playing experience of electric guitars with Bigsby. These accessories are specifically designed to complement the unique characteristics of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece, allowing guitarists to tailor their instrument to their individual playing style and preferences.
One of the most important accessories for electric guitars with Bigsby is the vibrato arm. The vibrato arm is used to create vibrato effects by moving the tailpiece back and forth. Different types of vibrato arms are available, each offering a unique feel and range of motion. Some vibrato arms are shorter and stiffer, providing a more subtle vibrato effect, while others are longer and more flexible, allowing for more dramatic vibrato effects.
Another important accessory for electric guitars with Bigsby is the set of springs. The springs are responsible for providing tension to the tailpiece, which affects the stiffness of the vibrato arm and the overall feel of the guitar. Different spring tensions can be used to achieve different playing feels, from a soft and subtle vibrato to a more pronounced and aggressive vibrato.
Finally, replacement tailpieces are also available for electric guitars with Bigsby. Tailpieces come in a variety of styles and materials, and they can be used to change the look and feel of the guitar. Some tailpieces are made from lightweight materials, such as aluminum, which can reduce the weight of the guitar and improve its balance. Other tailpieces are made from heavier materials, such as brass, which can add sustain and resonance to the guitar’s tone.
By understanding the connection between accessories and electric guitars with Bigsby, guitarists can make informed decisions about which accessories to use to customize their instrument and achieve their desired playing experience.
Key insights:
- Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and customizing the playing experience of electric guitars with Bigsby.
- Different types of vibrato arms, springs, and tailpieces are available to complement the unique characteristics of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece.
- Guitarists can tailor their electric guitar with Bigsby to their individual playing style and preferences by choosing the right accessories.
Table: Accessories for electric guitars with Bigsby
| Accessory | Function |
|---|---|
| Vibrato arm | Used to create vibrato effects by moving the tailpiece back and forth. |
| Springs | Provide tension to the tailpiece, which affects the stiffness of the vibrato arm and the overall feel of the guitar. |
| Tailpiece | Changes the look and feel of the guitar, and can also affect the guitar’s tone. |
FAQs about Electric Guitars with Bigsby
Electric guitars with Bigsby vibrato tailpieces are popular among musicians of all genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz. However, there are some common questions and misconceptions about these guitars that we will address in this FAQ section.
Question 1: Are electric guitars with Bigsby more difficult to play than electric guitars without Bigsby?
Answer: Not necessarily. Electric guitars with Bigsby can be just as easy to play as electric guitars w
ithout Bigsby. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece does add some weight to the guitar, which can make it slightly more difficult to hold and play for extended periods of time. However, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece also allows for a wider range of vibrato effects, which can make it a more versatile instrument for some players.
Question 2: Do electric guitars with Bigsby stay in tune as well as electric guitars without Bigsby?
Answer: Electric guitars with Bigsby can be more difficult to keep in tune than electric guitars without Bigsby. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece adds stress to the guitar’s neck and body, which can cause the guitar to go out of tune more easily. However, there are a few things that guitarists can do to help improve the tuning stability of their electric guitar with Bigsby, such as using high-quality strings, keeping the guitar clean and well-lubricated, and using the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece correctly.
Question 3: Are electric guitars with Bigsby more expensive than electric guitars without Bigsby?
Answer: Yes, electric guitars with Bigsby are typically more expensive than electric guitars without Bigsby. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a complex and expensive component to manufacture, and it also adds to the cost of the guitar’s materials and craftsmanship.
Question 4: What are the benefits of using an electric guitar with Bigsby?
Answer: Electric guitars with Bigsby offer a number of benefits, including:
- A wider range of vibrato effects
- A unique and distinctive sound
- Increased versatility
- A more expressive playing experience
Question 5: What are the drawbacks of using an electric guitar with Bigsby?
Answer: Electric guitars with Bigsby also have some drawbacks, including:
- Increased cost
- More difficult to keep in tune
- Increased maintenance requirements
- Added weight
Question 6: Is an electric guitar with Bigsby right for me?
Answer: Whether or not an electric guitar with Bigsby is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a guitar that offers a wide range of vibrato effects, a unique and distinctive sound, and increased versatility, then an electric guitar with Bigsby may be a good option for you. However, if you are on a budget, or if you are concerned about keeping your guitar in tune, then an electric guitar without Bigsby may be a better choice.
We hope this FAQ section has answered some of the most common questions about electric guitars with Bigsby. If you have any further questions, please feel free to consult a qualified guitar technician or music educator.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that we have covered some of the basics of electric guitars with Bigsby, let’s take a closer look at some of the specific models that are available on the market today.
Tips for Playing Electric Guitar with Bigsby
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a unique and versatile design that allows guitarists to create a wide range of vibrato effects. However, playing electric guitar with Bigsby can be a bit different than playing electric guitar without Bigsby. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your electric guitar with Bigsby:
Tip 1: Use the vibrato arm correctly. The vibrato arm is the most important part of the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece. It is used to create vibrato effects by moving the tailpiece back and forth. When using the vibrato arm, it is important to be gentle and to avoid using excessive force. Excessive force can damage the vibrato arm or the guitar itself.Tip 2: Keep your guitar in tune. Electric guitars with Bigsby can be more difficult to keep in tune than electric guitars without Bigsby. This is because the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece adds stress to the guitar’s neck and body. To help keep your guitar in tune, be sure to use high-quality strings and to keep the guitar clean and well-lubricated.Tip 3: Experiment with different spring tensions. The springs on the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece control the tension of the vibrato arm. Different spring tensions can be used to achieve different playing feels. Experiment with different spring tensions to find the setting that works best for you.Tip 4: Use a light touch. When playing electric guitar with Bigsby, it is important to use a light touch. This will help to prevent the guitar from going out of tune and will also help to extend the life of the vibrato arm.Tip 5: Be patient. Learning to play electric guitar with Bigsby takes time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Just keep practicing and you will eventually get the hang of it.
Conclusion
The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece is a unique and versatile design that has been used by guitarists for decades to create a wide range of vibrato effects. Electric guitars with Bigsby are popular among musicians of all genres, from rock and blues to country and jazz. However, there are some important things to consider before purchasing an electric guitar with Bigsby, such as the increased cost, the more difficult maintenance, and the potential for tuning issues.
If you are looking for a guitar that offers a wide range of vibrato effects, a unique and distinctive sound, and increased versatility, then an electric guitar with Bigsby may be a good option for you. However, if you are on a budget, or if you are concerned about keeping your guitar in tune, then an electric guitar without Bigsby may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase an electric guitar with Bigsby is a personal one. However, by understanding the benefits and drawbacks of these guitars, you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
