Understanding the Fender Telecaster Short Bridge and Models

Understanding the Telecaster Short Bridge

The Fender Telecaster, introduced in 1950, is one of the most iconic electric guitar designs in history. Loved for its simple yet elegant design and bright, cutting tone, the Tele has been a staple of country, blues, and rock music for over 70 years.

One of the key components of the Telecaster's unique sound and playability is its bridge. Unlike the adjustable bridges found on Stratocasters and other guitar models, the Telecaster features a fixed bridge with three adjustable steel saddles. This helps provide the Tele with its characteristic twang and bite.

What is a Short Bridge?

There are two main variants of the Telecaster bridge - the standard long bridge, and the short bridge. The short bridge positions the bridge closer to the neck pickup compared to a standard Tele bridge.

Many players prefer the short bridge variant as it helps provide a warmer, rounder tone. The shorter string length reduces the tension and brightness somewhat, making the short bridge Teleexcel for blues, rock, and jazz.

Benefits of a Short Bridge

There are a few key benefits associated with choosing a Telecaster short bridge:

• Warmer, rounder tone - Less shrill and bright than standard bridge
• Excellent sustain - Shorter string length increases vibration
• Easier string bending - Reduced tension makes bending easier
• Comfortable playing feel - Many find short bridge more comfortable

The short bridge Telecaster is therefore ideal for guitarists looking for a more rounded, full tone than the standard Tele bridge. The ease of string bending also makes it a great choice for blues, rock, and country guitarists who frequently utilize string bends in their playing.

Considerations with a Short Bridge

While the Telecaster short bridge offers some significant tonal and playability benefits, there are also some considerations to bear in mind compared to a standard bridge:

• Less twang and bite - The signature Tele twang is reduced
• May affect guitar tuning stability
• Limits customization compared to adjustable bridges

The short bridge is fixed in position, so players cannot adjust saddle height or position. This may present tuning stability issues for some guitarists. The fixed bridge also does not allow adjustments to alter string tension and tone.

Installing a Short Bridge Pickup

If you want to install a short bridge on your Telecaster, there are a few options available:

• Purchase a Telecaster model with a factory fitted short bridge
• Buy an aftermarket pre-slotted short bridge plate
• Custom order a new bridge plate tailored for a short bridge

When installing a new short bridge plate, it usually requires drilling new mounting holes for the bridge since its positioning is different from a standard bridge. This requires precise measurement and drilling to get it right.

Setting Up a New Short Bridge

Once your new short bridge plate is installed, there are a few key steps to ensure optimal set up:

1. Check neck relief and adjust truss rod accordingly
2. Set bridge saddle height correctly for proper string spacing
3. Test string height action and adjust to preference
4. Tune strings and check intonation across fretboard
5. Perform fine tuners to adjusted any tuning instability
6. Try bending strings to test ease of bending

Pay special attention to tuning stability once the new bridge is installed. The break angle may differ substantially from your previous bridge, so checking tuning accuracy across the neck is vital.

Gauging String Tension and Tone

With your Telecaster short bridge installed and tuned up, spend some time gauging the tonal differences compared to a standard Tele bridge. Here are some key points to assess:

• Bend strings to test ease and sound
• Check tone switching between bridge and neck pickups
• Play across different fret positions and listen for tonal changes
• Strum aggressively and gently to assess dynamics

You may notice the reduced twang and shrillness, especially on the lower wound strings. If tuning is unstable, you may need to adjust saddle position or string gauge to compensate. Experiment to find your ideal short bridge tone.

Short Bridge Telecaster Models

Many big guitar manufacturers now offer short bridge versions of the venerable Telecaster in their model lineup including:

Fender Tele Thinline Short Bridge

Features a semi-hollow chambered ash or mahogany body paired with the short bridge option. Excellent full-bodied tone.

Squier Classic Vibe 50's Tele Short Bridge

A fantastic value Telecaster with custom vintage alnico pickups and a quality short bridge setup.

Fender Jimmy Stafford Signature Tele

Train guitarist Jimmy Stafford's signature model comes equipped with a velvet-soft short bridge tone.

G&L ASAT Classic Bluesboy Short Bridge

The Bluesboy Tele from G&L features a Leo Fender short bridge design paired with P-90 style pickups.

There are certainly no shortage of great short bridge Tele options out there from big brands to small custom shops. Finding the right short bridge model for your musical needs and budget can take your Telecaster tone to glorious new heights.

FAQs

What are the tonal differences between a short bridge and standard Tele bridge?

A short bridge Tele has a warmer, rounder tone compared to a standard Tele bridge. The short bridge reduces the signature Telecaster twang and shrillness in favor of more balanced mids and lows. The ease of bending also makes short bridge Teles popular amongst blues and rock guitarists.

Does a short bridge affect tuning stability?

In some cases a short bridge Telecaster may be more prone to tuning instability compared to a standard bridge. This depends on the break angle over the bridge and the quality of the bridge itself. Adjusting saddle position, string gauge, and using high quality strings can improve stability.

What guitar models offer a short bridge option?

Many big manufacturers like Fender and Squier offer short bridge versions of classic Telecasters. Some popular models are the Fender Thinline Tele, Squier Classic Vibe 50's Tele, and G&L Bluesboy ASAT Classic with short bridges. There are also many custom builders that offer short bridge Telecaster styles.

Is it difficult installing a short bridge on my Tele?

If your Tele has a standard long bridge, installing a short bridge requires drilling new mounting holes for proper placement and angle. This is best left to experienced guitar technicians. Purchasing a guitar with a pre-installed quality short bridge is the easiest option.