Pressure from the strings onto the banjo bridge creates an indentation in the head. This pressure compresses the bridge into a natural curve creating a stress within the bridge, limiting its ability to vibrate freely and thus inhibiting the tone.

So why is the bottom of a banjo bridge flat?

Deering’s new patent-pending Smile Banjo Bridge is created to fit into the natural curve created on a banjo head when under string tension. This relieves the stress found in a traditional banjo bridge allowing the Smile Bridge to vibrate without constriction. The result is an instantly fuller and more expressive midrange, less constricted low end frequencies, and a wonderful balance across all strings.

 

Put a Smile™ On Your Banjo

This exciting advancement in banjo development is the easiest change you can make to your banjo to instantly enhance the tone.

  • Enhanced Midrange Frequencies
  • Less Constricted Low End Frequencies
  • Beautiful Balance From String To String
Currently available for 5-String banjos with a 5/8"  or 11/16" bridge height. Available in flat (standard) or radiused top.
More styles to follow shortly.

The Smile™ bridge totally transformed the sound of my already wonderful sounding Golden Clipper.  The tone was richer, fuller, louder (in a good way), with a touch of pre-war sizzle.  I continue to be wowed!

Tony Trischka Banjo Virtuoso

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There is no more pressure in the bridge so it is already like a played in bridge.... It really works and it sounds fantastic.

Jens Kruger Kruger Brothers

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I have never heard such a drastic positive change in tone and volume with a new bridge on any of my banjos. It sounds fabulous on my 1935 Kel Kroyden.

Greg Cahill The Special Consensus

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Greg Cahill banjo player
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