Abstract: A stringed instrument including a body having a front surface and a rear surface, a tuning mechanism, a neck having one end joined to the body and an opposite end retaining the tuning mechanism, and a retainer block encompassed by the rear surface. A plurality of strings each have a first end secured to the tuning mechanism and a second end retained by the retainer block. Also included is a bridge system having a tailpiece mounted on the front surface and defining a plurality of holes each providing passage for one of the strings, and a connector assembly extending through the body and securing the tailpiece to the retainer block.

Abstract: A stringed instrument including a body having a front surface and a rear surface, a tuning mechanism, and a neck having one end joined to the body and an opposite end retaining the tuning mechanism. A retainer block is encompassed by the rear surface and a plurality of strings each has a first end secured to the tuning mechanism and a second end retained by the retainer block.