Abstract: An improved nut design for positioning near the fingerboard of a stringed instrument or at the opposing anchor ends of the strings of the instrument comprising a nut body having a raised string support column for each respective string and a fluted or open space between each column for enhancement of sound transfer into the resonating body of the instrument. The modification of the nut body to form a crown with alternating support columns and open spaces has been found to substantially improve sound transfer and tone production. The nut configuration has been adapted for the nut body positioned at the upper end of the fingerboard, and also for the saddle and tail piece for stringed instruments of the violin family.

Abstract: An improved bridge for stringed instrument comprising a single, integral bridge body having a bridge crown formed of two alternating sections. The first section comprises the string support column with a groove at the top thereof for positioning the strings of the instrument at appropriate levels above the fingerboard. The second section of the crown comprises a (i) fluted portion and (ii) contiguous web support member disposed between two adjacent string support columns. Improved transfer of vibrational energy from the strings of the instrument occurs through the string support columns which have longer grooves providing for increased string contact. The intermediate fluted portion and web operate to more effectively transfer vibrational energy toward the base of the bridge for transfer into the resonating body of the instrument.