The Crow Hill Co. has released Bridge Guitar, a free acoustic instrument available now as part of their Vaults series. Capturing the muted, percussive tone of a rubber bridge guitar, this sample library offers a lo-fi acoustic texture perfect for songwriting and intimate production.
Bridge Guitar is based on a unique treatment pioneered by LA luthier Reuben Cox, who began modifying vintage acoustic guitars with rubber saddles in the early 2010s. This innovation reduces sustain and resonance, resulting in a sound reminiscent of pizzicato strings – muted, warm, and naturally rhythmic. The tone has become popular among artists like Perfume Genius, Wilco, Phoebe Bridgers, and Taylor Swift.
A Unique Sound with Indie Roots
The instrument sampled for Bridge Guitar is a detuned parlour acoustic, closely miked to preserve its soft, tactile quality. The result is a highly playable instrument that sits beautifully under vocals without overpowering them. The sharp damping of high frequencies and sustain gives it a space-friendly character that blends naturally into mixes.
DIY versions of the rubber bridge effect have circulated among indie musicians and TikTok creators, using rubber bands, foam, or tennis dampeners to emulate the vibe. Now, Bridge Guitar makes that sound easily accessible in digital form.
Part of the Vaults Series
Bridge Guitar is the latest addition to the Crow Hill Vaults series, a curated collection of creative, expressive, and sometimes unconventional sample instruments offered completely free. These instruments are designed to be lightweight, inspiring, and ready for immediate use in any DAW.
Features
- Authentic rubber bridge acoustic guitar sound
- Muted, lo-fi tone ideal for vocals and songwriting
- Recorded from a detuned parlour acoustic guitar
- Mic’d for intimacy and warmth
- Free to download, no signup required
- Available as part of the Crow Hill Co. Vaults collection
Free Download
Bridge Guitar is available now as a free download from The Crow Hill Co. website.
