Aloha everyone,

I have been reading up on bridges and have noticed people on both sides of the issue of ebony inserts for the E-string.  On my bridge, I have a bridge "protector" like those sold at Fiddlershop.  The entry for the bridge protector indicates that it must be glued on.  Is that the same for the ebony inserts?

I've noticed Teller and Aubert bridge that are not fitted, with no notches pre-cut, but with the ebony insert already in place, at least in the picture.  Were one to attempt to fit one of those bridges to their instrument and have to shape the top of the bridge, I would assume that the ebony inserts would have to be removed.  Am I correct in that assumption?

I want a good bridge on my fiddle, and judging by the previous fittings and the accompanying case and bow, I'm thinking that I should at least consider replacing the bridge.  At least I would have a "backup" bridge.  Plus, it sounds like a fun project and bridge blanks are pretty cheap.  I've mentioned Teller and Aubert, but there are many other bridge makers.  What would y'all recommend?  I may end up ordering a couple, as I'm not sure my first foray into shaping a bridge for my fiddle will go exactly as planned

I welcome any and all thoughts on this issue.