The violin bridge acts as a frequency-tuned impedance-matching intermediary

Evidence

Can something be inserted between string and violin body to lessen the impedance mismatch, thus allowing the energy to take two smaller steps, instead of one large one? While we are at it, can we sweeten the sound by modulating the impedance (and ultimately the loudness of the instrument) according to frequency? The answer is yes: this is the job of the bridge, as we discuss in chapter 18. The bridge is the “intermediate coin” that mediates the transfer of energy from string to body. Its impedance is cleverly tuned by choice of shape, size, and material to depend in a certain way on the frequency of vibration. — Eric J. Heller, Why You Hear What You Hear- An…, 79

Categorization

• DEFINE: Explains bridge function through the lens of impedance matching rather than sheer physical support.
• QUESTION: Worth chasing: exactly how does bridge shape/size/material set the frequency-dependence of impedance, and what that does to tone.
• corroborated: 2 independent passages support this claim — Eric J. Heller, Why You Hear What You Hear- An…, 79
• XREF: connects to: Bridge resonance presents an impedance minimum, making it flute-like.; A tapping bridge adds trumpet-like harmonics to a bowed monochord; A diaphragm loading the bridge drives the Stroh violin’s horn (+1 more)