Tailpiece

The tailpiece acts as a damper to the vibration of the strings. Adjustment to the weight and the position of the tailpiece also has a marked tonal effect on the bass, as well as affecting the feel of the strings to the player.

Saddle

The saddle protects the lower edge of the bass from the high tension of the strings. The height of the saddle affects the angle of the strings over the bridge, and hence the pressure of the strings on the top, and the feel of the strings to the player.