Problems with ABR-1

[SabbathFan0220]

I have a 2004 Epiphone Elitist SG that came stock with an ABR-1 bridge. Pics here...

http://s416.photobucket.com/albums/p...=IMG_1001b.jpg

http://s416.photobucket.com/albums/p...=IMG_0998b.jpg

http://s416.photobucket.com/albums/p...=IMG_0991b.jpg

The problem is the saddles on it are really sharp. Maybe the string slots were cut to deep or maybe it's the fact that the tops of the saddles aren't beveled like they are on other models. Either way, I palm mute a lot when I play and these dig into my hand. The first picture shows it well. I either want to replace just the saddles or the entire bridge. I don't think it's a Gibson made ABR-1, but I do know that the Epi Elitist series doesn't use the same import parts that other Epiphones do.
I was looking at Graph Tech's replacement saddles and I think these might fit...

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...les?sku=365800

...or maybe just replace the whole bridge with this, and I'm improve the tone and sustain while I'm at it...

http://accessories.musiciansfriend.c...dge?sku=300229

I've used the TonePros Nashville style locking bridge on my LP and it was a huge improvement. StewMac has a modern Nashville style TOM that uses ABR-1 style posts...

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Bridges,...ard_Posts.html

Any suggestions? I was hoping I could learn to live with it the way it is, but I just can't put up with it anymore.

[SabbathFan0220]

Update...I've decided to replace the whole bridge, not just the saddles. The intonation screws on the stock bridge have a lot of wiggle room, so I'd like to upgrade anyway. Anyone know if the Gotoh or the TonePros will fit? I'm leaning towards the Gotoh at this point, since it's only $20...

[the guy who invented fire]

Dunno know about the Gotoh but I know Tnoe Pros has an ABR1 for Epi's...Im almost sure gotoh does too.

Just email a vendor and tell them what you need.

[Aceman]

I have an epi like this. Fortunately it's not a chugga chugga guitar.

If you are replacing, like Christain said - go tone pros.

[SabbathFan0220]

Thanks for the replies, guys.


Aceman - A chugga chugga guitar? ...not sure what that is. Do you recommend the TonePros for the quality or because its a direct replacement?


the guy who invented fire - It looks like TonePros only makes one ABR-1 style, the AVR II...

http://tonepros.com/products.htm


I wouldn't mind switching to a Nashville style TOM as long as it's a proper fit.

[Wattage]

If TonePros has it Gotoh definitely does since they are just modded Gotohs as far as I know BUT you already have a Gotoh bridge from the pics you have up there.

Change the saddles or put them on a wheel or use some emory cloth and take down the rough parts and clean the slots up.

[SabbathFan0220]

If TonePros has it Gotoh definitely does since they are just modded Gotohs as far as I know BUT you already have a Gotoh bridge from the pics you have up there.

Is that 'G' the Gotoh logo?

[Lewguitar]

While you're waiting for your new bridge to arrive, it does seem to me that you could take a nice sharp mill file to the tops of those saddles and flatten them a bit and then remove the sharp edges with emery cloth - you know: cloth backed sandpaper. I don't like the notches cut super deep like that - usually the string will buzz on the sides of the groove and sound bad.

[Wattage]

Is that 'G' the Gotoh logo?

I imagine it might but the stamping is all Gotoh

[SabbathFan0220]

Taking a file to the saddles is a logical solution, but I'm just not comfortable doing it myself. I'd rather leave the stock bridge untouched in the off chance that I need to put it back.

I have a question about bridge compatibility...can a modern Nashville style bridge be used with vintage style ABR-1 threaded posts? I'd rather use a Nashville style TOM if I can, I hate that retaining wire. Something like the TonePros T3BP?

http://tonepros.com/products.htm

If not, I think I'll go with the AVR-II.

Thanks for all the replies.

[Blue313]

A Nashville won't drop right on, its post holes are the wrong size.

It sounds like you want to preserve that OEM bridge. Filing the saddles wont hurt its value at all btw.

Here'e a plan for you. Stow the OEM bridge and go with a replacement Gotoh ABR-1 and some spare saddles to learn on. Then just notch and file the saddles until you get it right. This really is a great thing to know how to do, and its pretty easy.

[ZoSo0789]

The Tonepros is just a Gotoh with two extra holes; theyre even made at the same factory by the same company

[SabbathFan0220]

The Tonepros is just a Gotoh with two extra holes; theyre even made at the same factory by the same company

...so it's not worth it to get the TonePros over the Gotoh then?

[ganzosrevenge]

I say go with callaham.

His stuff is epic for strats, and he just started doing gibson bridges.

http://www.callahamguitars.com/abr1.htm

[uOpt]

Those are really deep slots, it probably messes with sound, too. Some LP fanatics insist on completely unslotted saddles. But it's a SG, so

Stewmac should have you all set. Or try the new Callaham ABR-1.

[theodie]

Change the saddles or put them on a wheel or use some emory cloth and take down the rough parts and clean the slots up.

+1 and +1.