One Last Bigsby Question

[Keith7940236]

Especially after watching the Johnny A vids (thanks MartyGrass), I've pretty much decided to go with the Bigsby on my Eagle TDC. The folks at the factory recommended the B-6.

I have read where some people recommend a roller bridge and others warn against it. Does anyone have any input before I take the plunge?

 

Thanks again, this is a great resource.

 

Keith

[tbonesullivan]

If you are going to have a bigsby, I would definitely say get the roller bridge. I don't see why anyone would warn against it, particularly in a tremelo situation. Hamer uses the same roller bridges on their Newport models with bigsby tremelos. I also believe that Heritage used to prefer the Schaller roller bridge because it gave a warmer sound.

 

Anyway, here's some eye candy to help you in your decision:

 

[High Flying Bird]

Logic would say that a roller bridge would be the way to go but I used the bridge this 137 came with and it seemed to stay in tune as good or better than the gold 535 with a roller. Use what you have first and upgrade later. I know this sounds crazy but I was shocked at how well this bridge worked.

 

[big bob]

I have schaller roller bridges on all three of my bigsby equipped guitars, I like the string spacing side to side adj it offers as well.

[H555rocks]

Same as they said, go for the roller.

[Spectrum13]

Keith, IMO it would depend on how well the saddle slots were cut and how stable the bridge was built and attached. All part of a "professional" setup which is as good as the quality of the parts (nut, tuners, strings, bridge, studs) design of the guitar, quality of the build and skill of the person doing the setup.

[Gitfiddler]

I'd also recommend going with a roller bridge for your Bigsby set-up.

 

I've seen a few factory installed t.o.m. bridges tilt after months or years of Bigsby use. Part of that problem is soft wood under the top where the t.o.m. base is attached, but it is yet another issue that should be prevented with the decreased friction of a roller bridge.

[Keith7940236]

Thanks again for all of the follow up. I have an appoinment set up with a quality luthier here in Portland and will get the work done next week. I'll post pictures when it's done!!!

Keith