Saddles

[NY Deadhead]

Hi all. Not sure if this is the correct location. I don't claim to now what most, if not all here, now. That is why I ask a lot of questions. Sorry. So if I want to have my saddle changed, and it doesn't have a "compensation" in it, than I would not order one that had it. correct?? I want to change out the plastic for a Tusq. I figured it can't hurt. The guitar is mid 90's so it's time. Besides I like to tinker with all my toys. Thanks

[RonMay]

Originally Posted by NY Deadhead

Hi all. Not sure if this is the correct location. I don't claim to now what most, if not all here, now. That is why I ask a lot of questions. Sorry. So if I want to have my saddle changed, and it doesn't have a "compensation" in it, than I would not order one that had it. correct?? I want to change out the plastic for a Tusq. I figured it can't hurt. The guitar is mid 90's so it's time. Besides I like to tinker with all my toys. Thanks

I have a mid to late 60s Regal that had a worn non-compensated saddle and replaced it with a compensated one from Tusq, and there was little to no difference in the intonation. I love the sound that is better than a bone or micarta saddle makes. But that's my own preference.

Tusq makes plain saddles and you might try with that first though.
They don't cost much so buy one of each and try them out to see which one works better for your guitar.

You will most likely have to make it fit your saddle slot unless it is the same size when you order it. A good firm press fit while still being able to lift it out easily and it doesn't fall out if you turn the guitar face side down is a good fit.

Good luck and have fun.

Ron

[H165]

The difference between a fairly narrow saddle and a compensated saddle which fits into the same slot is small. If you have a very good tuner, you can see a few cents difference. However, if you have that good a tuner, you can also check to see if your original saddle needs any compensation at all, and if so, how much.

[Brucebubs]

My new Gibson Custom Historic 1957 SJ-200 comes with a non-compensated bone saddle - surprised me.

[StrumChi]

Originally Posted by Brucebubs

My new Gibson Custom Historic 1957 SJ-200 comes with a non-compensated bone saddle - surprised me.

Seems like they went all out to get the historical part right.

[Brucebubs]

Originally Posted by StrumChi

Seems like they went all out to get the historical part right.

Yes, they even left off stamping the serial number and 'Made in USA' on the back of the headstock as per the original 1957 guitars.