Cirrus BXP intonation method / tips

RnBass · #1 10-12-2010, 03:01 PM

I am accustomed setting the intonation on fender and Gibson style bridges which have an adjustment screw to drive the saddle back and forth in a controlled fashion. The Hipshot bridge does not appear to have such an adjustment screw only a lock screw. Any tips for setting the intonation in an easy and accurate way? Extra points for pdf's and/or photos.

Thanks in advance,

ThrashMaster · #2 10-13-2010, 01:45 PM

hipshots do have intonation screws, at least all that Ive seen. Lots of ABM bridges dont though.

frankly, without making yourself some specialized tools, the only way is detune the string, move saddle, retune etc.

If you have access to a machine shop you can either 1) modify the bridge to have a proper intonation adjustment or 2) make a miniature turnbuckle type device to pushes/pulls the saddles

Steveaux · #3 10-13-2010, 08:27 PM

I use a caliper.

Measure the distance from the back of the saddle to the back of the pocket (front of the "tone bar"). Lock the caliper.

Check the intonation.

If the octave is sharp, reduce the caliper setting .005 - .010. If flat, increase the setting. Don't worry, you'll get a feel for estimating the caliper change.

Move the saddle so it sets against the caliper jaws, trapping the gauge against the back of the pocket (front of the "tone bar").

Repeat as needed.

After you get the first string in, you'll get progressively quicker.

RnBass · #4 10-15-2010, 03:22 PM

Thanks for the info. I am going to play with it this weekend.