Spector Bridge questions

JimiLL · #1 02-26-2010, 10:41 PM

Im getting to finally do a full setup on my Euro 5 LX, and I've noticed the the bridge saddles sit quite high up off the bridge the way they are now. There must be between 1/4" and 3/8" between the bottom of the A-string saddle and the bridge itself.

I want to take some relief out of the neck and raise the bridge, but im worried the saddles are too high already. It almost seems as though the bridge could sit higher in the body, letting me drop the saddles.

Also, is there anyway to adjust intonation with this setup???

Thanks

NKUSigEp · #2 02-26-2010, 10:56 PM

Intonation? Yup, just loosen the set screw on the side and move each saddle to where it needs to be. Downward pressure from the string usually holds the saddle in place so it shouldn't flop around at all. Tighten the set screw back up when you're done.

Of all the Spectors I've owned, every one has had a shim underneath the bridge (came stock from the factory this way) so perhaps an employee forgot to install it or a previous owner removed one? It's an easy fix - go to a craft store or lumber yard and get some thin veneers of wood (birch is cheap and easy to work with). Cut and sand to the right size and basically just repeat until you feel like the bridge is at the right height.

JimiLL · #3 02-26-2010, 11:22 PM

Thanks Ill have to take a look when my new pre amp and strings get here.

I think Ill go down to the hardware store and get some brass stock to make one. Can anybody tell me what thickness the stock shim is??

NKUSigEp · #4 02-26-2010, 11:56 PM

Between 1-5 mm - not much at all.

mcapote · #5 02-27-2010, 04:37 AM

hmm I dont think my legend custom has a shim, and my saddles are high too. something to think about i guess.

NKUSigEp · #6 02-28-2010, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mcapote

hmm I dont think my legend custom has a shim, and my saddles are high too. something to think about i guess.

I don't think all of them have shims, but it could also be the difference in where the bass was made too.

JimiLL · #7 02-28-2010, 11:29 PM

Im gonna call my local Milll suply store and try to get a piece of 4-5mm thick brass plate and make a shim out of that. I ll let you guys know how it came out

walterw · #8 03-01-2010, 12:20 AM

i'd think 2-3mm would be plenty thick. the thing is, i've never seen a problem with spector saddles being "too high", as there's always plenty of adjustment range, and the angle doesn't get too extreme.

FunkMetalBass · #9 03-01-2010, 08:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by walterw

i'd think 2-3mm would be plenty thick. the thing is, i've never seen a problem with spector saddles being "too high", as there's always plenty of adjustment range, and the angle doesn't get too extreme.

I haven't seen it either, but when routing into the body to fit the bridge, there are bound to be issues, I guess.

I was going to replace my bridge with a heavier Hipshot (or maybe an ETS 2-piece) bridge anyway, so I guess I'll have to wait until I order it to see if it's going to need a shim as well.