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BEAD Bridge

Razor

Razor

Sep 22, 2002
1,856
10
Dallas
#1
Any ideas/opinions on which bridges to use when using four strings with bigger strings?? I am setting up a few of my basses to use the heavier/thicker strings commonly used for a 5 string (BEAD) but using them on my 4 string. Problem is I am having difficulty in feeding the "B" string through the bridge. I have used a dremel attatchment to enlarge the hole but I really would like to find a bridge that is more "designed" for my purpose. And I bought a Quann BaddAss II and looking at the holes I feel quite sure theres no way I can enlarge it enough to accomodate a larger string without digging into the intonation screw hole...
Confused you yet?:hmm:
 
#2
You may just need to order the saddles with the groove already cut for the string.


Like this?
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Check here for the correct style.

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Treena
 
#3
No, actually I mean the "loading hole" at the very rear of the bridge. The hole you first feed the string into before it rests on the saddle. I've never been one accused of being able to explain myself so I do appologize.
 
#4
Hi Razor, You might look at the Wilkinson Bridges. I have one on my four string jazz converted to BEAD and one on my 5 string jazz. They show up on ebay all the time. Both bridges lined up perfectly with the Fender screw holes(no drilling required). They are top loading and adjustable side to side. I prefer the ones with the little nipples that you slip the string eye over when you install strings.
Did you ever get your truss rod nut loose? BTW, I'm a displaced Cajun living in S. Texas. Maybe one day we can just take over Texas (Ha). Geaux Tigers.
 
#5
Originally posted by Razor
And I bought a Quann BaddAss II and looking at the holes I feel quite sure theres no way I can enlarge it enough to accomodate a larger string without digging into the intonation screw hole...
Click to expand...

Hey buddy. I have the same problem with the Harris (which has a BAII). I tried using a .126 B and there was no way it would fit. On my MIM with the stock bridge, I run a .130 tuned BEAD and it fits perfectly. Maybe you need a cheap-o MIM bridge.

I'll trade ya for your Quan ;)
 
#6
Originally posted by Gander
Hi Razor, You might look at the Wilkinson Bridges. I have one on my four string jazz converted to BEAD and one on my 5 string jazz. They show up on ebay all the time. Both bridges lined up perfectly with the Fender screw holes(no drilling required). They are top loading and adjustable side to side. I prefer the ones with the little nipples that you slip the string eye over when you install strings.
Did you ever get your truss rod nut loose? BTW, I'm a displaced Cajun living in S. Texas. Maybe one day we can just take over Texas (Ha). Geaux Tigers.
Click to expand...

I think I am gonna have to drop the money on a top loader and I think I am gonna try a Style A Hipshot...pricey but if it doesn't work then I know I can throw it on one of my 4's. Thanks for the tip though on the Wilkinson...I willtry one of those also. Truss rod head is semi-stripped and I have to be very careful turning it to not strip it any more...thanks goddness it's a cheapy neck because a Warmoth will be in the works shortly. Wherebouts in cajun-ville you from? I ask all these barbeque lovers around here to go see a game in death valley....they just give me this dumbfounded look. Go figure.:hmm: :D
 
#7
Originally posted by stubi19
Hey buddy. I have the same problem with the Harris (which has a BAII). I tried using a .126 B and there was no way it would fit. On my MIM with the stock bridge, I run a .130 tuned BEAD and it fits perfectly. Maybe you need a cheap-o MIM bridge.

I'll trade ya for your Quan ;)
Click to expand...

I bet you would............I bet you would.:smug:
 
#8
Originally posted by Razor
No, actually I mean the "loading hole" at the very rear of the bridge. The hole you first feed the string into before it rests on the saddle. I've never been one accused of being able to explain myself so I do appologize.
Click to expand...

My apologies!

I would also suggest trying the Wilkinson Bridges.Try [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

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Treena
 
#9
Originally posted by Treena Foster
My apologies!

I would also suggest trying the Wilkinson Bridges.Try [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

Invalid Link Removed
Treena
Click to expand...

My sincere thanks to everyone for the assistance! I am definately going to look into the Wilkinson bridge. Anyone have any good pictures of the Wilkinson bridge in question? Also...any reason to think a Wilkinson bridge with a set of Schaller tuners wouldn't be adequate in for keeping a BEAD strung 4 string in good tune and intonation? Thanks again everyone!:D
 
#10
Stu...to elaborate on the MIM bridge aspect. I first tried this BEAD thing with an Essex bass I had laying around just to see how it would do. This particular bass has a typical Fender style bridge and I had to dremel out the loading hole behind the saddle to facilitate the larger string. I know I am probably concerned about nothing and that a decent top loader will work I just don't think dremeling on a bridge is good for me to be doing.:D
(Wait until I post the before/after pics of the Spector that had two soapbars until I routed a P in the neck soapbar position..:rolleyes: Thank God for blank pickguard material)
 
#12
Originally posted by Razor
Stu... your box is full with PM's...I tried to send you a reply but no dice. Empty your mailbox you hoser!
Click to expand...

:p .

When I first tried to string the Harris BEAD, and noticed the B didn't fit, my wife's suggestion of "drill it out" just didn't seem right. The MIM bridge, however, fit without a hitch. :hmm: I guess I'm just luckier than you ;) .

Sorry, I can't comment on the Wilkinson or the Hipshot (although I did just open the store up to Hipshot products, now I just need to order stuff :bassist: )
 

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