Just curious on how you load your strings. If you're using Flats...how do you load them? I've heard top loading is the way to go, but I've heard different things from different people. How is the Lakland bridge with top-loading and how do you think it alters it's tone?
I've done it both ways and can hear absolutely no difference. I load through the body on both my Celinder and Lakland... just because it's kind of cool If you prefer strings that don't come in a long enough version (either total string length or the way the taper sits on the saddle for taper wound or exposed core strings), you won't be giving anything up in tone, tension, etc. by going 'through the bridge' versus 'through the body' IME.
Though I don't own a Lakland, I have the option on a P. I have chosen the bridge only because it reduces the angle of the string over the saddle. I like to think it's less tension but can't be sure.I'd bet it decreases the chance of breakage at the saddle though.
"Common knowledge" has it that flats don't like the more severe break angle over the saddle when strung through the body. On my (ex) 55-94, I tried loading Thomastik Infeld Jazz Flats through the body. Two things: 1. There was no audible difference in tone when compared to strings through the bridge only. 2. The TI strings were fine. Other flats, I don't know how well they handle the angle if they're strung through the body, but that was my experience.
I load through body just because I found strings long enough and the bass came that way. No use changing it if it works good for me although I have no proof that it would be different if I didnt string it that way.
Done both, heard/felt/saw/prophesied/smelt no difference. I've had flats on a P for over a year now, strung through the body because I have no choice, and even with the EXXXTREME ANGLE!!! I've dealt with no detriment.
Agreed with all the previous posts, I hear very no difference either way. I've strung my JO4 up with flats through the top load.
I don't load through the body as I always forget to look for strings made for 35" scale. Standard strings are too short on my 55-02 if I string throught the body.
The only reason to go through body is if you have very low saddle heights and need to get some extra downward pressure on them.
I've always gone through the body, no idea why. If it's true that it would mean more tension, then i'm all for it. I want my strings as tight as possible.
+1....Same with me except in my case I use Sadowsky Flats and have no problem either through body or top loaded... Peace, T
Depends on strings. TI-flats are the only flats, I'll string thru-body. D'Adarrio half-rounds DR-Low-Riders. Get thru-body. Ken Smith Compressiors, Top load.
I may be imagining this but... Although I hear no tonal difference, IMHE thru-body seems to eliminate string rattle at the bridge especially with lighter gauge strings. Now that rattle is not hearable through amp but is annoying nonetheless. Again, this may just be my imagination.