Ray Ross Saddle-Less Bridge as saddles

Discussion in 'Hardware, Setup & Repair [BG]' started by Tomer.N.T, Aug 8, 2021.

  1. Tomer.N.T

    Tomer.N.T

    Dec 6, 2010
    Hello friends,

    I have this idea that the Ray Ross saddle-less bridge could work as a really cool 2-piece or string-through-body saddle. If you flip it so the intonation screws face the neck, there should be enough clearance to have a good enough break angle for the strings.
    The only question is if the bridge's string holes will provide a sharp enough break to avoid buzzing.

    I just love the design of the bridge, but really hating on the look of the bearings just sitting there (might be related to me being a sucker for string-through bodies).

    What are your thoughts?
    Is there anybody with a RR saddle-less that can test my idea?

    Thanks in advance,
    Tomer
     
  2. bench

    bench

    Dec 28, 2007
    Germany
    Not to p&#@ on your parade, but if you want my opinion: first: it would look horrible, second: it would be a rather unelegant version of a string through, third: the breaking point would have a sharp edge prone to snap the strings... As i said: opinion...
     
    MattZilla likes this.
  3. MattZilla

    MattZilla

    Jun 26, 2013
    CNY
    It wouldn’t take much work at all for a luthier who’s comfortable with metal work or a machinist who’s a guitar/bass player (one out of six machinists) to modify the posts into saddles.

    Depending on how high the strings have to be for your bass, you might want to set your string holes waaaay back behind the bridge to have that angle a bit subdued.

    You’d probably be better off with a tailpiece instead of string through, but then you’re getting into the territory of just getting a Warwick bridge & tailpiece.

    You wouldn’t even need to flip the orientation of the base.

    I think it’s the best use of that bridge. Go for it!
     
    Last edited: Aug 8, 2021
  4. Wasn't the whole point of that bridge to eliminate the break angle?
     
    96tbird likes this.
  5. 2saddleslab

    2saddleslab Supporting Member

    May 30, 2003
    Kentucky
    There are enough available string thru bridge options, why reinvent the wheel?

    Having said that, I love to tinker and if you want to take the leap, have at it and good luck!
     
    funkinbottom likes this.
  6. 96tbird

    96tbird PLEASE STAND BY

    If you want a string through just select a bridge that has saddles designed to have a break angle over them. The Ross bridge will not provide a stable witness point, it will be at the back of the TUBES and the string will likely rattle inside the tube because the speaking length is passing through the tube.

    Don’t waste your time trying, rather just use a bridge with defined witness point saddles.

    Hipshot D style would give you a similar look and proper saddles too.
     
    Last edited: Aug 8, 2021
    funkinbottom likes this.
  7. funkinbottom

    funkinbottom Gold Supporting Member

    Apr 23, 2006
    Northern CA.
    Yeah, I think if you're using the RR bridge, probably best off using as deigned.

    The Hipshot D for string through is a good look for a bridge. Not mine but here's one.

    d_bridge_only_3.jpg
     
    Last edited: Feb 22, 2022