2016 Gibson R7 LP Bridge Replacement

[dughaze]

Just picked up an R7 and I would like to replace the bridge with a bridge that the string saddles will not fall out when the string breaks or is replaced. I can see where popping a string on stage and then the saddle falling out could be a real problem. Any recommendations?

 

[windjamma]

Look for an older abr-1 with the wire, which stops the saddles dropping out, maybe.

 

[Geetarpicker]

If you are handy you can fabricate a retaining wire with a guitar string, that will wrap around the bottom of the bridge. I’ve made a few over the years using a pair of needle nose pliers. Though Gibson bridges that have wires also have two holes added for the ends of the retainer wire, it’s possible to bend a wire that reaches around the bottom of the bridge with no need for the small retainer holes. I have two vintage Gibson guitars where I fabricated retainer wires that look and function well, and even look totally stock unless you flip the bridge upside down and look closely. Yep, buying a new bridge is easier!

 

[Tim Plains]

I don't think that saddles on Gibson's newer bridges are anywhere near loose enough that they would fall out.

Guys hated the retaining wire when Gibson used it and would tear it out using a drop of nail polish remover to keep the saddles in place. Try that, just obviously put a piece of towel paper under the bridge if it's still on the guitar if you do.

 

[dughaze]

Look for an older abr-1 with the wire, which stops the saddles dropping out, maybe.

Some years ago my first LP was an Agile LP copy and it had a wire across those saddles....

 

[dughaze]

If you are handy you can fabricate a retaining wire with a guitar string, that will wrap around the bottom of the bridge. I’ve made a few over the years using a pair of needle nose pliers. Though Gibson bridges that have wires also have two holes added for the ends of the retainer wire, it’s possible to bend a wire that reaches around the bottom of the bridge with no need for the small retainer holes. I have two vintage Gibson guitars where I fabricated retainer wires that look and function well, and even look totally stock unless you flip the bridge upside down and look closely. Yep, buying a new bridge is easier!

great suggestion.... thanks

 

[dughaze]

I don't think that saddles on Gibson's newer bridges are anywhere near loose enough that they would fall out.

Guys hated the retaining wire when Gibson used it and would tear it out using a drop of nail polish remover to keep the saddles in place. Try that, just obviously put a piece of towel paper under the bridge if it's still on the guitar if you do.

A saddle fell out when I cut the string off for a change. I was like wtf.... But damn the guitar is the best guitar I've ever played / owned so it is all cool. My luck, the retaining wire would rattle. I've had a few LP's with no retaining wire so I will check that avenue out I guess. Someone suggested a replacement bridge from Sweetwater might work, not sure. People have to be dealing with this but all the tips are cool.

 

[agquake]

Just picked up an R7 and I would like to replace the bridge with a bridge that the string saddles will not fall out when the string breaks or is replaced. I can see where popping a string on stage and then the saddle falling out could be a real problem. Any recommendations?

American Made Wired ABR-1 Tune-o-matic Bridge (Nickel)

High quality machined and plated wired ABR-1 bridge for Gibson USA guitars. Made in the USA! Historically correct original 50's Gibson tune-o-matic with the wire retainer. *American made thumb wheels and posts are sold separately (SKU # R1PTW509). The ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge was the brainchild...

www.mojotone.com

 

[datguytim]

I've played LPs for over 40 years - had dozens & still have a half dozen. Some with retaining wire, some without. My point: I have never had a saddle fall out whe changing strings on any of them. Whether I changed them or my tech did. This is with 40 years of gigging, recording, and touring. Just something to consider.

 

[AllmanFan]

Tonepros are a good option for a vintage ABR-1 wire replacement.

But I would suggest keeping the bridge and adding a small dab of super glue on the screw head after intonation. Holds fantastic. No vibration. And you keep the original bridge. Glue can easily be removed with an exacto knife or even a toothpick. This is what I do and IMO the historic bridges are a huge contributor to the tone. More so than anything else I've changed on the guitar (besides pickups).

 

[Drew816]

https://faberusa.com/product-category/faber-bridges/

Huge tone improvement, great design. My '08 Classic went from okay to prominent and present with just the Faber bridge and tailpiece swap. Noting "vintage" looking, I could care less; they really freakin work!

Good luck!