Benjamin wrote:I just took a look at Babicz website and I can't actually knock the concept. I am sure it is a viable alternative, but I don't get it.
In context of my 4003 (y2k build) there are a few things that irk me. I am still running a standard bridge, which has a little bit of tail lift, but I can still get the action I want. Not long after I purchased it, I installed a new set of saddles and filed these myself, because either the factory didn't do a perfect job on string spacing, or the previous owner messed it up.
A little bit of treble pickup reassembly and new saddle slots had her lined up perfectly. I think we all know just how far out these things can be from factory, or previous mods, or age.
So I look at the Babicz and think, what?
1. No orthogonal (sideways) adjustment? We would have to assume this bridge has the perfect spacing already. What if it doesn't? My other main bass has a Hipshot B I think, which has sideways saddle barrel adjustment. Now that's a bridge!
2. Adjusting intonation requires loosening the side grub screws which are effectively JAMMING ALL THE SADDLES TOGETHER, relying purely on friction/interference to stop them from moving?!?!
Is this how it works? In that case, if I loosen the grubs, then I risk other saddles moving accidentally, or completely out of whack. What if I am clumsy and bump the bass, or tilt it while adjusting, does it have to lay absolutely flat?
So I can't play, tweak, play etc to adjust intonation based on an average of my playing heaviness to ensure it is right across the board?
If my tail lifts any more, I would probably go a V2. Honestly I don't have a problem with V1, except maybe the saddle block tilting, but I find that actually helpful - moving it a string winding or two as weather and conditions dictate, to fine tune intonation. It ain't hard to get the little screwdriver out to quickly tweak an individual string.
All that said, I never had a problem with Gibson/Epiphone 3-Point Tune-O-Matic bridges either, once you do a little fine tuning.
Am I missing something?
The one I already have on my P-Bass saw a lot of live action and I never ever had an issue. In my opinion, it stays rock solid in the most positive way. That plus the sustain increase is the main reason why I will buy one.
