Bigsby on my Studio

[bgood]

Hi,

I've been noticing alot of Bigsby's on Gibson guitars lately so I wonder - can an existing standard LP bridge configuration be modded to accomodate a Bigsby - seems like it would be just pulling the tail and studs out and installing but I'm no tech.

Also, are these fairly stable or am I asking for tuning issues and other problems. Do they stay in tune if you break a string?

Thanks

 

[lure555]

I had my tech install one on my Classic a few years ago. The B7 model is perfect for LPs.

 

[badform]

I've got a B7 ordered for my '93 Studio. Black finish Bigsby for a black hardware Studio Lite. There's no reason why it can't work.

 

[lure555]

I forgot to mention that my tech did pull out the tailpiece studs and put small metal discs over the holes. I don't remember if she told me if she filled the holes. I did notice a little more tension on the strings and the weight does not help my already bottom-heavy guitar. As with any vibrato, tuning can be an issue. I think I'm going to finally go back and have her finish the job... locking turners (the heavier the better for balance) and a graphite nut.

 

[cherrick]

Hi,

...can an existing standard LP bridge configuration be modded to accomodate a Bigsby ...
Also, are these fairly stable or am I asking for tuning issues and other problems. Do they stay in tune if you break a string?

Thanks

Model B7. +1 here. No, you'll not inherit tuning issues, although stringing is a bit more of a pain in the butt.

The mod is straight forward, and you need to decide how you'll deal with the holes left after you remove the tail piece studs.

You will find that the new angle the strings make in approaching the bridge from the B7 is more sharp, which adds tension, and this is a good thing. I like it.

 

[StSpider]

my experience is:

You need a very good setup.

Also, it's not "suggestable" on every Les Paul.

Mine couldn't be mounted on the top of the body and I had to put wooden pieces under it to avoid the strings touching the bridge. I didn't look bad, but the vibrato function was limitated, and I really felt like this way it was sucking away "something" from my guitar tone.

I ended up removing it, at's not that big of a deal and the holes don't bother me - it's a studio, and a workhorse, not a beauty to keep closet-perfect.

So, my suggestion is: do a simulation to see if - just putting the bigsby on top of the guitar without drilling any hole - it fits you setup, bridge height, whatever. If you do, go for it. You'd better put graphtech saddles and have the nut working GREAT if you like your guitar to stay in tune, but looks wonderful and adds some usefulness.

 

[Leña_Costoso]

Schaller roller bridge.... makes it work (and fits right onto the Nashville bridge bushings - same threads and spacing).

The 5/16-24 threads for the stop bar bushings can be plugged/hidden several ways. Mouser Electronics has some plugs for plugging chassis holes that work perfectly. They're black plastic, slightly domed on top but low profile, and "snap" into the threaded opening. Can be removed by carefully prying, or just stabbin' em. Either way they always get @#$@#'d up when you take em out.