Ever since the first YJM strat that i have picked up, It was always a love hate relationship with the guitar. I had tried mods on the first one but somehow could not bond with how it played. The narrow string spacing and neck attributed to the dreaded string slippage on these 70's strats. These stock bridges are a pain in the ass.
I loved the deep scallops on the YJM's. For that reason alone, I had to make the inevitable decision to dive into a bridge replacement that i was contemplating since my first YJM strat.
So here it is...
I dived into a Callaham Vintage Narrow Bridge.
Here is my verdict on the Callaham V/N Bridge.
Play-ability wise, It had certainly improved in the string slippage department. The stability of the bridge is also another plus point. Whammy usage has improved significantly. No clicks and clacks when using the tremolo. The tremolo arm fits snugly and does not wobble around like the stock tremolo. It also stays in tune nicely for a vintage spec bridge and is very quiet. Very impressive!
In the tone department, I need not say more. All the rumors and articles that you have been reading are indeed true. She now sings after the bridge transplant!
Overall, It's money well spent and i would highly recommend this "upgrade" to players who are struggling with string slippages and tuning instabilities on their beloved strat. It is easy work to do the installation if you know the in's and out's of setting up your own guitar. You just need to pick out the correct bridge for your guitar as Callaham has a few different models in their catalog. Check the specs when in doubt.
The only downside here will be it's price point. How deep are your pockets for your beloved strat? If you can afford it, i would highly recommend it.
( Left : Callaham Vintage Narrow Bridge Right: Stock Fender Bridge )
With steep prices of Artist Models, Fender should stop putting mediocre parts into their guitars.
The Callaham V/N bridge can be bought at SV Guitars.
Price: SGD$255
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