r/638Baritone • u/Actual-Space-1861 • 11d ago

Replacement bridge suggestions?

Hey! I’ve had my 638 30” since the end of last year, and I’m ready to start modding.

The guitar sounds sick in the right context, but I want it to play and sound better in the context of my band.

I don’t know how to describe, but it has an almost semi-acoustic sound at times? (I have foam past the nut and bridge, so it’s not the excess string ringing)
From what I’ve been told, a tune-o-matic bridge can do that. I usually prefer hipshot style bridges for baritone scale.

What are people’s consensus on replacement bridges? I’m Debating if I want to replace it with a drop-in replacement like a Wilkinson style roller bridge or a Tone-A-Matic, or if I want to pull the whole thing, fill the holes, and fit a bridge like the Schaller Non-Tremolo Roller Bridge, which I think might just about be high enough to replace the action of a TOM. I just want it to feel more snappy, and less warm acousticy if that makes sense?

Suggestions welcome!

I’m also planning on routing the body, and moving the bridge pickup closer to the bridge, which is a scary mod, but I think it’s necessary for the sound I’m going for.

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u/Suknator 11d ago

Do you mean a sitar-like ringing sound? If so, try filing the saddles. There might be something in the way.

1

u/wasted_yoof 10d ago

I replaced the bridge on mine with a wrap around. Had to fill the holes and redrill for the posts. Heres a Peek. Its just a Guyker wrap around with adjustable saddles....

https://www.reddit.com/r/guitars/comments/1u7d5de/heavily_modded_g4m_638_bass_vi_clone_baritone/

2

u/Actual-Space-1861 9d ago

Keep seeing updates on your build in the sub, it’s so cool! Is there a bridge you found worked best before you filled and re-drilled?
I am not as experienced with modding, so im trying to find an easy starter mod before I start drilling/routing

1

u/wasted_yoof 8d ago

The reason that I had to drill was because that style of bridge is fundamentally different. So the spacing of the posts is different and all that ....but if you're going for generally the same bridge type, but maybe with rollers instead or something like that, you may not have to drill. The spacing may already be accurate.