1968 Melody Maker D Bridge

[melmelody]

Hi

I'm trying to source a replacement bar bridge for my 1968 Melody Maker D, can anyone point me in a direction where I mght get one please?

Also what is the distance in mm between the bridge adjuster screws? were the original bridges made by Gibson or did they buy them in?

Any help appreciated

Cheers

Mel

[Ryan H]

Hey Mel,

 

I own a '64 Melody Maker D myself (before they changed to the SG shape). The bridges on the original 60's Melody Makers were intonated for a Wound G string, so I quickly changed my bridge out for a modern intonatable replacement. You have a few options here.

 

StewMac offers a 60's-style, true-to-original wraparound bridge, with the Wound G intonation and all. It's very affordable too:

http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Bridges,_tailpieces/Electric_guitar,_non-trem_bridges/SG_Junior_Bridge.html

 

Gibson of course offers their upgraded version of it, with modern Plain G string intonation, but at a hefty price tag:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PTTP070

 

And TonePros is the option I went with. It doesn't have the aesthetics of the original 60's bridge, but it functions much better. It sounds fuller, you can use any strings you want with it, and it's built like a tank. And still not as pricey as Gibson's:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/accessories/tonepros-wraparound-prs-bridge-and-locking-stud-set

 

Good luck on your search.

 

For reference, the original model number for the 60's bridges was TPBR 8513. They were manufactured by Gibson.

 

-Ryan