lclyman Posted March 29, 2009 Share Posted March 29, 2009 Hi all, I want to replace the bridge pins in my '06 AJ... Are they a specific size or will any standard pin fit..? Also can I install am under-saddle pickup on the AJ..? I've heard conflicting info on this.. Thanks, Larry Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
asmith9509 Posted March 29, 2009 Share Posted March 29, 2009 Gibson bridge pins are funky. I tried standard ones in my 08 J45, they didn't fit properly. I had to take exact measurements with an accurate set of calipers and have a custom set made. The good news is that the new ones fit better than the factory set, and I think they actually improved the sustain slightly (although it may be my imagination). They definitely look better than those crappy plastic ones. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Taylor Player Posted March 29, 2009 Share Posted March 29, 2009 I ordered size 2A double inlay bone pins from Bob Colosi at Guitarsaddles.com Click for the Best pins & saddles in the world! and they fit perfectly. As for a UST, my luthier/tech at the Podium said no go on that due to the open ended saddle. I had a K & K Mini Western installed by him instead and LOVE IT!!! The cost was under $200 for the pickup and professional install. It is a passive pickup (no battery required inside your guitar) with 3 transducers that are glued on by the bridge underneath the sound board. I have an external LR Baggs PARA DI that I use as a preamp although the K & K Mini is pretty hot even without the preamp if I just plug in direct to my Genz Benz Shendoah amp. The K & K has the most natural sound and reproduces the tone of my AJ perfectly. Also great for top tapping and amplifiying the soundboard as well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ballcorner Posted March 29, 2009 Share Posted March 29, 2009 Yes, size 2A should fit perfectly. I also recommend the transducers like a KandK Mini Western versus the under saddle pickups. If you do venture into the under saddle pickups, make sure you keep your factory original saddle and have a new one made for the pickup installation - tusq is a good material for that. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Taylor Player Posted March 29, 2009 Share Posted March 29, 2009 Unfortunately you just plain can't use a UST with the AJ's open ended bridge so something like the K & K is needed. Don't worry though, the K & K sounds better than any UST I have heard. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ballcorner Posted March 30, 2009 Share Posted March 30, 2009 Unfortunately you just plain can't use a UST with the AJ's open ended bridge so something like the K & K is needed. Don't worry though' date=' the K & K sounds better than any UST I have heard. [/quote'] A UST can be installed in an AJ. It requires using adhesive to hold the pickup in place - and the right adhesive can actually lead to excellent contact - then a notch has to be fashioned into the underside of the saddle. It is tricky work for a patient and experienced luthier, but it can be done. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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