My buddy got a FCS Tele

[HomespunEffects]

A friend got a Telecaster the other day. The middle saddle is split and I’ve never seen such a thing before.

I’ve never liked the 3 barrel saddles for the reason that intonation gets wonky. This seems to be a good compromise.

 

[paisleywookiee]

I like the way PRS does it too, on the Vela:

The Fender one looks weird, but as long as it holds like that, it should work well.

 

[gearJunkie]

A friend got a Telecaster the other day. The middle saddle is split and I’ve never seen such a thing before.
View attachment 46217
I’ve never liked the 3 barrel saddles for the reason that intonation gets wonky. This seems to be a good compromise.

I would suggest he upgrade to the Gotoh In-Tune compensated saddles. They are the best way to improve the intonation on a traditional Tele 3 barrel saddle setup.

Gotoh In-Tune Compensated Saddles For Tele - StewMac

Gotoh In-tune compensated saddle sets keep the vintage look while improving intonation.

www.stewmac.com

 

[Chocol8]

They are the best way to improve the intonation on a traditional Tele 3 barrel saddle setup.

I would argue that the best way to improve a 3 barrel saddle setup is to replace it.

 

[paisleywookiee]

I would argue that the best way to improve a 3 barrel saddle setup is to replace it.

Yeah, IMO three barrel bridges are almost a "logical fallacy" in that they're an appeal to tradition, over function. Then again, that's much of the guitar world.

 

[gearJunkie]

I would argue that the best way to improve a 3 barrel saddle setup is to replace it.

I agree, but if the goal is to retain a "traditional" appearance, the Gotoh saddles are the best option.

 

[HomespunEffects]

I’m not sure he wants to “upgrade” his Fender Custom Shop guitar.

 

[la szum]

Recommendations not sought. Recommendations still given.

You go TGF!!!

 

[paisleywookiee]

Recommendations not sought. Recommendations still given.

You go TGF!!!

It's a discussion forum. We discuss things. To improve that which probably doesn't need improvement is the purest distillation of it.

 

[Chocol8]

I’m not sure he wants to “upgrade” his Fender Custom Shop guitar.

Probably not, but maybe next time he will know to order one with a functional bridge that doesn't need to be customized like a DIY hacksaw and brazing job. You know, something TGF will approve of!

 

[Eagle]

Saddles make a huge difference and brass from different manufacturers can sound very different.
My favourite is the Gotoh “ in tune” because they are and sound very good. Some of the compensated ones go too far and are just as out as straight ones. Milled saddles sound better than cast ones too.