Gotoh 12-string bridge compatibility with other bridge "routes"

[u.9]

Just curious if a body drilled for other flat-mount bridges will take a Gotoh 12-string bridge without any or too much filling and redrilling? I see a lot of bodies in the Showcase drilled for Hipshot Hardtail and Strat fixed bridge but few 12-string bodies in woods/shapes I want.

 

[Don O]

Here’s how they drill a 12 string body for the Gotoh 12 string bridge. 5 mounting screws and 6 thru holes.

 

[mayfly]

I think it's actually the same route as a flat top strat hard-tail. The secret is only half of the strings pass through the body; the rest are top mounted.

 

[stratamania]

I think it's actually the same route as a flat top strat hard-tail. The secret is only half of the strings pass through the body; the rest are top mounted.

It's a different rout. There is a difference to the six holes. On the Strat hard tail, the six holes follow a “line” perpendicular to the body centre line. On the Gotoh 12 string the six holes are slanted at an angle.

 

[J-Bones]

It's a different rout. There is a difference to the six holes. On the Strat hard tail, the six holes follow a “line” perpendicular to the body centre line. On the Gotoh 12 string the six holes are slanted at an angle.

Correct. Not only are the string holes are staggered, the space between even the closest string holes and the 3 rear mounting holes is larger than 6-string Strat flatmounts.

Compare:

https://warmoth.com/media/wysiwyg/bridge-rout-vintage-strat-flatmount.jpg

https://warmoth.com/media/wysiwyg/bridge-rout-12-string.jpg

 

[mayfly]

weeel i'll be damned. I even own guitars with both and never noticed!

 

[u.9]

Thanks for the input everyone! After also referencing bridge specs/diagrams, it is indeed looking less worthwhile though totally doable. A fill and redrill would certainly work, and half the evidence would be covered up by the bridge plate but still visible on the back unless going with an opaque finish, some masterful woodworking, or some other creative solution (like those bottom string ferrule plates).

 

[u.9]

Ok, so some new Screaming Deals posted and I want to bite! A strat body with only the tremolo cavity routed... with some modification for the string-thru ferrules, I could mount the Gotoh bridge.

But, I haven't positioned a fixed bridge since my first guitar 30+ years ago. Since this is a 12-string and intonation is even more crucial AND a pickguard would be required (top-routed body), any experienced advice???

Where's the best index point or should I just measure the scale length from the nut? Should the saddles be mid-travel to allow for back AND forward adjustment? Flame wars erupted on another forum over this!