Takeuchi T5 vs. Kahler 7450 bass bridge

[kurcatovium]

Which one would you recommend and why?

Takeuchi T5
- fixed string spacing (17,5 or 19 mm depending on model)
- quick release or string through body
- sturdy construction
- easy to adjust string height and intonation

Kahler 7450
- insanely adjustable (spacing about 15 - 20 mm)
- quick release only
- very solid feeling
- better if recessed into body
- adjusting might be a little tricky sometimes

 

[AutoBat]

Probably the Takeuchi only because on the bass bridge page W says they'll route for the Kahler 7450 only on the Gecko 5 bodies.
If that's what you're after then whichever floats your boat I suppose.

(note: I do not nor have I ever owned a bass)

 

[kurcatovium]

I forgot to mention it's supposed to my "dream Gecko". So yes, Kahler is an option.

 

[stubhead]

The Kahler looks awkward geometrically. It might just be the angle of the pictures, but it looks like the string is pulling the saddle up and away from the body, and the energy transfer point is mainly just the little adjustable intonation screw.

 

[Wyliee]

FYI, Kahler has changed their bridge plate dimensions and, from what I've tested, they do not match Warmoth's routing.  Expect the Kahler bridge routing option to go away on Geckos.

Your better option would be to choose from the Takeuchi or Hipshot routing options.  Warmoth has the Taekuchi bridges in stock and the Hipshots are regularly available from a number of vendors.

 

[kurcatovium]

Ah, I didn't know about different base plate on newer Kahlers. That's a bit shame, because I leaned towards it a bit. I simply like how the bridge looks and how versatile it is...
Well, it seems Takeuchi is the choice #1 now...

 

[ihavenothingprofoundtosay]

FYI, Kahler has changed their bridge plate dimensions and, from what I've tested, they do not match Warmoth's routing.  Expect the Kahler bridge routing option to go away on Geckos.

How recent is this?  Is there an exact measurement that Warmoth uses for their 7450 templates that could be compared with this one for the Kahler 7450:

(from here)

 

[tubby.twins]

How recent is this?  Is there an exact measurement that Warmoth uses for their 7450 templates that could be compared with this one for the Kahler 7450:

It's been a little while.  I bought a Gecko body in March 2010 with a Kahler bridge route.  A new Kahler bridge (purchased from Wammi World, no less) arrived around the same time, and the two weren't directly compatible.

The dimensions matter less than the angle.  I remember that the new bridge's base plate was a bit more slanted, if that makes any sense.  I eventually made things fit with a small amount of gentle woodwork on the Gecko body.  You probably couldn't see it unless I pointed it out to you.

And that will probably be my last bass with a Kahler bridge for a while. 

 

[bgavin]

I have an email conversation going with John Cochran at Warmoth about a Deluxe5 P/J build.
Evidently the TAK-5 bridge is in very short supply, as TAK is out of business.
Bummer.  I was really interested in the TAK-5 bridge, but do not see a Body Builder routing option for it.
John suggested a Hipshot A-Style, which can be had in solid brass with a chrome finish.

Hipshot is very proud of this bridge, considering the price they want for it.
I have yet to find anybody online selling at a better price, suggestions welcome.

My interest is string spacing is matching my existing Stingray SR5HH which is 0.6875" / 17.5mm spacing.

Q: is anybody using this spacing on a Deluxe5, and are they having the "falling off the edge" problem with the outer strings?