Wraparound bridges

[T89Rex]

Hi forum. I'm currently at risk of losing a staring contest with a lovely VIP body in the showcase. The only thing staying my hand at this point is that it's routed for a Gotoh 510 wraparound bridge. I happen to think that bridge is ugly as sin, but it looks like the rout would work with something a like a Pigtail, which is a little more suited to my tastes.

I've always favoured Fender-style guitars so I have zero experience with wraparounds. Can anyone give me a little bit of info to either save my wallet or push me over the edge? Would it basically sound like a TOM/stop? Are there any common complaints about them (along the lines of Bigbsys are a pain in the arse to restring etc)? Are there particular features I should be looking to have or avoid?

Thanks.

 

[stratamania]

It is a very functional bridge as one would expect from Gotoh.

The only thing for you is the aesthetic consideration it would seem. Perhaps it would grow on you. Only you can tell.

 

[rgand]

If you really like that body and just don't want to use the Gotoh 510 wraparound bridge, call Warmoth or email them and ask what would work with that rout instead. They will know if you can substitute something else.

If you can't use anything else, you may want to wait for another body that appeals to you the same way. Alternately, order one custom made with the same finish.

 

[stultzies9]

I'm not personally aware of any other bridge that drops in to the rout, but I can say from experience it's a very good sounding bridge. It's very solid, and the studs lock into the inserts, which is a nice feature. Basically makes it one big solid piece of metal. Does it sound as good as or better than a TOM/STP? I'm not a good judge of that. All I can say is that it sound very good on my VIP.

 

[Rick]

So is it the purple dye you're looking at?

 

[T89Rex]

Thanks for the advice guys.

It is the purple dye. The figured maple tops generally aren't my thing. There are lots out there I think look amazing but there are also plenty that leave me completely cold so I'd only ever look at getting one from the showcase I can see in advance. Purple's not even a colour I'd generally think of but this one just clicks with me.

 

[pabloman]

Check out the Schroeder wraparound. Sexiest bridge out there. Pickup a set of his locking studs too.