Callaham ABR-1 Gets Nylon Saddles.
This post will show that nylon saddles can be fitted onto the Callaham ABR-1 replica bridge. I personally prefer nylon over brass, steel, etc. Of course, saddles are just a part of the equation that contribute to tone. It's the synergy of every part that touches the strings - including fingers and pick - that influence the outcome. I heard that nylon saddles and nuts were tone suckers. I call BS now that I've experienced the result.
With that out of the way...
I ordered a set of nylon saddles from a prominent online distributor. My choice for the ABR-1 style was 'with wire' or 'without wire'. As you may be aware, Bill Callaham produces superb quality, highly engineered hardware with very tight tolerances. I knew it would be a challenge to get standard nylon saddles on one of his bridges.
Summary? With patience and detailed crafting, the saddles fit nicely. And the tone, coupled with an ivory nut and aluminum tailpiece, is magnificent! Still only marginally different than the steel saddles previously installed, as well as some nickel plated brass saddles that these nylon saddles replaced. No loss of any of the endearing attributes Gibsons are known for.
I also performed this swap on another Callaham ABR-1 that resides on my 1961 Gretsch 6118 and 2012 Replica Gibson 1955 Les Paul Custom Black Beauty. I love it.
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