wow this is all fine and dandy! and very good work, great sounding bridges etc., but what if someone prefers the space control? i realize that the space control bridge doesn't need to be "arched" but does anyone know of any accurate reissues in the works. the gretsch reissues use completely different materials, metals, sizes etc.
Tru-Arc Bridge Demo Sound Clips
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- Rated: 2 ↑
Aug 5, 2008 9:26 a.m. chester:
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- Rated: 47 ↑
Aug 5, 2008 10:33 a.m. Timthom62:
So, I've had some time to run the sound samples through my ipod a few times, (yes, there's an artist file on my ipod named "Proteus"), to really get a feel for the differences. I found that I liked each in its own way as they each provided some unique facet to the tone of the guitar.
What surprised me was the difference between the stock Gretsch and the BR-95. I suspect the BR-95 must be somewhat heavier than the stock since it certainly had a more 'solid' tone to it, for lack of a better term.
I also noticed some differences in your playing, Proteus. With the Tru-Arcs, you sometimes seemed to be hitting the third and fourth strings harder than you had with the stock bar. Did you find that you had to adjust your right hand technique with the tighter radius at the bridge? You seemed to adapt quickly, so I don't see it as a real issue, but I would be interested to hear your assessment of that aspect of the tighter radius bridge.
Also, has there been any progress on obtaining bases and are you still looking at offering both Rosewood and Ebony?
Thanks for the samples.
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- Rated: 212 ↑
Aug 5, 2008 10:54 a.m. Proteus:
chester, I had never considered fabricating the Space Control, as it's my least favorite Gretsch bridge. But that opinion is based on playing modern ones, which I understand – as you mention – are not built as they were back when.
So it's interesting to consider whether a Space Control built to tight specs, possibly of different materials, might be a more pleasing unit.
The threaded rod is no problem, but fabricating the other parts would be more involved than making the Bar (which has had unexpected and surprising challenges of its own). I don't see us taking the Space Control on anytime soon – but I'll mention it to the Head Fabricator, because if he takes an interest in something he'll do it even if it makes no sense.
Tt, I'm flattered that you gather my stuff together. Must be like listening to a hand-made mosaic of similar but individually varying parts. Curious.
I'm with you in liking what each of the bridges does. And I wondered if I was the only one to hear the difference between the stock bridge and the BR. The Tru-Arc sounds punchier to me, maybe more solid. Different brass alloy, I'm sure.
I hadn't noticed I was hitting the 3rd & 4th harder. It would make sense that if my hand was used to a flatter arc at the bridge and it suddenly humped up in the middle, I'd hit those strings harder. But I'm not sure my hand is that clever.
I wasn't aware of any process of adapting to the bridges at all. They just immediately felt right.
As for bridge bases, I'm making PROGress, but am not there yet. I hope to know more later this week. So far, it's looking like ebony will be more easily sourced than rosewood.
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- Rated: 47 ↑
Aug 5, 2008 8:28 p.m. Timthom62:
Proteus said: Tt, I'm flattered that you gather my stuff together. Must be like listening to a hand-made mosaic of similar but individually varying parts.
It is a bit like that; a bit of a quilt, if you will.
Don't worry though, it's not like I'm putting your poster up on my bedroom wall or anything. (Besides, I'm not ready to take down the David Cassidy and Bobby Sherman posters yet. They're dreamy...)
I have been, and remain, convinced that you're a better player than you think, but it is as a reference work that the sound samples really show their value. The "Current Voices" and "Bridges on a Jet" shootouts were incredibly helpful for Gretsch shopping and still frequently come in handy. I know that by me sharing them with other, non-GDP, friends, you've managed to sell at least two Gretsches virtually with the sound samples alone.
Heck, at this point if you did a "G Knob" vs. "G Arrow Knob" shootout, I'd bet half of us would give it a listen.
Do keep us apprised of the bridge base situation, as that's what I've been waiting for before ordering.
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 12:10 p.m. troy6120:
Every day, while playing, I actually "notice" how good this bridge has been for my DSW. I'm not so much "thinking" about it, but it makes me "notice" it.
- I've been allowed to not have to hit the bass strings so hard (as they're a bit closer to the pickup now, where they SHOULD be). This is a relief with the finger-picking. They also aren't so stiff.
- My intonation on the E and A strings is spot-freakin'-on, and the E no longer warbles on the tuner. (Anyone else have this problem?)
- The notes seem to "pop" off the guitar. Not a neccessarily a "bright" pop, but it is a bit snappier than the brass.
I'm curious as to other ways that this is affecting others who have purchased the Tru-Arcs. Weigh in, boys (and girls???). Is this not the best Gretsch upgrade since TV Jones pickups? (And the 2003 Fender thing...)
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- Rated: 13 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 12:23 p.m. sroux:
Hey Troy...
I posted in the other Tru-Arc thread, but here's a quick rundown.
I've noticed all of the things you mentioned. The string tension definately feels a little different. I figure the tension is lessened a bit on the outer strings, and this is what I'm noticing.
You are right about notes popping! There's a definite quick response that I'm noticing.
I'm not sure if I'm imagining it, but my 6120 seems to vibrate a bit differently with the aluminum bridge mounted.
Anyhow..I had some old flatwounds on right now, so I won't really experience the full potential of the bridge until I change them out. Hope to do that tonight or tommorow, and I'll report with any additional findings.
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 12:54 p.m. troy6120:
sroux said: I'm not sure if I'm imagining it, but my 6120 seems to vibrate a bit differently with the aluminum bridge mounted.
sroux, you're not imagining anything. The top almost rumbles now. I notice a major difference on the wound strings. Like hitting a "D" powerchord at the 10th fret on the E and A strings.... I can totally feel it in my picking hand's forearm. Smokin'!
We've been in the studio recording some stuff for a locally-shot independant film. The Tru-Arc is going to be in a movie..............................
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- Rated: 21 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 1:20 p.m. GentlBen:
Can you post the prices?
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- Rated: 212 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 1:46 p.m. Proteus:
Aluminum, 9.5" or 12" radius, 80.00.
Stainless or brass, either radius, 90.00.
Plus shipping and PayPal fees (if using PP).
Message me for more details.
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- Rated: 13 ↑
Aug 12, 2008 1:53 p.m. sroux:
I thought so!
The whole guitar seems to shake rattle and roll now, in a GOOD way!
I also changed out the base for the ebony base that my adjustomatic came with. It sits a slight bit higher than the bridge the stock RBB was mounted on. I went with that base because it's a bit thicker in the middle "span" between the two arched feet, and because it's quite a bit darker than the other base.
Both bases worked fine though, so I don't think anyone with a gen-u-ine Gretsch bridge base should have a problem fitting.
Oh Proteus...I like the guarantee that was writen on the packaging.
Top notch all around, sir!
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Sep 23, 2008 3:02 p.m. troy6120:
I just ordered ANOTHER Tru-Arc bridge for my 6122-1959 Nashville Classic. Now it's gonna be thick around here! I elected to stay with the brass for this guitar. Can't wait!
Hey Proteus. Did you ever consider engraving "Tru-Arc" on the bottoms of these bridges, so that in the distant future when we all die and our kids sell our guitars, people will know that they've got a bridge of TRUE EXCELLENCE installed on their vintage Gretsch?
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- Rated: 29 ↑
Sep 23, 2008 4:44 p.m. Shuie:
That's a great idea, Troy. C'mon Pro, get these bridges hallmarked.
I think a 'P' brand might be kinda chintzy, though...
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- Rated: 212 ↑
Sep 23, 2008 8:06 p.m. Proteus:
I've asked about that.
Engraving would be crazy expensive (as in time-consuming), I think. Maybe a stamp to smack with a hammer (if that can be done without deforming the opposite side).
I'm trying to find a way.
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- Rated: 59 ↑
Sep 23, 2008 8:16 p.m. Bear:
Couldn't a hard stencil be made so that it could be clipped onto the saddle and etched with a Dremel? I'm not a machinist but it might be possible.
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- Rated: 19 ↑
Sep 23, 2008 8:17 p.m. Jet-Head:
Great stuff Pro!
Just a thought - have you ever heard of a finishing process for aluminum known as "alodine"? (not to be confused with "anodize")
Alodining is a protective finishing process for aluminum that is inexpensive ($20 quart) that can be brushed on, sprayed on, or best yet, soaked on by submersion. Anodes are not required for this process.
It leaves the aluminum in a non-corrosive state and applies a golden color in the proces.
Applying such might complement the gold pups nicely.
You see alodined parts in the aerospace industry quite a bit. You can ask your machine shop about the process. I'll bet they know and can make a recommendation yea or nay.
Wonderful work here!
Thanks!
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Oct 1, 2008 4:26 p.m. troy6120:
Now, I have two Gretsch guitars, and two Tru-Arc bridges!
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- Rated: 41 ↑
Oct 1, 2008 8:17 p.m. J(esse James)D:
Hey guys, we gotta give the future "GDPer's" something to debate and look at closely
This will continue the "Gretsch History" for the future, and play havoc on eBay and buyers/sellers
Make em earn it, make them measure it, and let Proteus continue to hand polish these "machines"
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- Rated: 20 ↑
Oct 21, 2008 11:56 a.m. TwangOmatic:
Ive listened to the clips and i still can't decide between the aluminum and steel does anyone have any input that might sway me one way or another?
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Oct 23, 2008 12:21 p.m. troy6120:
TwangOmatic said: Ive listened to the clips and i still can't decide between the aluminum and steel does anyone have any input that might sway me one way or another?
Perform an "eenie-meenie-miney-moe" poll and go with your "moe". Aluminum or stainless, it'll still fit your fretboard better than the stock. You won't go wrong either way. I'd have to actually PLAY a stainless Tru-Arc to say I like it better than the aluminum one I have, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't. Take a 90 some-od-dollar leap of faith. If you don't like it, I bet you could put it in the Gretsch Garage Sale for $10 less than you bought it, and someone around here would snatch it up. It's worth $10 for you to KNOW the difference, yes? Good luck. -
- Rated: 212 ↑
Oct 23, 2008 5:26 p.m. Proteus:
Actually, you can order both and send one back for a full refund with a couple of weeks.
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- Rated: 57 ↑
Nov 13, 2008 8:24 a.m. Curt:
I will start out saying that I don't like change when it comes to my stuff. So I received the 12" brass radius Tru Arc bridge and made the switch on the old Club. The first thing I noticed is that it's way to shiny and I'm going to have to relic it. The second and most important feature is the proper radius that is a thing of beauty and it makes the guitar mechanically easier to play. I was able to lower the bridge quite a bit and didn't have to do anything with the string slots, they just fit. Not a big difference in tone between the two brass units but it has improved the sustain acoustically which lends to a woodier tone.
Well done Tim, THANKS!
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- Rated: 212 ↑
Nov 13, 2008 8:26 a.m. Proteus:
Thank YOU, Curt - good to know the Tru-Arcs have a role to play on vintage instruments as well.
And not to worry about the relic'ing - that's unplated brass, it'll dull right down for you soon enough.
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- Rated: 59 ↑
Nov 13, 2008 8:49 a.m. Bear:
Proteus,
Not to hijack your thread but I cannot find the clip you posted with the GFS Nashvilles in your Ibanez. Can you point me in the right direction?
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- Rated: 28 ↑
Nov 13, 2008 9:04 a.m. troy6120:
Hey Curt. Like Proteus said, hold off for a few weeks before beginning any relic procedures on your Tru-Arc. Mine already look perfectly worn in, like they've been on there for years. And I say this in a good way. But seriously, give it a few weeks.
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- Rated: 212 ↑
Nov 13, 2008 9:28 a.m. Proteus:
Bear, it's in the mix here: http://gretschpages.com/forum/other-guitars/gretsch-versus-clone-comparison-test/4...
And here: http://gretschpages.com/forum/modern-gretsch-guitars/the-8-guitar-tone-fest-gretsc...
