Callaham strat saddles too bright?

Lebarque

Mine are anyway! If I remember correctly, the materials used are different to the norm. I'm sure someone can chime in and explain. Anyway, can anyone suggest quality replacement saddles? I'd rather not stump up for the Raw Vintage, although I've got their springs which are great.

Kebabkid

If no joy here, call Charlie Chandler at CCGX as he's familiar with the Callaham stuff (sells it) and he can tell you what else is out there or what your options might be - Tel: 020 8973 -1441

I have the Callaham Trem/bridge system on my MIM Strat that Charlie fitted and it certainly has more zing and sustain than a standard Fender system, but it's not excessively bright.

Funkfingers

Which exact model of Stratocaster will any replacements be expected to fit?

Philly_Q

I don't know how much they'll change the tone relative to the Callahams, but Highwood saddles are great.  @FelineGuitars stock them.

http://www.highwood-guitarparts.com/

clarkydaz

you are hearing the famous stainless steel 'zing'. The raw vintage and even fender saddles will give you your tone back

tone1

Yep.. I found a Callaham very bright and punchy.. Changed back eventually 

stonevibe

I put KTS titanium saddles on my Callaham bridge, works for me.

CasperCaster

They are steel (not stainless) but harder than other saddles, and have a reputation for being bright. Raw Vintage and Highwood are supposed to be more mellow. I like the brightness on my RW board Strat, but a touch to bright on my Maple neck Strat.

Funkfingers

clarkydaz said:

you are hearing the famous stainless steel 'zing'. 

This also afflicts some Fender Deluxe American Stratocasters and Telecasters. 

guitarfishbay

Yes, I went back to stick saddles on my guitar. Really did not like the extra brightness as my guitar was already fairly bright.

Lebarque

Yeh, my strat is alder/maple and is quite bright, so the Callahams are too much. I had not heard of the Highwoods, so will snag some of them I think, bearing in mind they're almost half the price of Raw Vintage. Thanks for the tip, chaps.