Suggestions for Intonating Wraparound Bridge for S2?

[Stuart Kirsh]

I'm aware that PRS makes one for $200. If I have to bite the bullet and get the PRS, I will, but first, am wondering if anyone has any suggestions for a somewhat more affordable, high-quality unit. . . AllParts ? Stew Mac? Other ????? Thanks !

 

[Herr Squid]

Let's step back a second.

Are you trying to get better intonation on your S2 if it's off a bit? See https://www.prsguitars.com/index.php/support/article/prs_stoptail and note that the stoptail intonation is adjustable with the 2 little allen screws at the back of the tailpiece. This applies for SE, S2, and core. The intonation on that piece is really pretty darn good if it's properly adjusted. There's probably not much point in "upgrading" to fully adjustable saddles if you're not using extreme string gauges or wound third strings.

 

[grausch]

I second the advice of @Herr Squid. I would note that my S2 has the adjustable wraparound bridge and that it is a Core bridge. Therefore, not much point in upgrading if you already have an adjustable bridge on your S2.

If you don’t and still require one, then the Mannmade 2300 would be your best bet - https://store.guitarvaultusa.com/MannMade_USA_2300_Intonatable_Stoptail_Bridge_PR_p/2300.htm.

 

[Bill SAS 513]

Yup...If you're using "normal" 9's thru 11's, the stock bridge should get you really close, ...If not, I'd second the "Mann Made" stuff...

 

[64 Tele]

I don't have any S2's but do have a couple of SE's with the non-adjustable wrap tail bridge.
I use 10's on both and they are as close as any bridges that are adjustable.
The most recent one, I put 10's on (it was a used SE245), then read that they come with 9's.
The adjustable bridge option that the OP was referring to, I'd seen for less than the price he quoted (I won't mention due to price police)
from Mann's Guitar Vault (he actually was the originator for PRS) website.

 

[Iceman101]

The 2 allen screws will do the trick like @Herr Squid said.

 

[jxe]

my 22 came with an aftermarket bridge with adjustable saddles, pretty funny. i put the original wrap tail back on and put the other one in the case.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

Let's step back a second.

Are you trying to get better intonation on your S2 if it's off a bit? See https://www.prsguitars.com/index.php/support/article/prs_stoptail and note that the stoptail intonation is adjustable with the 2 little allen screws at the back of the tailpiece. This applies for SE, S2, and core. The intonation on that piece is really pretty darn good if it's properly adjusted. There's probably not much point in "upgrading" to fully adjustable saddles if you're not using extreme string gauges or wound third strings.

Yes, thanks; trying to get better intonation. I'd actually never noticed those tiny allen screws-- thanks for pointing them out. And no, I'm not using extreme gauges or wound G.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

I second the advice of @Herr Squid. I would note that my S2 has the adjustable wraparound bridge and that it is a Core bridge. Therefore, not much point in upgrading if you already have an adjustable bridge on your S2.

If you don’t and still require one, then the Mannmade 2300 would be your best bet -

.

Not sure what you mean by "adjustable wraparound" S2 bridge. Does it have individually adjustable saddles ? Mine does not. I will check out the link you've provided. Thanks !

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

my 22 came with an aftermarket bridge with adjustable saddles, pretty funny. i put the original wrap tail back on and put the other one in the case.

Why did you put the original back on? Did you prefer the sound or ... ?

 

[markd21]

The stock stoptail is so accurately intonated that all the guitars i have had with it - over time, I'd say 9 of them...Core, S2 ans SE - that I've never had to bother with them.

What's the problem with your intonation?

 

[jxe]

Why did you put the original back on? Did you prefer the sound or ... ?

it didn’t improve intonation in any way and it looked like this:

 

[grausch]

Not sure what you mean by "adjustable wraparound" S2 bridge. Does it have individually adjustable saddles ? Mine does not. I will check out the link you've provided. Thanks !

Yes. Some of the S2s come with a Core wraparound bridge with individually adjustable saddles. Wasn’t sure if you wanted to upgrade a non-adjustable or adjustable bridge. Suspected the former, but covered all bases.

Here is a pic of the bridge on my S2 Singlecut Standard. Not much point in upgrading this one.

 

[dogrocketp]

I’ve got an extra Schroeder chrome adjustable if you want to trade. PM me. I live in the DMV. (District, Maryland, Virginia) The only reason I’m not using it is that I’ve had whammy madness for the last two years and sold most of my stoptails.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

The stock stoptail is so accurately intonated that all the guitars i have had with it - over time, I'd say 9 of them...Core, S2 ans SE - that I've never had to bother with them.

What's the problem with your intonation?

Can't seem to get the guitar to play in tune within the first 4-5 frets. Maybe I should go for one of those special compensated nuts. I'm tempted to make a joke will refrain.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

I’ve got an extra Schroeder chrome adjustable if you want to trade. PM me. I live in the DMV. (District, Maryland, Virginia) The only reason I’m not using it is that I’ve had whammy madness for the last two years and sold most of my stoptails.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

I've only got the one guitar, so your suggestion isn't feasible, but thanks for the offer.

 

[Stuart Kirsh]

Yes. Some of the S2s come with a Core wraparound bridge with individually adjustable saddles. Wasn’t sure if you wanted to upgrade a non-adjustable or adjustable bridge. Suspected the former, but covered all bases.

Here is a pic of the bridge on my S2 Singlecut Standard. Not much point in upgrading this one.

Right-- this is just the sort I'm thinking of buying.

 

[dogrocketp]

Next question, have you had the guitar set up by a professional? I’m guessing you bought used, and the previous owner did some work that wasn’t right. Also, those compensated nuts won’t fix your problem. I use them on my archtops, which are 24 &3/4 scale, and inherently out of tune. Sounds like you need a setup more than anything. Also, which model did you get?

 

[Herr Squid]

Can't seem to get the guitar to play in tune within the first 4-5 frets.

That's really weird. Unless you have super old, thrashed strings, or the guitar is just messed up, that shouldn't be happening. The stock nut and stock stoptail should be able to be very well in tune. Fresh strings and a good setup should be all you need.