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I am fitting a bridge to a guitar, it has a angled slot and   i know you you set it the same distance from the 12th fret as the 12th fret is from the nut, but what string do you use as your measure line, and do you measure as the "string flies" or along a line parallel with the centre line, cheers
Matt

Matt, the way I do it is take my scale (25.5) and add 1/16 to the high e and 3/16 to the low E. These measurements will need to fall right where the strings will fall as opposed to being right on the edge of the saddle. Hope that helps. Paul

Oh, and those measurements are to the front of the saddle.Pwoolson39060.6421643519

matt, the 1-12 distance being equal to the 12-saddle distance is not correct. you must incorporate extra distance as compensation to get the the instrument to play in tune. the amount of compensation will depend upon the scale length, string gauge and type, action height, fret height, playing style, etc.

compensation is usually measured on the string line if doing individual string compensation. when using a pre-slotted bridge measure on the center line of the fb to intersect a line parallel to the front edge of the bridge and through the center of the treble e position on the center of the saddle slot. the amount of compensation used generally ranges from .010" on a 25.4" scale to .125 or more on shorter scale instruments. see stew-mac's site for a compensation calculator.crazymanmichael39060.6450462963

I think we're talking .100" rather than .010", eh?

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now known around here as Pat Foster
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http://www.patfosterguitars.com

digital keyboard actuator control circuit defect rearing its ugly head again. yes, 0.10 is what was intended. thanks!

Awesome guys, as usual. thanks for your help

You've gotten some excellent advice.
If your present guitar collection includes a guitar with the same scale length (and action, string gauge) that plays in tune, you can make up a 'measuring/positioning stick' from it. For me that sort of thing is always easier than trying to add .010 or .100...or...

hey hesh, i was a math minor, but never did take a proper typing class. so the faulty keyboard activator control system is my excuse and i'm sticking to it.

john, nice idea for a simple shop made "saddlematic".

Hi again, just revisiting this thread again.

how can i measure my scale is? all i have is the frets to measure off of (this is a repair job of a smashed guitar)

cheers

Matt NZ

The scale is typically 2x(nut to 12th fret) so the saddle will be located at the scale+compensation.

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Tickle your guitar daily, and it'll tickle you back.

Tracy's centerline finder with bridge locator is a huge help too.