SUMMARY OF CUSTOMER REVIEWS FOR GOTOH COMPENSATED BRASS SADDLES
Gotoh compensated brass saddles have received high praise from guitar enthusiasts, particularly those with Telecaster-style guitars, for their significant improvements in intonation, tone, and overall playability. Below is a summary of the key insights gathered from customer reviews.
1. IMPROVED INTONATION
1.1. Customers consistently report that these saddles improve intonation compared to stock or older models.
1.2. The compensation design effectively resolves tuning issues and string spacing flaws.
1.3. The option to flip the height adjustment screws is appreciated, providing more flexibility in setting up the guitar.
2. TONE ENHANCEMENT
2.1. Many users noticed a brighter tone, adding that classic Telecaster “snap” and “twang.”
2.2. Those transitioning from vintage soft brass saddles report a snappier and more defined sound, which most consider a positive upgrade.
2.3. For players who prefer a softer, vintage tone, the change may feel lateral but with added clarity and definition.
3. COMFORT AND BUILD QUALITY
3.1. The design is praised for its comfortable feel, especially compared to the sharp edges of traditional vintage screws.
3.2. The slotted design, along with softer Allen screws, ensures a gentler feel on the palm, making it more comfortable for longer playing sessions.
3.3. Fit and installation are straightforward, with most reviewers confirming that these saddles fit seamlessly into Telecaster models without any modifications.
4. MINOR ISSUES
4.1. A few users mentioned that the adjustment screws could be slightly too long, protruding a bit after adjustments.
4.2. Some found creative solutions, like flipping screws, to achieve a better fit and ensure proper intonation.
4.3. Certain customers created hybrid setups by mixing these saddles with titanium for a unique tonal blend.
5. OVERALL SATISFACTION
5.1. Most users find these saddles a precious upgrade, especially for improving intonation and sound clarity.
5.2. They are highly recommended for use with Bigsby-equipped guitars because they make perfect intonation easy.
5.3. Overall, they provide a noticeable improvement in tone and playability, making them an excellent addition for any Telecaster owner.
CONCLUSION
In summary, Gotoh compensated brass saddles are a top choice for players looking to upgrade their Telecaster guitars. They enhance intonation, brighten the tone, and provide a comfortable playing experience. Despite minor issues with screw length, they remain a highly recommended upgrade for anyone seeking to optimize their guitar’s performance.
R. Sullivan –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2019
A SIGNIFICANT improvement over the old compensated design…!!!
I used either the Joe Barden or Vintique (Jay Monterose) compensated brass saddles for years, but this new design is superior. It has to do with the “take-off” point – the angle of the old compensated saddles put the strings perilously close to the openings for the height adjusting screws; however, these saddles lay straight across, and the intonation compensation is designed into the saddles, thus eliminating the string-spacing flaw of the previous design. Callaham compensated saddles have a similar design – either one is an improvement, but I like these a little better.
I actually went even further and got the Gotoh Titanium saddles as well and made a Hybrid set – used one of the Titaniums for the shared E and A-string saddle and the Brass for the other two. Get a nice snap and twang from the Titanium…!!!
Jake –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2017
Intonation problems fixed.
Really fixed my intonation issues. Not quite as beefy as the originals. The 3 long adjustment screws are a bit too long and stick up a bit far when I adjusted them. Not so far that it is obstructing or looks bad, Just an observation. Had to flip the middle one over and run the 2 height screws in the other way to properly adjust, but it’s nice that they are reversible and gave me that needed option. I would recommend them.
JOSEPH C. MULLINS II –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in the United States on July 12, 2019
Great product
Easy to install on my Harley Benton
Stephen Fessler –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in the United States on December 28, 2019
Great Saddles!
My classic vibe 50s tele is now intonated so much better with these! I would buy again. They fit right into the ashtray with zero modifications.
Rich H. –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2017
Five Stars
Intonation is spot on now.
Mark –
Taken from Amazom.com customer.
Reviewed in Canada on November 2, 2019
Every American or Mexican telecaster should have this on from the factory!
The grooves in the barrel saddles hold the strings exactly where they need to be so Internation always holds the same. They sound as good or better than the original fender saddles. 10/10