ABR-1 Bridge On a USA Gibson®?

The ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge was the only adjustable Bridge used on stoptail equipped Gibson guitars from 1957-1974. In 1974 Gibson introduced the Nashville Bridge. Since then, the ABR-1 has predominantly been installed on the Custom Shop and Historic models, and the Nashville on the USA line. For a detailed understanding of the 2 bridges see my prior blog post, What Is the Difference Between the Different Bridge Types

In 2017, Gibson started using an ABR-1 on it’s USA Models, most notably the very popular Les Paul Traditional. As of this blog post, I see that Gibson is fitting an ABR-1 on models in both the “Original Collection” and “Modern Collection”, not only Les Paul, but also the SG and ES models.

The first thing to know it that that your ABR-1 guitar bridge is the same one used on any other Gibson ABR-1. The difference is how your bridge mounts to the guitar.

Faber® Has Multiple Upgrade Solutions

The Faber® ABRH Bridge from our collection of “ABR-’59” bridges. The ABRH is a simple, non locking, lightweight drop on replacement bridge. that uses your existing integrated Post / Thumb Wheels. This bridge eliminates the rattling often associated the with factory ABR-1 with a saddle screw retaining wire. No special skills or tools required.

Faber® Tone-Lock™ Locking Bridge. has the added benefits exclusive “No Gap” technology. Offered as a standalone replacement bridge, and in our popular Tone-Lock™ Master Kit, To use a Tone-Lock™ Bridge with a USA Gibson with a “New ABR-1” system requires changing your bridge posts. Faber® has three types of conversion posts for “New ” ABR-1″, and I explain each in detail so you can choose the best one for your situation.

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