Hi Simon! That's a really great question, I haven't tried 7s but I'll make some educated guesses!SimonReeve wrote: ↑Wed Oct 30, 2024 12:47 pmAnyone have experience with using thinner strings with a Tuffset? I currently use 7-52s thanks to New Standard Tuning and a hand injury, so I was curious as to wether the Tuffset would be as tetchy as traditional offset bridges in regards to string tension and gauge used.
Firstly, the challenge is whether the downward pressure of the strings pushing into the saddle slots generates enough friction for the strings to grip the saddles effectively enough.
"Easiest" way to bump this up would be to shim the neck and raise the bridge pretty much as far as far as is comfortable, that would be the low-hanging fruit if you haven't tried it.
The string slots are at 60° so it's a bit grippier than a 90° string slot on a Mustang bridge for example, and being milled stainless steel it's naturally less slippery than the chrome plating you see on most bridges now.
One of the reasons vintage Jazzmaster / Jaguar bridges perform better is due to the steel (or corroded) surface of the threaded saddles, they do a better job of gripping than a new bridge.
I hope that helps, perhaps others can pitch on with more direct experience! Cheers
Dan