Anthem in a Martin with "long drop-in saddle"

[Tonedog]

I've got a question about installing an anthem (element) in a Martin that has the "long drop-in saddle".

In a guitar like this, should the Element run the entire span of the saddle slot, or just under the strings?

Thanks,
Tonedog.

[Caleb_Elling]

Hey Tonedog,
The Element should perform best if the pickup runs about 1/4"-1/2" beyond the strings on either side. Going beyond that isn't necessary, and doesn't really give any noticeable benefit.

[Tonedog]

Hey Tonedog,
The Element should perform best if the pickup runs about 1/4"-1/2" beyond the strings on either side. Going beyond that isn't necessary, and doesn't really give any noticeable benefit.

Thanks Caleb, I didn't know if it would provide more stability under the saddle if it ran the length of the whole slot. On a long saddle there will be an inch or more of saddle on each side of the pickup that is not supported, if that makes sense.

Thanks,
Greg

[Caleb_Elling]

I know what you mean. I've done installs on that kind of saddle before. It takes a bit of extra work, but what I usually do is remove about .015" from under the middle of the saddle, like a notch for the pickup to sit under. I make the notch about 1/2"-3/4" wider than the string spacing (centered), leaving the ends of the saddle untouched.

That gives the saddle enough pressure to press down on the pickup, but makes the ends look closer to flush with the top of the bridge. A strip of sandpaper the width of the notch you want to make is an easy way to do it evenly, as long as you can keep the saddle perfectly upright while sanding.

The saddle not making hard contact with the bridge isn't usually a problem for the pickup.

[Tonedog]

I know what you mean. I've done installs on that kind of saddle before. It takes a bit of extra work, but what I usually do is remove about .015" from under the middle of the saddle, like a notch for the pickup to sit under. I make the notch about 1/2"-3/4" wider than the string spacing (centered), leaving the ends of the saddle untouched.

That gives the saddle enough pressure to press down on the pickup, but makes the ends look closer to flush with the top of the bridge. A strip of sandpaper the width of the notch you want to make is an easy way to do it evenly, as long as you can keep the saddle perfectly upright while sanding.

The saddle not making hard contact with the bridge isn't usually a problem for the pickup.

Perfect, thanks!

Greg