I have a relatively new Standard Stratocaster, about a year old. When I first got it, the bridge springs were loose enough that there was a large gap between the bridge and the body. I discovered it when I tried to use the whammy bar and found pushing on the bar did nothing; the bridge was already at the limit of travel. I went by Fender's setup guide, and set it with a 1/8" gap, so the bridge was floating. I just took the guitar in to a shop for a setup since it never had one, and the guy cranked the springs so the bridge is now flat against the body. Is there a "right" way, or preferred way to set it? I don't use the whammy bar much, and the guy at the shop reasoned that not having the bridge floating makes it easier to tune. No argument there, I just wondered what's preferred; floating bridge or flat against the body?

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My gear:

Hot Rod Deluxe
1975 Vibro Champ
G-DEC 3 Thirty
Kramer XL III
Standard Stratocaster
Oscar Schmidt acoustic

Hi sparkydave,

I prefer my Strat bridges decked (flush to body), with the trem claw screws tightened down, and five springs so that the bridge does not move with string bends. The tight springs give a little reverb sound also, which is a nice addition to the tone of the guitar. A decked bridge has better tuning stability, rock-solid so-to-speak. If you don't use the whammy, the decked bridge is a very good option. I do think that the tech should have consulted you before making a change like that though. But, there is no "right way" it's all personal preference.

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---> "The amp should be SWITCHED OFF AND UNPLUGGED before you do this!" <---

Por favor, disculpe mi español, no se llega a la práctica con mucha frecuencia.

Hi Dave. As you may assume its really a matter of preference. I float mine because on the occasion I do use the tremelo I like to have the 1 step up option on mine. It can just as easily be accomplished by bending the individual string. You can also get some pretty neat warbling effects this way ala "The Shadows" or Jeff Beck. Floating the tremelo does make tuning and intonation a little dicier but not impossible once you learn to do it. The way your "guy" setup the guitar still gives you the divebomb option. Grounding the tremelo also lends to more sustain on the note but that can just as easily be accomplished thru a compressor/sustainer. On a personal note your "guy " should have asked your preference and explained the different options to you before setting it up his way.

+1, exactly. I float mine so I can get a true vibrato (up and down around the note). Maybe you like yours floating, maybe you want it decked. But your guy should have asked you how you want your guitar.

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Jim Bordner
Gravity Music - www.gravitymusic.com
Composer, producer, Egnater Artist