Musicmaster Bass Bridge replacement options

[basshead56]

Hi all,

 

Now that I've finally managed to put down my newly-acquired Am Pro 2 Jazz (amazing!!!), I am circling back to my 75 Musicmaster project.

It's still playable but rough enough to warrant the need to make some changes.

I am happy overall with the neck (needs a buff, polish and waxing, fretboard will need de-greased and oiled), tuners (will de-gunk those), pickup and a few other bits but I will definitely be needing to completely redo the tone pot, input jack and bridge.

Still debating as to whether or not I'll repaint it. A luthier in these parts is apparently very good at doing 60's and 70's Fender catalogue colours and I have always fancied the Daphne Blue look...

 

 

Anyway, looking into bridges, I have happened across two viable options:

 

1: Halon Musicmaster bridge from Greece

https://halonguitarparts.com/product/musicmaster-bass-bridge/

 

2: Albridge Musicmaster bridge from Via Ampshop in the US

https://www.ampshopbassexchange.com/product/albridge-parts-mms18-vintage-bridge-for-musicmaster-short-scale-direct-replacement/

 

Both look like excellent options.

My question would be - has anyone had experience with either provider?

I've heard great things about the AmpShop products but not-so-great things about communication, lead times and customer service.

I've emailed Halon and have had a reply from the owner, Haris, who seemed quite nice and helpful.

 

Keen to hear your thoughts 

 

 

 

 

[DF Shortscale]

The Albridge is about as good a bridge as you can find for Musicmasters, but yeah AmpShop can be tricky with shipping. If I ordered from them again, I’d pay a little extra and ask for FedEx shipping, they normally use USPS which is a diabolically unreliable service. It’s worth emailing them first. 

[ped]

Given the lack of functional difference between the two I’d go with the Halon, as he’s replied 

[basshead56]

Have decided to go with the Halon option.

Placed an order this morning for their drop in Musicmaster bridge with brass saddles and 17.5mm spacing.

 

Can't wait to see how it goes