Yes indeed ! When you know your stuff , you know your stuff ! John shows that in this video and is so very helpful . Also John Mann has his own bridge you can purchase and use for your upgrade on this . Little trade secrets do indeed make for a better way and now even my wife , who is an amazing rhythm player , can make her PRS Custom 24 do things we never thought possible ! Wow ! She now says this guitar stays in tune just like my vocals do ! Time passes and some things do get better !
I would like to say huge thank you to John. I believe this is the only video on RUclips properly explaining how to set up a PRS tremolo bridge. PRS webpages only mention the rule of lining up the screws so that they are level, but there’s no explanation of HOW to do it. Thanks to John I was able to safely disassemble the trem on my SE and set it up so that for the first time in years it actually works. This is a very tricky adjustment, but a lot of guitar techs do not know how to do it, and instead they set PRS trem as if it’s a Fender. Thank you once again!
haha had a tech do exactly that to my prs trem, asked for lower action so he decked the trem down to dive only, all the screws were uneven, thankfully i caught it or i could have fucked up my trem or screws, that was the last time i went to a guitar store for a setup, so worth tthe time it takes to learn to do this stuff, no one will treat your guitar with the care that you do
Thanks so much for the upload, John! I recently bought a used Mcinturff and discovered the bridge screwed all the way down, thus impeding the tremolo. There's no way I was going to figure out the 2.5mm gap without this video as a guide.
I think that just changing the trem block is 50% of the upagrade in tone. The bridge plate and saddles doesnt impart too much to the tone as the trem block
I should've done this myself after seeing this video. I paid a decent amount of money for a local repair guy to do it and...ouch. He had zero clue. Now I have to do it all over again anyway. Thanks for the tutorial.
Excellent instruction, thank you very much! To install the springs, I simply hook them in the claw and use a spare spring to pull them to the block. To risk of slipping that way
There is no full kit for PRS SE Custom 24 guitars for us lefties. Best I found was an upgrade kit that includes almost everything except the bridge plate. #1 Will there be one (full kit) made available for us lefties? #2 Is the upgrade good enough? meaning the SE bridge plate good enough or inconsequential?
Mr Mann, thank you. I bought a PRS Artist Pack Custom 22 today and the action on it was ridiculous. Using your tips I have pretty much fixed that in the space of a couple of minutes. I measured with an allen wrench, as you recommended, and found that some tool at Andertons had set the tremolo *at least* 5mm off the body. I've halved that now and it plays so much better!
@@12south31 The 2.5 spec I talk about in the video is not the space under the bridge (which should be 1/16" or 1.6mm). Please rewatch the video to understand how I use that dimension.
Just ordered this tonight for my 2015 PRS SE Custom 24. I'm very excited to install it - the reviews on this upgrade are incredibly positive. Thanks, John!
Hi John, I've just got an S2 satin Standard 22, beautiful. I'm having trouble understanding one thing - when you do the 2.5 mm thing, the edge doesn't seem to sit in the screw grooves. Is there a point where you shift them in place (maybe when you put the springs on?)? Can this damage the knife edge or will it slip in smoothly? Everything else clear but this. Many thanks.
Amazing Bridge. Did the swap out on a CE 24 I bought used that someone had wrecked the stock trem knife edge. I used the included 2.5mm to set the height and it worked fine. I will say it came out slightly lower probably around 1.14 MM and not 1.59mm (1/16). I ended up backing the screws out about another half/three-quarters and that brought it right up to 1/16. Anyway thanks for the video!
I recently bought a mint condition used 2019 PRS SE Santana Trem Single Cut from GC-SF for a crazy low price. The guitar is like-new and unused (clear plastic still on the cover plates and tuner backs) which tells me the previous owner never played it. Got it home, tuned up new strings, used the tremolo ... and the thing will not stay in tune. I've tried every other tech tip out there except the one presented here, which is to replace the stock PRS SE Patented Molded Tremolo. My question is: what's the performance and construction difference with a MannMade Tremolo for PRS SE guitars? It looks identical to the stock PRS Molded Trem. Thanks for any insight you can offer here!
I have one on each of my SE Euro special editions (2018 roasted maple neck, 2019 blasted ash top). The SE bridges feel too squishy, and the MannMade USA bridge makes them play like a guitar worth twice as much.
im curious about something. Say i follow this but find the treble side of my bridge plate (when viewed from behind) higher than my bass side. Why would this be? I figured it could be the springs but tightening or loosening makes no difference. One would think the treble side screws aren't in enough, but i followed the guide. Why would this happen? It's a prs 30th anniversary so i'd be surprised if it were a fault.
Great video. I have a PRS CE 22, 1994. Amazing Guitar, still with original bridge. Its bridge is also better than the original? Recently bought Tuner Thumb Screw - Metric to replace the tuners and had a great service, everything has arrived in time for my friend to bring me in Brazil! Thank you.
John, on the PRS website they advise putting some cardboard under the rear base of the bridge before removing the strings in order to prevent the spring tension pulling down and damaging the finish
A 2.5mm allen key was a little too big to use as a feeler gauge for a stock PRS bridge (at least on my CE24). Ended up floating about 1/8" above the body, and PRS recommends about 1/16". The problem with it being higher is even if you lower the saddles all the way, you still have an action of over 2mm at the 12th fret, which is way higher than PRS factory spec. I think I tried a 1.75mm feeler gauge to get the bridge screw height, and that was a lot closer to it ending up with a height of 1/16" off the body. But great video, you saved my PRS!
When measuring with the 2.5 allen key, that makes sense. However - isn't the bridge plate holes supposed to sit IN the slots of the screws (to create that knife edge)? That doesn't seem to occur in the close up here?
I have 4 identical strats, all with different bridges, as a test comparison. The one I recently put the 2040-0001 PRS/Mann Vibrato Bridge in now sounds the best. It was also extremely easy to fit and set up, and feels the best to play. John Mann, you are a class act all the way, thank you :)
Hello, I am using a 2017 prs ce24 model. I'm planning to install your bridge this time. Will there be any problem if I install the 6 point mounting screw you provide without additional processing? The threads of the mounting screws installed on the existing prs ce24 and yours are somewhat different.
Thank you, John, for this video. It is VERY usefull. I set up my prs bridge according to your instructions, everything works great. But I have one question - you use 2.5 mm allen key. In the end the bridge floats 1 mm above the body, but on the PRS vebsite (prsguitars.com/csc/bridges.html) it says the bridge should float 1.5 mm (1/16"). So I redid everything again with a 3 mm allen key - now the bridge floats 1.5 mm (1/16") above the body as written in PRS instructions. Question - is there a difference if I use 3 mm allen key and NOT a 2.5 mm? Is it wrong? Thank you.
Correct, the bridge should float 1/16" above the body. If 3mm worked for you great., but we have lots of success with 2.5mm. It's the final result that counts!
John, I've been waiting for this video thankyou! I'd love to see a full set up tutorial from you. My only question from this video is this: will this approach (2.5mm feeler wrench) work on a PRS Core Line Tremolo (DGT)?
Great video. I found an original PRS MIL-COM at a guitar how and had it put on my Strat but it didn't com with the correct springs. Can I get one of those little bags of little bag of hardware from you? These make a Strat better than Fender could ever imagined.
Very clear instructions, thank you very much! This may be a silly question but is it safe to remove all of the strings during a string change with this type of bridge? Thank you
Absolutely safe. All six strings exert approx 120 lbs of pull on the neck. Cutting the strings off one by one is not going to collapse , twist or damage the neck in any way.
Although I did put an allen of 2.5mm underneath to measure it, after tuning the guitar and adjust the springs for the tremolo to be parallel to the body, the tremolo seats only almost 1 mm above the body..? Any thoughts? It's a CE24 2007.
Just ordered the term upgrade kit which has block and saddles and hardware so will I have any problem with the screws I wouldn’t think so it’s going in a 2018 prs se custom 22 Semi-Hollow will the Allen key feeler gauge trick work if I’m only changing the block not the whole bridge ?do u sell any gold pickup pole screws for se thank you looking forward to my new se term upgrade kit do you or anyone suggest any other modes I recently got new locking tuners and Tusk xl nut before I found your site wish I didn’t because I love the look of your se locking tuners thank you for your wonderful product and thank Roxanne for the speedy reply to my questions I couldn’t be happier with the service
My prs se custom 22 (year 2021) has the bridge suspended, but I'd like to put it all in contact with the body (I use rarely tre tremolo and i need stability and reliability). How can I do? I have the impression the 6 screws can't go lower than now..
John Mann's Guitar Vault If you have some extra time, a video on the 2020 Classic Vibrato would still be appreciated. I installed your 6 screw trem on a Stratocaster a while back, and ordered a two point trem for my American Standard shortly thereafter. Ended up refinishing the guitar, so I’m now just getting around to attempting the installation. On the last install, you ended up being extremely helpful on the phone, so that was appreciated, as I really needed the help. Same situation is reoccurring with the two-point, I need some help. If you had videos for the installation of your different bridges, it might alleviate the stress for you of having to deal with guys like me on the phone, and might help to advertise your products.
Hi John, a technician raised the bridge a bit somehow, but when I was playing, the bridge clicked and lowered itself almost so that I can't move the tremolo arm towards the back of the guitar (there is no space for the bridge to float there, it moves only with the tremolo arm pushed forward. Can you suggest what to do pls. I don't trust the tech
This is probably way too late - but your "tech" didn't know to line up the small grooves in each bridge mounting screw. They have to be perfectly lined up, or the bridge will kinds jump out and the springs pull the bridge down to the body - that's why this guy tells you to use the 2.5mm hex key - that should get all the grooves to line up.
SE bridges are Steel, so you need Steel screws for that bridge. The MannMade USA 2000NOS, #2040 PRS/MANN bridges and the PRS Core bridges (Gen 2 & 3) are made from Brass, so you need Brass screws for those bridges.
I used this exact method from someone who linked your video as a source on my PRS CE24 and my tremolo came around 1mm from the body of the guitar and wasn't straight (it was leaning towards the body on the back). A lot better still than the stock settings with a pretty high action. I then adjusted the tremolo screws, so tremolo now sits completely straight and to be honest - i like it 1mm from the body, since the action is really low with no fret buzz and the tremolo works ok. Do you think, i should just use the 3mm key, set it to the recommended height and then lower the action on the strings after? Thank you for the awesome and informative video, it's what might just saved my PRS! :)
If you're a PRS owner installing this bridge, there's lots of (slow-paced) info here. All good. If you're a tech and already know how to deal a trem system, the only information you need from this video, is that, unlike the 6 screw Fender, the PRS mounting screws have a groove milled just under the head. The grooves have to line up precisely! That's what he's doing with the 2.5mm hex key. If the grooves don't line up, the bridge won't operate properly.
Hello! 😄 So are there no insert nuts/threaded nuts that the six mounting screws go into? The six mounting screws just screw straight into the wood, correct? Thank you so much for the video! 😁 you did an awesome job!
Hi John great vidéo! i'm sorry if you answered that before but i bought a used core PRS cu24 (2007) and the 6 screws of tremolo are really not at the same heigh just horrible. Before touching anything what do you recomend me to set it right?
I have a se Standard 24 it the bridge is not aligned it's at an angle in relationship to the neck pickup? Is there an off set w/PRS se's? Would your bridge help ? Will I have to re drill the six hole for the bridge regardless to get the gtr to stay intune? The nut is graphite i've got dressed the nut & lubed it still can't get to stay in tune after stretching the strings…? Thx
It is the same for all PRS guitars except Silver Sky and Fiore. This is the spec established by PRS Guitars. (The bridge should float 1/16" above the body and be parallel).
Hi John, I recently picked up a 2015 PRS Bernie Marsden Model, online as I wanted a wide fat neck; it looks fabulous, sounds great, but plays very stiff...I thought it had .011's on it, but they were .010's...so I put a "Hybrid set on, 9-46, and same thing, it still plays really stiff...I just ordered a graph tech nut for it, in hopes it would be a fix for it, but I was wondering if you have any suggestions to make this play easier...TY so much! Sincerely, Steve
Hi John, It was great talking and catching up with you as well! I tweaked the guitar a little more, and put a new nut on it, it seemed to make a big difference...much easier playing now, and I was able to put .010's back on it too. I'm still interested in an adjustable bridge for it, but may have to wait till next month to do that...Hope all is well...Sincerely, Steve
I know you answered this question more or less. But the 2.5mm wrench feeler method will work on a S2 stock vibrato bridge? Although I am seriously looking at upgrading to your billet version of this tremolo. Thanks for posting this - I think it is the only video covering this info on youtube!
John Mann's Guitar Vault Awesome that's great news for me. One more question sir, can the saddles hold thicker gauged strings?? For example 12-56?? Thanks!
The choice of materials used is typically for the type of tone we are trying to achieve with a particular bridge design. Brass tends to accentuate the mid-range tones while Steel accentuates the highs.
We offer Nickel, Gold, Black Nickel, and Hybrid Nickel or Gold finishes on most of our bridges. Nickel Hybrid is Nickel bridge plate with gold saddles. Gold Hybrid is gold bridge plate with nickel saddles. Similar to the 2 tone watch look...
Better tuning stability... Tone is improved... Sustain is improved... not to mention it feels better and looks better. But don't take my word for it, go on any PRS or Fender guitar forum and check out the hundreds of positive reviews!
John Mann's Guitar Vault thanks for you advice. My dealer was arguing it is for the string force compression. I then contacted PRS Europe & they stated this isn't normal & I need to get it replaced.
Yes, but if you are going to use them for a Fender bridge, order the STEEL version - store.guitarvaultusa.com/Vibrato_Bridge_Mounting_Screws_p/4009.htm
2000NOS = 1 pc red brass casting, cnc precision machined.. This is the original “Gen I” bridge for PRS. It has a bit more mid-range tones and more sustain than the PRS Gen II or Gen III bridges, due to the 1 pc construction. store.guitarvaultusa.com/PRS_NOS_Vibrato_Bridge_p/2000nos.htm 2040 = 2 pc yellow brass billet, cnc precision machined. Basically the same as the PRS Gen II bridges. store.guitarvaultusa.com/MannMade_PRS_MANN_Vibrato_Gen_II_Bridge_p/2040.htm 2059 = SE Upgrade Kit, utilizes the SE bridge plate and replaces the block, saddles, mounting screws, springs with our made in the USA brass block, brass saddles, steel screws, springs store.guitarvaultusa.com/Block_PRS_CE_SE_S2_trem_vib_brass_upgrade_p/2059.htm 2053 = Upgrade Block, replaces the SE block (steel) with our Brass block (made in USA) store.guitarvaultusa.com/Block_PRS_CE_SE_S2_trem_vib_brass_upgrade_p/2053.htm All of these are great choices !
I need some advice, I have a SE and a core custom 24. They both have stock trems. I also have a spare tremelo that is the mil-com from an 80s PRS 1 piece like in this video. What I am debating is if I should replace the 2 piece brass block trem in the core with the 1 piece Mil-Com trem, and then install the 2 piece core trem into the SE as an SE upgrade. Or,, I can just replace the SE with the Mil-Com. But I feel like the Mil-Com should go into the core under the assumption of putting the best trem in the best guitar. Anybody got a couple cents on this? I am comfortable doing the work myself.
The 2000NOS is not available in a left hand model as it is a casting. All of my other bridges are available in left hand, at no extra charge. Gold plating is an option on any bridge.
It depends on two factors - what gauge strings you're using, and how you want your bridge to float. If you want to be able to pull up on the bar to raise the pitch of the strings, then you can't have the springs too tight. It's too complicated for a RUclips comment, but if you search for "how to set up a prs tremolo" you'll find some good advice.
It's actually very simple. 1.) Tighten the claw so that the back of the trem now sits against the body. 2.) Place the 1/16" thick guitar pick included with the bridge. 3.) Tune the guitar to pitch 4.) Stand the guitar vertically - headstock pointed towards the ceiling. 5.) Lossen the claw, equally on each side, until the pick falls out from under the bridge. 6. BOOM ! the trem is now set correctly ! ~ John Mann
The SE bridge is a die vast steel unit, where as the PRS Core and MannMade bridges are precision CNC machined from Brass billet. Better tolerances for improved performance and mores sustain and mid-range tone.
FYI: the video does not warn to make sure that after installing the springs, make sure the knife edges of the bridge are sitting within the grooves of the screws. I installed my guitar strings, had them all tuned up, and was adjusting the trem claw. I put the bar in the bridge to try it out, and WHAM!! The bridge slid into the grooves with a BANG. Surely, sliding down the screws and slamming into the grooves with 120 pounds of force could not be good for the knife edges on the trem. I wish the video had a more explicit warning for this. I was aware of the possibility, but figured that since the video did not talk about this possibility, it wasn't a concern. I figured that by following the video directions exactly, such a risk would have been mitigated because the bridge would end up exactly where it should have been. I also should note that I ordered direct from John Mann and the allen wrench I received was 3mm, not 2.5mm. This would have given slightly more wiggle room for the bridge to move up and down the screws during install. Not sure why the change was made, but I am sure there was a good reason for it. The good news is that the guitar seems to stay in tune perfectly. I really hope the unit wasn't damaged, as it cost quite a bit.
Carlini ~ I am sorry you had this issue. I will add some cautions to the video. It's always good advice to review the work you have just completed before going on to the next step. This way you avoid any sunrises. ~ John Mann
I just made a comment about this. In the video (after doing the allen wrench trick) you can see that the bridge does not sit within the grooves of the screws. So how do you ensure this before the final setup?
Once the bridge plate is adjusted properly to specs, you adjust the saddles (keep them parallel to the bridge plate), following the fingerboard radius, so that strings are at a height that you are comfortable with. FYI, all guitar manufactures state on their website the string height specs Usually found in the "Support" section.
Robert, Sorry...but you clearly did something wrong here. Both myself and hundreds and hundreds of customers have successfully installed bridges using this method. Please contact me directly and I will do my best to get you setup correctly. You can find my contact info on either of my websites (www.MannMadeUSA.com or www.GuitarVaultUSA.com)
Hopefully you didnt pay for those strings. They are made by D'addario and then Paul doubles the price. Cutting those strings like that had me cringing. Lol.
Are they really made by d'addario?!?! I hated those stings a bunch of packs came with my guitar. I was about to try some d'addarios too, idk if I want to now I've been using Ernie balls for years
My prs se custom 22 (year 2021) has the bridge suspended, but I'd like to put it all in contact with the body (I use rarely tre tremolo and i need stability and reliability). How can I do? I have the impression the 6 screws can't go lower than now..
Yes indeed ! When you know your stuff , you know your stuff ! John shows that in this video and is so very helpful . Also John Mann has his own bridge you can purchase and use for your upgrade on this . Little trade secrets do indeed make for a better way and now even my wife , who is an amazing rhythm player , can make her PRS Custom 24 do things we never thought possible ! Wow ! She now says this guitar stays in tune just like my vocals do ! Time passes and some things do get better !
I would like to say huge thank you to John. I believe this is the only video on RUclips properly explaining how to set up a PRS tremolo bridge. PRS webpages only mention the rule of lining up the screws so that they are level, but there’s no explanation of HOW to do it. Thanks to John I was able to safely disassemble the trem on my SE and set it up so that for the first time in years it actually works. This is a very tricky adjustment, but a lot of guitar techs do not know how to do it, and instead they set PRS trem as if it’s a Fender. Thank you once again!
Thank you for the kind words. Enjoy our guitar!
So damn true...and I would have screwed it up otherwise.
haha had a tech do exactly that to my prs trem, asked for lower action so he decked the trem down to dive only, all the screws were uneven, thankfully i caught it or i could have fucked up my trem or screws, that was the last time i went to a guitar store for a setup, so worth tthe time it takes to learn to do this stuff, no one will treat your guitar with the care that you do
What a top video. Probably the 10th one I’ve watched to see how to set a PRS trem properly and the only one that’s any good.
The nicest people ever - such a joy to deal with - highly recommend this shop for your next purchases - subscribed John
Thanks so much for the upload, John! I recently bought a used Mcinturff and discovered the bridge screwed all the way down, thus impeding the tremolo. There's no way I was going to figure out the 2.5mm gap without this video as a guide.
Glad it helped you!
Excellent job demonstrating the proper way to install a MannMade USA Vibrato Bridge.
THANKS!
This bridge is amazing, the best update you MUST do to any SE and S2 series!
Thank you!
I think that just changing the trem block is 50% of the upagrade in tone. The bridge plate and saddles doesnt impart too much to the tone as the trem block
I should've done this myself after seeing this video. I paid a decent amount of money for a local repair guy to do it and...ouch. He had zero clue. Now I have to do it all over again anyway. Thanks for the tutorial.
Glad we could help!
Excellent instruction, thank you very much! To install the springs, I simply hook them in the claw and use a spare spring to pull them to the block. To risk of slipping that way
There is no full kit for PRS SE Custom 24 guitars for us lefties. Best I found was an upgrade kit that includes almost everything except the bridge plate. #1 Will there be one (full kit) made available for us lefties? #2 Is the upgrade good enough? meaning the SE bridge plate good enough or inconsequential?
Thank you for this video! Youre the only US made company that seems to make a PRS trem in Black! I’ll be ordering one soon!
I think I am the only company making 100% of my products in the USA. B-)
Mr Mann, thank you. I bought a PRS Artist Pack Custom 22 today and the action on it was ridiculous. Using your tips I have pretty much fixed that in the space of a couple of minutes. I measured with an allen wrench, as you recommended, and found that some tool at Andertons had set the tremolo *at least* 5mm off the body. I've halved that now and it plays so much better!
Exvellent!
Are your saddles bottomed out? Just curious because the spec of 2.5 mm is quite a bit higher than what PRS recommend which is 1.6mm or 1/16".
@@12south31 The 2.5 spec I talk about in the video is not the space under the bridge (which should be 1/16" or 1.6mm). Please rewatch the video to understand how I use that dimension.
Just ordered this tonight for my 2015 PRS SE Custom 24. I'm very excited to install it - the reviews on this upgrade are incredibly positive. Thanks, John!
Thank you so much!! I was freaking out over my PRS SE 22 Custom’s screws being all messed up! Great video 👍
Your are most welcome! Thanks for watching.
Hi John, I've just got an S2 satin Standard 22, beautiful. I'm having trouble understanding one thing - when you do the 2.5 mm thing, the edge doesn't seem to sit in the screw grooves. Is there a point where you shift them in place (maybe when you put the springs on?)? Can this damage the knife edge or will it slip in smoothly? Everything else clear but this. Many thanks.
Amazing Bridge. Did the swap out on a CE 24 I bought used that someone had wrecked the stock trem knife edge. I used the included 2.5mm to set the height and it worked fine. I will say it came out slightly lower probably around 1.14 MM and not 1.59mm (1/16). I ended up backing the screws out about another half/three-quarters and that brought it right up to 1/16. Anyway thanks for the video!
Thanks!
Thanks so much for the upload!! The 2.5 mm method is very useful!
B-)
I recently bought a mint condition used 2019 PRS SE Santana Trem Single Cut from GC-SF for a crazy low price. The guitar is like-new and unused (clear plastic still on the cover plates and tuner backs) which tells me the previous owner never played it. Got it home, tuned up new strings, used the tremolo ... and the thing will not stay in tune. I've tried every other tech tip out there except the one presented here, which is to replace the stock PRS SE Patented Molded Tremolo. My question is: what's the performance and construction difference with a MannMade Tremolo for PRS SE guitars? It looks identical to the stock PRS Molded Trem. Thanks for any insight you can offer here!
I have one on each of my SE Euro special editions (2018 roasted maple neck, 2019 blasted ash top). The SE bridges feel too squishy, and the MannMade USA bridge makes them play like a guitar worth twice as much.
im curious about something. Say i follow this but find the treble side of my bridge plate (when viewed from behind) higher than my bass side. Why would this be? I figured it could be the springs but tightening or loosening makes no difference. One would think the treble side screws aren't in enough, but i followed the guide. Why would this happen? It's a prs 30th anniversary so i'd be surprised if it were a fault.
Would it be beneficial to lubricate the bridge post screws where they make contact with the knifes edge, or should I just leave them alone?
Great video. I have a PRS CE 22, 1994. Amazing Guitar, still with original bridge. Its bridge is also better than the original? Recently bought Tuner Thumb Screw - Metric to replace the tuners and had a great service, everything has arrived in time for my friend to bring me in Brazil! Thank you.
Yes it is better... and that's not just my opinion ;-)
John, on the PRS website they advise putting some cardboard under the rear base of the bridge before removing the strings in order to prevent the spring tension pulling down and damaging the finish
Sure... you ca do that.
A 2.5mm allen key was a little too big to use as a feeler gauge for a stock PRS bridge (at least on my CE24). Ended up floating about 1/8" above the body, and PRS recommends about 1/16". The problem with it being higher is even if you lower the saddles all the way, you still have an action of over 2mm at the 12th fret, which is way higher than PRS factory spec. I think I tried a 1.75mm feeler gauge to get the bridge screw height, and that was a lot closer to it ending up with a height of 1/16" off the body.
But great video, you saved my PRS!
Really good and straightforward video. Thank you very much! I really neddded it!
You are most welcome!
When measuring with the 2.5 allen key, that makes sense. However - isn't the bridge plate holes supposed to sit IN the slots of the screws (to create that knife edge)? That doesn't seem to occur in the close up here?
Just what I needed. Thanks for sharing 🙂
I have 4 identical strats, all with different bridges, as a test comparison. The one I recently put the 2040-0001 PRS/Mann Vibrato Bridge in now sounds the best. It was also extremely easy to fit and set up, and feels the best to play. John Mann, you are a class act all the way, thank you :)
Thank you !
Hello, I am using a 2017 prs ce24 model. I'm planning to install your bridge this time. Will there be any problem if I install the 6 point mounting screw you provide without additional processing? The threads of the mounting screws installed on the existing prs ce24 and yours are somewhat different.
With these instructions and set up specs also apply to the S2 line bridge?
Thank you, John, for this video.
It is VERY usefull. I set up my prs bridge according to your instructions, everything works great.
But I have one question - you use 2.5 mm allen key. In the end the bridge floats 1 mm above the body, but on the PRS vebsite (prsguitars.com/csc/bridges.html) it says the bridge should float 1.5 mm (1/16"). So I redid everything again with a 3 mm allen key - now the bridge floats 1.5 mm (1/16") above the body as written in PRS instructions.
Question - is there a difference if I use 3 mm allen key and NOT a 2.5 mm? Is it wrong?
Thank you.
Correct, the bridge should float 1/16" above the body. If 3mm worked for you great., but we have lots of success with 2.5mm.
It's the final result that counts!
John, I've been waiting for this video thankyou! I'd love to see a full set up tutorial from you. My only question from this video is this: will this approach (2.5mm feeler wrench) work on a PRS Core Line Tremolo (DGT)?
Yes, this works will any 6 post bridge that is made by MannMade USA or PRS Guitars.
Yes!
Great video. I found an original PRS MIL-COM at a guitar how and had it put on my Strat but it didn't com with the correct springs. Can I get one of those little bags of little bag of hardware from you? These make a Strat better than Fender could ever imagined.
Sorry for the delay in replying... You can order all the parts you need here - store.guitarvaultusa.com/category_s/7028.htm
Very clear instructions, thank you very much! This may be a silly question but is it safe to remove all of the strings during a string change with this type of bridge? Thank you
Absolutely safe. All six strings exert approx 120 lbs of pull on the neck. Cutting the strings off one by one is not going to collapse , twist or damage the neck in any way.
which MannMade bridge would I get for a SE DGT and is it just a replacement or is it superior to the PRS stock one?
Although I did put an allen of 2.5mm underneath to measure it, after tuning the guitar and adjust the springs for the tremolo to be parallel to the body, the tremolo seats only almost 1 mm above the body..? Any thoughts? It's a CE24 2007.
Just ordered the term upgrade kit which has block and saddles and hardware so will I have any problem with the screws I wouldn’t think so it’s going in a 2018 prs se custom 22 Semi-Hollow will the Allen key feeler gauge trick work if I’m only changing the block not the whole bridge ?do u sell any gold pickup pole screws for se thank you looking forward to my new se term upgrade kit do you or anyone suggest any other modes I recently got new locking tuners and Tusk xl nut before I found your site wish I didn’t because I love the look of your se locking tuners thank you for your wonderful product and thank Roxanne for the speedy reply to my questions I couldn’t be happier with the service
No problem. Thanks for your purchase and support!
Yes I can supply you with gold pole screws.
My prs se custom 22 (year 2021) has the bridge suspended, but I'd like to put it all in contact with the body (I use rarely tre tremolo and i need stability and reliability). How can I do? I have the impression the 6 screws can't go lower than now..
Great video, thanks. The SE Bridge and screws has te same setup? 2.5mm allen? thanks so mucho
Yes !
No. 1.6 mm or 1/16th. Just check PRS own specs.
Any plans to make a demo of the ClassicVibrato? Or do you know of anywhere that has a demo?
Cheers guys!
yes soon!
John Mann's Guitar Vault
If you have some extra time, a video on the 2020 Classic Vibrato would still be appreciated. I installed your 6 screw trem on a Stratocaster a while back, and ordered a two point trem for my American Standard shortly thereafter. Ended up refinishing the guitar, so I’m now just getting around to attempting the installation. On the last install, you ended up being extremely helpful on the phone, so that was appreciated, as I really needed the help. Same situation is reoccurring with the two-point, I need some help. If you had videos for the installation of your different bridges, it might alleviate the stress for you of having to deal with guys like me on the phone, and might help to advertise your products.
Thank you for making this video! :)
Your are most welcome!
Hi John, a technician raised the bridge a bit somehow, but when I was playing, the bridge clicked and lowered itself almost so that I can't move the tremolo arm towards the back of the guitar (there is no space for the bridge to float there, it moves only with the tremolo arm pushed forward. Can you suggest what to do pls. I don't trust the tech
This is probably way too late - but your "tech" didn't know to line up the small grooves in each bridge mounting screw. They have to be perfectly lined up, or the bridge will kinds jump out and the springs pull the bridge down to the body - that's why this guy tells you to use the 2.5mm hex key - that should get all the grooves to line up.
So what if I just bought the upgrade kit u said not too use the se screws with your Trem is it ok too use your screws with the se Trem ?
SE bridges are Steel, so you need Steel screws for that bridge. The MannMade USA 2000NOS, #2040 PRS/MANN bridges and the PRS Core bridges (Gen 2 & 3) are made from Brass, so you need Brass screws for those bridges.
I used this exact method from someone who linked your video as a source on my PRS CE24 and my tremolo came around 1mm from the body of the guitar and wasn't straight (it was leaning towards the body on the back). A lot better still than the stock settings with a pretty high action. I then adjusted the tremolo screws, so tremolo now sits completely straight and to be honest - i like it 1mm from the body, since the action is really low with no fret buzz and the tremolo works ok. Do you think, i should just use the 3mm key, set it to the recommended height and then lower the action on the strings after? Thank you for the awesome and informative video, it's what might just saved my PRS! :)
If you're a PRS owner installing this bridge, there's lots of (slow-paced) info here. All good. If you're a tech and already know how to deal a trem system, the only information you need from this video, is that, unlike the 6 screw Fender, the PRS mounting screws have a groove milled just under the head. The grooves have to line up precisely! That's what he's doing with the 2.5mm hex key. If the grooves don't line up, the bridge won't operate properly.
Correct
Hello! 😄 So are there no insert nuts/threaded nuts that the six mounting screws go into? The six mounting screws just screw straight into the wood, correct? Thank you so much for the video! 😁 you did an awesome job!
I hope I’m using the correct terminology here to ask my question... I think they’re called insert nuts. Let me know you guys haha 😅 thank you.
Hi John great vidéo!
i'm sorry if you answered
that before but i bought a used core PRS cu24 (2007) and the 6 screws of tremolo are really not at the same heigh just horrible. Before touching anything what do you recomend me to set it right?
Chris
Congrats on your new purchase!
Start by removing the strings and then follow the video, step by step.
Contact me if you need more help.
~ John
@@Guitarvaultusa thanks a lot John ;)
@@Guitarvaultusa Hi John i probably need your Help... Following your méthod but my trem IS very high..?
I have a se Standard 24 it the bridge is not aligned it's at an angle in relationship to the neck pickup? Is there an off set w/PRS se's? Would your bridge help ? Will I have to re drill the six hole for the bridge regardless to get the gtr to stay intune? The nut is graphite i've got dressed the nut & lubed it still can't get to stay in tune after stretching the strings…? Thx
I would contact PRS Guitars customer service and discuss this issue with them Good luck.
Watchman
Thank You John Mann.
Should the height of the screws on a stock SE bridge be the same (2.5mm)? Or is the 2.5mm strictly for your bridge only?
It is the same for all PRS guitars except Silver Sky and Fiore. This is the spec established by PRS Guitars. (The bridge should float 1/16" above the body and be parallel).
Great tutorial, thanks !!!
Thanks!
Hi John, I recently picked up a 2015 PRS Bernie Marsden Model, online as I wanted a wide fat neck; it looks fabulous, sounds great, but plays very stiff...I thought it had .011's on it, but they were .010's...so I put a "Hybrid set on, 9-46, and same thing, it still plays really stiff...I just ordered a graph tech nut for it, in hopes it would be a fix for it, but I was wondering if you have any suggestions to make this play easier...TY so much! Sincerely, Steve
Steve, it was great catching up with you on the phone. Hope the guitar is working out for you. ~ John
Hi John, It was great talking and catching up with you as well! I tweaked the guitar a little more, and put a new nut on it, it seemed to make a big difference...much easier playing now, and I was able to put .010's back on it too. I'm still interested in an adjustable bridge for it, but may have to wait till next month to do that...Hope all is well...Sincerely, Steve
Forgot to mention; I just saw a "Truefire" lesson video with Robben Ford; he was playing a PRS SC 594 single cut...
I know you answered this question more or less. But the 2.5mm wrench feeler method will work on a S2 stock vibrato bridge?
Although I am seriously looking at upgrading to your billet version of this tremolo.
Thanks for posting this - I think it is the only video covering this info on youtube!
Yes It works on PRS or MannMade USA 6 post bridge installation.
How can I get a Mann made for my se custom 24? They always seem sold out
Would it be necessary to change the claw? Seems like it's a good fit already with the Mann made trem. Seems to work fine at the end as well. Thanks!!
No need to change the claw out. We include it for those doing new builds.
John Mann's Guitar Vault
Awesome that's great news for me. One more question sir, can the saddles hold thicker gauged strings?? For example 12-56?? Thanks!
Richard, The saddles can handle .060" diameter strings.
Why steel instead if brass? And how much better is it when working the trem hard? For Staying in tune thanks
The choice of materials used is typically for the type of tone we are trying to achieve with a particular bridge design. Brass tends to accentuate the mid-range tones while Steel accentuates the highs.
Went on the website and found they come in nickel and gold, but what is hybrid nickel or hybrid gold. I'm just looking for the nickel polished finish.
We offer Nickel, Gold, Black Nickel, and Hybrid Nickel or Gold finishes on most of our bridges. Nickel Hybrid is Nickel bridge plate with gold saddles. Gold Hybrid is gold bridge plate with nickel saddles. Similar to the 2 tone watch look...
Hey man was this install worth it? What exactly did you notice with the new bridge?
Better tuning stability... Tone is improved... Sustain is improved... not to mention it feels better and looks better.
But don't take my word for it, go on any PRS or Fender guitar forum and check out the hundreds of positive reviews!
Do you think this slope is normal on my PRS SE block? imgur.com/a/oxlvM
That does not look normal. You should contact PRS Guitars customer service.
John Mann's Guitar Vault thanks for you advice. My dealer was arguing it is for the string force compression. I then contacted PRS Europe & they stated this isn't normal & I need to get it replaced.
John: Is your 2040 PRS/Mann (2-piece) vibrato bridge a good upgrade for an S2 semi-hollow body? Not sure I want to wait for a 2000NOS (one-piece).
Yes it is. The 2040 is a big step above the SE/S2/CE imported bridge.
Can these notched screws be used as an upgrade to a standard 6-point trem?
Yes, but if you are going to use them for a Fender bridge, order the STEEL version - store.guitarvaultusa.com/Vibrato_Bridge_Mounting_Screws_p/4009.htm
@@Guitarvaultusa I'm *finally* getting around to installing these. Does the 2.5mm gauge apply to the process when installing with a MIM trem?
I have a 2018 prs se custom 24. Which bridge should i get ?
2000NOS = 1 pc red brass casting, cnc precision machined.. This is the original “Gen I” bridge for PRS. It has a bit more mid-range tones and more sustain than the PRS Gen II or Gen III bridges, due to the 1 pc construction.
store.guitarvaultusa.com/PRS_NOS_Vibrato_Bridge_p/2000nos.htm
2040 = 2 pc yellow brass billet, cnc precision machined. Basically the same as the PRS Gen II bridges.
store.guitarvaultusa.com/MannMade_PRS_MANN_Vibrato_Gen_II_Bridge_p/2040.htm
2059 = SE Upgrade Kit, utilizes the SE bridge plate and replaces the block, saddles, mounting screws, springs with our made in the USA brass block, brass saddles, steel screws, springs
store.guitarvaultusa.com/Block_PRS_CE_SE_S2_trem_vib_brass_upgrade_p/2059.htm
2053 = Upgrade Block, replaces the SE block (steel) with our Brass block (made in USA)
store.guitarvaultusa.com/Block_PRS_CE_SE_S2_trem_vib_brass_upgrade_p/2053.htm
All of these are great choices !
Thank you so much..🙂
I need some advice, I have a SE and a core custom 24. They both have stock trems. I also have a spare tremelo that is the mil-com from an 80s PRS 1 piece like in this video. What I am debating is if I should replace the 2 piece brass block trem in the core with the 1 piece Mil-Com trem, and then install the 2 piece core trem into the SE as an SE upgrade. Or,, I can just replace the SE with the Mil-Com. But I feel like the Mil-Com should go into the core under the assumption of putting the best trem in the best guitar. Anybody got a couple cents on this? I am comfortable doing the work myself.
I would put the Mil-Com trem into the Core guitar and take the 2 pc bridge and install it it into the SE. Just my humble opinion.... John Mann
@@Guitarvaultusa yeah, I ended going that route,, sounds great to. Thanks.
Is this bridge available left handed, and in gold color??
The 2000NOS is not available in a left hand model as it is a casting. All of my other bridges are available in left hand, at no extra charge. Gold plating is an option on any bridge.
How did you set up the springs? How much tension is required?
It depends on two factors - what gauge strings you're using, and how you want your bridge to float. If you want to be able to pull up on the bar to raise the pitch of the strings, then you can't have the springs too tight. It's too complicated for a RUclips comment, but if you search for "how to set up a prs tremolo" you'll find some good advice.
It's actually very simple.
1.) Tighten the claw so that the back of the trem now sits against the body.
2.) Place the 1/16" thick guitar pick included with the bridge.
3.) Tune the guitar to pitch
4.) Stand the guitar vertically - headstock pointed towards the ceiling.
5.) Lossen the claw, equally on each side, until the pick falls out from under the bridge.
6. BOOM ! the trem is now set correctly !
~ John Mann
how would you adjust the action if it was too high?
With PRS, you get either fret buzz or high action! If you want low action without fret buzz, then you need a Ibenez, Jackson or Music Man guitar.
So you don't have to change the claw?
Not necesary
Hi, what size is intonation saddles screws?
4-40 thread x 5/8" long
@@Guitarvaultusa Thanks
nice to see screws turn.....
exelent
Thanks
Whats the difference between those bridges?
The SE bridge is a die vast steel unit, where as the PRS Core and MannMade bridges are precision CNC machined from Brass billet. Better tolerances for improved performance and mores sustain and mid-range tone.
FYI: the video does not warn to make sure that after installing the springs, make sure the knife edges of the bridge are sitting within the grooves of the screws. I installed my guitar strings, had them all tuned up, and was adjusting the trem claw. I put the bar in the bridge to try it out, and WHAM!! The bridge slid into the grooves with a BANG. Surely, sliding down the screws and slamming into the grooves with 120 pounds of force could not be good for the knife edges on the trem. I wish the video had a more explicit warning for this. I was aware of the possibility, but figured that since the video did not talk about this possibility, it wasn't a concern. I figured that by following the video directions exactly, such a risk would have been mitigated because the bridge would end up exactly where it should have been. I also should note that I ordered direct from John Mann and the allen wrench I received was 3mm, not 2.5mm. This would have given slightly more wiggle room for the bridge to move up and down the screws during install. Not sure why the change was made, but I am sure there was a good reason for it.
The good news is that the guitar seems to stay in tune perfectly. I really hope the unit wasn't damaged, as it cost quite a bit.
Carlini ~ I am sorry you had this issue. I will add some cautions to the video.
It's always good advice to review the work you have just completed before going on to the next step.
This way you avoid any sunrises.
~ John Mann
I just made a comment about this. In the video (after doing the allen wrench trick) you can see that the bridge does not sit within the grooves of the screws. So how do you ensure this before the final setup?
no one anywhere on the internet tell me how to adjust saddle height please someone tell me
With an allen wrench in the two screws of each saddle.
Once the bridge plate is adjusted properly to specs, you adjust the saddles (keep them parallel to the bridge plate), following the fingerboard radius, so that strings are at a height that you are comfortable with. FYI, all guitar manufactures state on their website the string height specs Usually found in the "Support" section.
can i have that se bridge?
Sure! You can buy it from me at www.GuitarvaultUSA.com ;-)
Thos did not work at all. As soon as i attached the trem springs the bridge slid up to the top of the screw and marred up the knife edge. Fail
Robert, Sorry...but you clearly did something wrong here. Both myself and hundreds and hundreds of customers have successfully installed bridges using this method. Please contact me directly and I will do my best to get you setup correctly. You can find my contact info on either of my websites (www.MannMadeUSA.com or www.GuitarVaultUSA.com)
Robert Ruiz 100% chance you made this completely up and never even bought one of these bridges.
Never understood why PRS doesn’t recess their trems.
They do on Tremonti models.
Hopefully you didnt pay for those strings. They are made by D'addario and then Paul doubles the price. Cutting those strings like that had me cringing. Lol.
LoL
Are they really made by d'addario?!?! I hated those stings a bunch of packs came with my guitar. I was about to try some d'addarios too, idk if I want to now I've been using Ernie balls for years
Cheap bastard !
My prs se custom 22 (year 2021) has the bridge suspended, but I'd like to put it all in contact with the body (I use rarely tre tremolo and i need stability and reliability). How can I do? I have the impression the 6 screws can't go lower than now..
Yes you can deck the bridge. Instead of using a 2.5mm Allen wrench, use a 1mm Allen wrench .