Graph Tech tele saddles

[LarryR]

Does any one have experience with the Graph Tech 6 barrel tele saddles? I am wondering what the tone diff is between their Tusq saddles and the IOS style?
Any opinions expressed on these saddles would be greatly appreciated.
LarryR

[swingin guitarman]

I have used the Tusq, GraphTech, steel, and brass saddles on my Teles. The GraphTech saddles are a good product, but you will notice a tonal difference compared to the other types of saddles. I would describe the GraphTech saddles as sounding a little less bright, with a less sharp string attack. Note sustain was very good.

I preferred the GraphTech saddles on my '52 Tele with the stock pickups or Seymour Duncan '54 pickups. I preferred the smoother attack. Eventually, I settled on Fralin Blues Specials in my Tele (had them for about a year). I changed back to the original brass saddles because they seemed to better complement the sound of the Fralin pickups.

Unfortunately, it's difficult to say exactly how the GraphTech saddles will sound in YOUR guitar, with your pickups, etc.. With most guitars it's a combination of factors that effect the sound and playability. On Teles with bright sounding pickups I think the GraphTechs would sound good. If you have a Tele with darker sounding single coils or humbuckers you may want to consider the brass or steel saddles as an alternative.

[LarryR]

for the info. Could you maybe describe the difference in the Tusq vs their regular graphtech saddles? Are the Tusq brighter?
LarryR

[Nick Fanis]

the tusq ones are brighter.I've been using Graph Tech saddles for a few years now and I am VERY satisfied with them.All my guitars have them and they sound fuller and better than the original saddles.NO BROKEN STRINGS!!

[LarryR]

for the info Nick.I am going to get the tusq.
I'll report back as soon as I get the guitar put back together.
Larry