Collectors Choice Question

[chuck dale]

I've seen pics of many of the Collectors Choice models that have the strings over the tailpiece from the Gibson factory- My question is what are the advantages or disadvantages of this setup... Thanks!

 

[guitplayer]

I hear or feel no advantage. Dis advantage for me is
the strings feel more "slinky".?

 

[Ace139]

I think the thought is more strong contact with the instrument = more sustain?

Not sure if the guitar needs to be set up to address to change or not? I've tried it on some of my R9's. I did not do a set up change, did not notice a TONE difference - agree on the "slinky" feel.

I have a "Nicky" have not top wrapped that one. Also have a JB 335 - it came top wrapped so I'm keeping it that way. Both guitars Kill !!! IMO.

 

[Tim Plains]

Just try it on one of your guitars to see how you like it, or Google "top wrap Les Paul." Countless threads on it.

 

[hydromedia]

I've seen pics of many of the Collectors Choice models that have the strings over the tailpiece from the Gibson factory- My question is what are the advantages or disadvantages of this setup... Thanks!

I've read that a top-wrapped tail piece reduces the string angle as the strings come off the bridge thus allowing 2 things to take place. 1) Allows the tailpiece to be screwed all the way down to the body, which some people claim helps improve tone, and 2) the reduced string angle helps prevent the strings from making contact with the back of the bridge behind the saddles thus allowing the bridge/saddles to be optimally setup for proper action and again, improve tone.

Someone please correct me since I'm a just newb and a pretty abysmal player besides.

Edited: of course there are countless threads on the topic. I should have known!

 

[EdwardR9]

I tried it on my 2014 R9 and liked it. i went with a bigger gauge string to cut down the slinky feeling. Pretty nice increase in sustain.

If you try it, add another ball to the string end as it goes into the tailpiece to keep them all even and the wraps off the stop bar.