Auralex GRAMMA Review
Introduction
I purchaes a Variax 300 during the $299.99 sales at Musicians Friend but was unsatisfied with the tuners which basically would not hold tuning. For a < $300 guitar
you can't really complain though. Having locking tuners on my EBMM and Fender Strat I new they were the only way to go since they make re-stringing much easier (especially
at a gig). The Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines had me intrigued with the string cutter built in so I grabbed a set of in-line machines and proceded to install
them.
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machine Specs
- Patented Ned Steinberger design cuts excess string while guitar is tuned, eliminating need for extra string-cutting tools.
- Individual string clamps securely hold string in tuner � no need for multiple wraps around the tuning post.
- Excellent for aggressive tremolo use.
- Precision 18:1 gear ratio provides smooth, exact tuning, while virtually eliminating backlash and slippage.
- Limited lifetime guarantee.
- Available in Chrome, Black and Gold finishes
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machine Installation
Here is a quick overview on installing the tuning machines.
Tools needed. Straigh edge, 12mm box or open end wrench, small screw driver, drill.
Step 1: Remove the strings from your guitar (duh)
Step 2: Remove the low E tuning machine. Do not remove all the tuning machines at once as you will need the first 5 to help line up the new tuning machine.
Step 3: Insert the Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machine then place the washer and nut over the stem. Using the straight edge line the bottom of the Planet Waves
tuning machine with the original tuning machines. See picture. Tighten enough to hold the tuning machine in place.
Step 4: Repeat step #3 for each tuning machine.
Step 5: With straight edge still clamped to the headstock, drill starter holes for the stabilizing screws. Insert screw into each tuning machine, be careful not to
strip the screw head.
Step 6: With 12mm wrench (or deep socket) tighten each tuning machine.
This process took me about 45 minutes. Restring the guitar which will now be very easy. Simply pull the string through the tuning machine until tight then screw the
back of the tuning machine as tight as possible with only your hand strength. As you tune the guitar to pitch the tuning machine will clip the excess string.
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machine Impressions
The old tuning machines would go flat when string bending but hte 18:1 ratio on the Planet Waves makes that all but impossible. Guitar now stays on pitch and
re-stringing only took 5 minutes for all 6 strings. Highly recommended.
Planet Waves Auto Trim Tuning Machines 6 In-Line Chrome
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines/3 Per Side Chrome
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