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Auralex GRAMMA Review

Date:March 11, 2007Planet Waves auto-trim
Manufacturer:Planet Waves
Author:Ned

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.

Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines install
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines install
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines install

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 6 In-Line Chrome

Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines/3 Per Side Chrome
Planet Waves Auto-Trim Tuning Machines/3 Per Side Chrome


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