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Hello,

I'm wondering what tuning machines you guys like to use? And let me explain why I'm asking. I've done a fair amount of searching for different styles, makes, etc... and while I've found some that I like in terms of design, I haven't found any that exactly meet what I'm going for. I prefer more of a modern design overall. So clean lines, not ornate, probably black or chrome only. Maybe wood buttons (but probably only ebony or dark wood). I've used some of the Gotoh tuners as well as Rubner.

Question: Outside of SM and LMI, where do you guys like to get tuning machines? I understand that the guitar has a lot of history in terms of style and most of the tuning machines give a nod to that style. I'm just wondering if there are lesser known but quality suppliers who have a more modern feel to them. Hopefully that makes sense. Not trying to start a holy war of design. Just wondering if I'm not seeing all the options available.

Thanks!
Brad


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Since I'm a Hipshot dealer I'm a little partial to them... I like their locking tuners in chrome, with the standard buttons.

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"Act your age, not your shoe size" - Prince

Maybe you've already seen the Schertler tuners on Stew-Mac? I've not tried them yet, but plan to soon. I think they have a nice, modern look and I've read positive comments about them by some highly reputable luthiers.

http://www.stewmac.com/Hardware_and_Par ... Knobs.html

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George :-)

Just worked on a 1936 G*bson L-12 in like new condition.... and it had very cool gold Grover open backs on it that all still worked great. Lubed those puppies up and spun them in my drill and they work great again.

I like Waverly for high end, Grover open backs and roto-matics depending on the applications. I've had good luck with Gotoh 510 "contour" tuners but hate the 18:1 and 21:1 ratios and don't have all day to twist tuners.

Lots of great tuners out here and the Stew-Mac Golden age tuners are pretty impressive too if you need a distressed patina.

On acoustics I always went for light weight and high quality open backs. On electrics some of the self-locking tuners are pretty cool and fast for string changes.

The ugliest and cheapest looking tuners that I have ever seen (and used) are the new G*bson auto tuners.... what junk.

Thanks for the feedback. I do like the look of the Schertler tuners, George. I also like these from Rubner, but maybe in the chrome with the rectangular buttons. http://www.rubnertuners.com/hauser-styl ... with-ebony

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These two are true craftsman in the field of intrument tuners:


Robson Tuners - http://www.robsontuners.com/
They offer a wide range of impeccably crafted tuners - specifgically some of thier closed gear options, with deco inspired buttons, might be headed the right direction for you. They have an open backed version that is also very clean.
Modern comapred to many tuners, but with a deep sense of architectural history.


VS Tuners - http://www.vstuners.com.br/
Victor Scatena's work is likely more ornate and delicate that you are looking for, but create a great balance of vintage inspiration with a modern touches. He makes them for many stringed instruments, but maybe not steel string.

My go-to's are Gotohs... sorry. I do love the 510's in cosmo black and gold with black buttons. I've used the Schertlers several times and love their aesthetic, but they're nowhere near as smooth as 510's. They have considerable backlash as well. I also like Waverlies and the SM Golden Age stuff for vintage replacement. For something really special, check out Rodgers and Nicola Alessi.


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Good to know! I've not heard of this before. I still plan to check them out, but will do so with a slightly more critical eye.

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George :-)

I've used four sets and they all exhibited the same looseness. Surprising, as they're I think Swiss-made (or German?). Another issue they've shared is that the string "eyelet" in the posts have sharp edges that tend to break e and G strings. So I've just gotten used to filing those down a bit. It's a shame, their low QC standards, as I doubt I'll use them any more even though I love their look.


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