Tired of your 7-string guitar going out of tune all the time?Locking tuners can help! These handy little devices clamp down on your strings, preventing them from slipping and keeping your guitar in tune for longer.
Editor’s Note: 7-string guitar locking tuners are an essential upgrade for any serious guitarist. Not only do they keep your guitar in tune, but they also make it easier to restring and change tunings.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you choose the best 7-string guitar locking tuners for your needs. We’ll cover the different types of locking tuners available, the benefits of using them, and our top picks for the best models on the market.
Key Differences Between Locking and Non-Locking Tuners
| Feature | Locking Tuners | Non-Locking Tuners |
|---|---|---|
| String Retention | Clamps down on strings, preventing slippage | Relies on friction to hold strings in place |
| Tuning Stability | Keeps guitar in tune for longer periods | More prone to going out of tune, especially with heavy use |
| Ease of Use | Easier to restring and change tunings | Can be more difficult to restring |
| Cost | Typically more expensive than non-locking tuners | Less expensive than locking tuners |
Main Article Topics
- Types of 7-String Guitar Locking Tuners
- Benefits of Using 7-String Guitar Locking Tuners
- Our Top Picks for the Best 7-String Guitar Locking Tuners
- How to Install 7-String Guitar Locking Tuners
- Tips for Using 7-String Guitar Locking Tuners
1. Type
When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want traditional locking tuners or drop-in locking tuners. Traditional locking tuners require you to drill new holes in your guitar’s headstock, while drop-in locking tuners can be installed without any drilling.
- Traditional locking tuners are the more traditional option, and they offer a number of advantages. They are typically more durable than drop-in locking tuners, and they can be installed on any guitar, regardless of the headstock shape. However, traditional locking tuners require you to drill new holes in your guitar’s headstock, which can be a daunting task for some people.
- Drop-in locking tuners are a newer option, and they offer a number of advantages over traditional locking tuners. They are easier to install, and they do not require you to drill any new holes in your guitar’s headstock. However, drop-in locking tuners are not as durable as traditional locking tuners, and they may not be compatible with all guitars.
Ultimately, the best type of locking tuner for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most durable option, then traditional locking tuners are the way to go. However, if you are looking for an easier to install option, then drop-in locking tuners may be a better choice.
2. Material
The material of your 7 string guitar locking tuners is an important consideration, as it will affect the durability, weight, and cost of the tuners. Steel locking tuners are more durable than aluminum locking tuners, but they are also heavier. Aluminum locking tuners are lighter weight than steel locking tuners, but they are not as durable. Ultimately, the best material for your 7 string guitar locking tuners will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Durability: Steel locking tuners are more durable than aluminum locking tuners. This is because steel is a harder material than aluminum. Steel locking tuners are less likely to bend or break, and they will last longer than aluminum locking tuners.
- Weight: Aluminum locking tuners are lighter weight than steel locking tuners. This is because aluminum is a lighter material than steel. Aluminum locking tuners will not add as much weight to your guitar as steel locking tuners.
- Cost: Steel locking tuners are typically less expensive than aluminum locking tuners. This is because steel is a less expensive material than aluminum.
In addition to the material, you should also consider the gear ratio, locking mechanism, and brand of the locking tuners when making your decision. By considering all of these factors, you can choose the best 7 string guitar locking tuners for your needs and budget.
3. Gear ratio
The gear ratio of a locking tuner is an important consideration when choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners. A higher gear ratio makes it easier to tune your guitar, but it can also make it more difficult to fine-tune your intonation. Conversely, a lower gear ratio makes it more difficult to tune your guitar, but it can also make it easier to fine-tune your intonation.
- Tuning stability: A higher gear ratio can help to improve the tuning stability of your guitar. This is because a higher gear ratio means that there are more contact points between the tuning peg and the worm gear. This increased contact area helps to prevent the tuning peg from slipping, which can lead to your guitar going out of tune.
- Tuning accuracy: A lower gear ratio can help to improve the tuning accuracy of your guitar. This is because a lower gear ratio means that there is less play between the tuning peg and the worm gear. This reduced play helps to ensure that the tuning peg is always in the correct position, which can lead to more accurate tuning.
- Ease of use: A higher gear ratio can make it easier to tune your guitar, especially if you have large hands or if you are not used to tuning guitars. This is because a higher gear ratio means that you do not have to turn the tuning peg as many times to bring the string up to pitch.
- Intonation: A lower gear ratio can make it easier to fine-tune the intonation of your guitar. This is because a lower gear ratio means that you have more control over the position of the tuning peg. This increased control can help you to ensure that the string is in the correct position on the saddle, which can lead to better intonation.
Ultimately, the best gear ratio for your 7 string guitar locking tuners will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a s
et of locking tuners that will make it easy to tune your guitar and keep it in tune, then a higher gear ratio is a good option. However, if you are looking for a set of locking tuners that will give you more control over the intonation of your guitar, then a lower gear ratio is a better option.
4. Locking mechanism
The locking mechanism is an important part of any locking tuner, as it is responsible for keeping the string in place. There are a variety of different locking mechanisms available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Hex screws are the most common type of locking mechanism. They are simple to use and very secure. However, they can be difficult to adjust, especially if you have large fingers.
- Lever clamps are another popular type of locking mechanism. They are easy to use and can be adjusted quickly and easily. However, they are not as secure as hex screws.
- Cam locks are the most secure type of locking mechanism. They are difficult to open accidentally, and they provide a very strong hold on the string. However, they can be more difficult to use and adjust than other types of locking mechanisms.
When choosing a locking tuner, it is important to consider the type of locking mechanism that you want. If you are looking for a secure and easy-to-use locking tuner, then hex screws are a good option. If you are looking for a locking tuner that is easy to adjust, then lever clamps are a good option. And if you are looking for the most secure locking tuner available, then cam locks are the best choice.
5. String gauge
String gauge is an important consideration when choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners. The string gauge refers to the thickness of the strings, and it is measured in thousandths of an inch. The thicker the string, the higher the string gauge.
Locking tuners are designed to work with specific string gauges. This is because the locking mechanism needs to be able to securely hold the string in place. If the string gauge is too thin or too thick, the locking mechanism may not be able to hold the string securely, which can lead to the string slipping out of the tuner.
When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, it is important to choose tuners that are compatible with the string gauge you use. If you are not sure what string gauge you use, you can consult with a guitar technician or refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for your guitar.
Using locking tuners that are compatible with the string gauge you use will help to ensure that your guitar stays in tune and that the strings do not slip out of the tuners.
6. Practical Significance
Using locking tuners that are compatible with the string gauge you use can have a number of benefits, including:
- Improved tuning stability: Locking tuners can help to improve the tuning stability of your guitar. This is because the locking mechanism prevents the strings from slipping out of the tuners, which can lead to the guitar going out of tune.
- Reduced string breakage: Locking tuners can also help to reduce string breakage. This is because the locking mechanism secures the strings in place, which prevents them from stretching or breaking.
- Easier restringing: Locking tuners can make it easier to restring your guitar. This is because the locking mechanism makes it easy to remove and replace the strings.
7. Conclusion
Choosing the right 7 string guitar locking tuners for your needs is important for ensuring that your guitar stays in tune and that the strings do not slip out of the tuners. Be sure to choose locking tuners that are compatible with the string gauge you use.
8. Brand
When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, it is important to consider the brand. The brand of a locking tuner can tell you a lot about the quality of the tuner, the features it offers, and the price you can expect to pay.
- Quality: The brand of a locking tuner is often a good indicator of the quality of the tuner. Well-known brands like Schaller, Hipshot, and Sperzel are known for producing high-quality locking tuners that are durable and reliable.
- Features: The brand of a locking tuner can also tell you about the features that the tuner offers. Some brands offer locking tuners with a variety of features, such as different gear ratios, locking mechanisms, and string gauges.
- Price: The brand of a locking tuner can also affect the price you can expect to pay. Well-known brands tend to charge more for their locking tuners than lesser-known brands.
When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, it is important to weigh the factors of quality, features, and price. By considering these factors, you can choose the best locking tuners for your needs and budget.
9. Price
The price of 7 string guitar locking tuners can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of tuner, the material it is made from, the gear ratio, the locking mechanism, and the brand. Here is a breakdown of the different factors that can affect the price of 7 string guitar locking tuners:
- Type: The type of locking tuner is one of the most important factors that will affect the price. Traditional locking tuners require you to drill new holes in your guitar’s headstock, while drop-in locking tuners can be installed without any drilling. Drop-in locking tuners are typically more expensive than traditional locking tuners.
- Material: The material of the locking tuner is another important factor that will affect the price. Steel locking tuners are more durable than aluminum locking tuners, but they are also more expensive. Aluminum locking tuners are lighter weight than steel locking tuners, but they are not as durable.
- Gear ratio: The gear ratio of the locking tuner is also a factor that will affect the price. A higher gear ratio makes it easier to tune your guitar, but it can also make it more difficult to fine-tune your intonation. A lower gear ratio makes it more difficult to tune your guitar, but it can also make it easier to fine-tune your intonation.
- Locking mechanism: The locking mechanism of the locking tuner is another factor that will affect the price. There are a variety of different locking mechanisms available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common locking mechanisms include hex screws, lever clamps, and cam locks. Hex scre
ws are the most common type of locking mechanism, and they are typically the least expensive. Lever clamps are another popular type of locking mechanism, and they are typically more expensive than hex screws. Cam locks are the most secure type of locking mechanism, and they are typically the most expensive. - Brand: The brand of the locking tuner is also a factor that will affect the price. Well-known brands like Schaller, Hipshot, and Sperzel typically charge more for their locking tuners than lesser-known brands.
When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, it is important to consider the factors that will affect the price. By considering these factors, you can choose the best locking tuners for your needs and budget.
10. Installation
When it comes to installing 7 string guitar locking tuners, there are two main options: you can either do it yourself or hire a professional guitar tech. If you’re handy and have some experience working on guitars, you may be able to install the locking tuners yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
- DIY installation
If you decide to install the locking tuners yourself, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right tools. You’ll also need to be careful not to damage the guitar or the locking tuners during the installation process.
- Professional installation
If you’re not comfortable installing the locking tuners yourself, you can hire a professional guitar tech to do it for you. This is a good option if you want to make sure that the locking tuners are installed correctly and safely.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to install the locking tuners yourself or hire a professional is up to you. If you’re handy and have some experience working on guitars, you may be able to save some money by doing it yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
FAQs about 7 String Guitar Locking Tuners
7 string guitar locking tuners are a popular upgrade for guitarists who want to improve the tuning stability of their instrument. They are easy to install and use, and they can make a big difference in the way your guitar sounds and plays.
Question 1: What are the benefits of using 7 string guitar locking tuners?
Answer: 7 string guitar locking tuners offer a number of benefits, including improved tuning stability, reduced string breakage, and easier restringing.
Question 2: How do 7 string guitar locking tuners work?
Answer: 7 string guitar locking tuners work by clamping down on the strings, preventing them from slipping out of the tuner. This helps to keep your guitar in tune, even when you are playing aggressively.
Question 3: Are 7 string guitar locking tuners difficult to install?
Answer: 7 string guitar locking tuners are easy to install. They can be installed by a professional guitar tech or by a do-it-yourselfer with some basic tools.
Question 4: How much do 7 string guitar locking tuners cost?
Answer: 7 string guitar locking tuners can range in price from $50 to $200 per set. The price will vary depending on the brand, the materials used, and the features offered.
Question 5: What are the best 7 string guitar locking tuners?
Answer: The best 7 string guitar locking tuners are the ones that meet your individual needs and preferences. Some of the most popular brands include Schaller, Hipshot, and Sperzel.
Question 6: How do I choose the right 7 string guitar locking tuners for me?
Answer: When choosing 7 string guitar locking tuners, you should consider the following factors: the type of tuner, the material, the gear ratio, the locking mechanism, the string gauge, the brand, and the price.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought
7 string guitar locking tuners are a great way to improve the tuning stability, reduce string breakage, and make restringing easier. They are easy to install and use, and they can make a big difference in the way your guitar sounds and plays.
Transition to the next article section
Now that you know more about 7 string guitar locking tuners, you can make an informed decision about whether or not they are right for you.
7 String Guitar Locking Tuners Tips
7 string guitar locking tuners are a great way to improve the tuning stability of your guitar, reduce string breakage, and make restringing easier. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your 7 string guitar locking tuners:
Tip 1: Choose the right locking tuners for your guitar. There are many different types of 7 string guitar locking tuners available, so it is important to choose the ones that are right for your guitar. Consider the type of guitar you have, the string gauge you use, and your budget.
Tip 2: Install the locking tuners correctly. It is important to install the locking tuners correctly in order to ensure that they work properly. If you are not comfortable installing the locking tuners yourself, you can take your guitar to a professional guitar tech.
Tip 3: Use the locking tuners properly. Once the locking tuners are installed, it is important to use them properly. Be sure to tighten the locking screws securely, and do not overtighten them.
Tip 4: Keep the locking tuners clean. Over time, the locking tuners can become dirty and dusty. It is important to keep them clean in order to ensure that they work properly. You can clean the locking tuners with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner.
Tip 5: Replace the locking tuners when necessary. Locking tuners will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. If you notice that your locking tuners are not working properly, it is time to replace them.
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your 7 string guitar locking tuners.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits
7 string guitar locking tuners can improve the tuning stability of your guitar, reduce string breakage, and make restringing easier. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your 7 string guitar locking tuners.
Transition to the article’s conclusion
Now that you know how to choose, install, use, and maintain 7 string guitar locking tuners, you can enjoy the benefits of improved tuning stability, reduced string breakage, and easier restringing.
Conclusion
7 string guitar locking tuners are a great way to improve the tuning stability of your guitar, reduce string breakage, and make restringing easier. They are easy to install and use, and they can make a big difference in the way your guitar sounds and plays.
If you are looking for a way to improve the performance of your 7 string guitar, then locking tuners are a great option. They are a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can make a big difference.
