Gotoh GE1996T vs Floyd Rose Special
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- Опубликовано: 8 июл 2024
- In this video I share my experience swapping out the Floyd Rose Special in my 2012 Jackson KVXMG with a Gotoh GE1996T. If you're thinking about making this upgrade you'll want to watch the whole video. I know it's kinda long, but I wanted to be as thorough as possible.
Intro (specs, pros and cons, rationale): 0:00-8:55
Gotoh Demo (feedback, dives, string dumps): 8:55-13:40
My opinion on the Gotoh: 13:40-16:40
Floyd Rose Special Demo (feedback, dives, string dumps): 16:40-22:10
Wrap-up (Gotoh dimensions, cost, FR Original?): 22:10-end
Link to the Gotoh Tremolo:
g-gotoh.com/product/ge1996t/?...
Link to Floyd Rose Special:
floydrose.com/products/frts?v...
Link to Floyd Rose Original:
floydrose.com/products/frto?v... 
Видеоклипы
Set up procedure used:
1. Remove old strings. Clean and oil fretboard.
2. Put on new strings. Tune to pitch. Stretch and repeat.
3. Roughly adjust spring tension to level tremolo. Tune and stretch strings.
4. Adjust neck relief if needed. Tune and stretch strings.
5. Double check spring tension to ensure that the tremolo is parallel to the body.
6. Check intonation.
7. Make fine adjustments if needed. I do this over a number of days until I'm satisfied with the set up.
hi Mike, i had encounter the exact same tunning stability issue u had stated. i had tried trem setter, Gotoh , Schaller and even Floyd rose orginal, mess up with the stud insert everything u could think of. Finally i found the problem is on the locking nut. Try check if the locking nut is moving when u push or pull the arm. In my case the screws that screws the nut into the guitar neck was not tight enough. Yes, just that 2 stupid screws. OK now u might be thinking who doesnt know that? but from my painful experience, ive learned the screws needs to be tighten down very tight, like VERY VERY VERY VERY tight. I couldn't figure it out until i bought a new set of screw driver which it match the screws head better. i spent almost $1000 to fix it and when im about to throw my guitar into garbage bin and set it on fire, a $5 screwdriver from Walmart ends the disaster.
Lastly a little tip for u, if the floyd rose had been abused, the woods that holds the screws from the locking nut against the guitar neck might striped out. So u might need to fill those holes with hard woods like maple and redrill the holes for them. i know it has been 2 years since ur video and u might already sold the guitar but i just want to share this. Hopefully no ones gonna waste their money and buying all kinds of unnecessary expensive aftermarket parts to get their floyd rose staying in tune.
It’s the problem with tuning stability (ie, it not returning to perfect pitch after using the bar) is almost definitely down to the studs. If the studs are worn, it won’t be letting the bridge come back to absolute zero point, throwing off the tuning (especially if the posts have been turned, to adjust the action, whilst the bridge is under tension). It could also be the studs aren’t put in perfectly from the factory; if they’re slightly out of whack, the geometry will be off and it won’t return to zero point. The Gotoh pivot posts are matched in steel strength to the baseplate so one won’t wear the other one out.
The tuning stability could also be the nut - if the clamping blocks on the nut are grooved from strings, that could let the strings move in the nut, throwing off the tuning. It could also be as simple as the nut not screwed down tightly enough (don’t over tighten, it’s easy to break those screws).
The Gotoh by all most accounts is a very stable bridge, and is a huge upgrade over a FR special. The Special does have a steel base plate but it’s not the same quality of steel that the FR Original uses, and it’s not heat treated in the same way. The saddles are complete garbage.
Regarding the string lock screws and room in the cavity, you can use shorter screws - check the length of the Gotoh ones to the FR ones - if the screws on the FR are shorter you can use those, just check the thread is the same.
FYI the string lock screws on the Gotoh can be replaced with shorter ones, in case you run out of room for intonation. The stud/anchor really makes a difference in tuning stability and sustain, really worth doing the upgrade. I have the Gotoh in 3 different BC Rich's that came stock and another that I upgraded, they stay in tune for months.
thanks for the tip!
Where do you buy the shorter screws
The noiseless feature of the coated springs is in regards to playing notes, not when using the trem. With regular springs, playing a note causes them to resonate. With noiseless springs (coated, foam inserts, or both), it greatly reduces the resonance. If your trem is squeaky when using it, you're probably hearing the knife edges squeaking against the posts, which you would just want to add some kind of lubricant to.
Thankyou this video was really helpful!!
My pleasure. Thanks for commenting.
Love your channel, dude. Thanks for the great videos. I have bought shorter intonation screws from ebay to solve the very problem you mention. Leave the studs in the body. Makes little difference.
Thanks for the compliments! Appreciate the tips! Did you get Gotoh saddle screws or FR? Are they interchangeable?
Im about ready to buy a Gotoh FR and it's good to hear about potential issues. Overall Gotoh FR are the bees knees
The gotoh is the best floyd ever made. This guy is the worst tech I've ever seen. Buy the gotoh. Consult a pro. If in seattle, look me up.
To fix the thing with the wobbly Trem Arm, you can take a little spring from the Pickups or a pen cut it a bit and put it in the trem Arm cavity and then screw in the trem arm, because of the speings pressure the arm is movable but stays where you put it
Thank you Mike a lot bro, I almost buy that Gotoh, for very same purpose like You did, but fortunately I saw your video bro. For the whamy bar I got Schaller one and replaced factory one on FR Special...and it rocks man. Dead on precise an locked, so that is my recomandation to you man. Thanx again and rock on dude :)
Glad to help. Thanks for commenting!
Always bro. Thank you.
I have the FR special on my KVXMG as well, I haven’t had any problems with it, but I do notice a little wear on it. I’ll look into a Gotoh as a possible replacement. I’ll probably just get an FR original, or maybe another special. Great review my friend. I’m a huge Jackson fan myself. Keep the Metal flowing!
Thanks man! I didn't really have any problems with mine either. Despite the wear on the saddles that I could see, the trem held tune just fine. Probably would have given me problems in the near future though. Thanks for commenting!
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 keep up the good work brother!
@@SurvivorMetalMan thank you very much. Appreciate it!
I have this same guitar and my special is already having issues with the screws wearing out. I’m really looking to replace it. I’m so happy I found this video because I like the feel and string spacing on the special. Jackson doesn’t have the type of nut they use for the 12-16 radius board. Did you use a new nut on this video? I really don’t want to mess with that because I love the feel. I’m thinking it’s the r3 nut?
This video was super informative on replacing a floyd with a gotoh. Most people in the internet tell you that aside the studs it firs fine but nobody mentions the intonation problem. Also, a way to fix the lose arm on the floyd is to just get another tremolo arm. The ones thst come with a floyd special vary a lot in quality
Thanks!
Cool comparison
Thanks man!
I installed the gotoh ge1996t in my Ibanez rg470 after removing a lo-trs and had the same problem at the back of the bridge when I pulled up it would hit the wood so I just routed a half an inch more back out of the wood and it works great didn't change my studs either an have no problems at all
I'm thinking it's the string block. I ordered hollow saddle clamp screws for my new Gotoh GE1996T which I will use when I put my guitar together. I'm building my guitar so it'll all be routed perfect fit but my problem is that I got the 40mm block bridge which is ridiculously very long. I'd rather cut out a HUGE chunk of the bridge block than to make a 2 inch thick guitar. Also I'm not impressed by the studs' screws, they're wobbly... Looks like I'll have to consider the millimeter give for when I decide where the studs will be.
Really good review and informative video. I was nodding because it felt like we were having a conversation... Heh. Thanks, man!
It might have been the block. That's certainly a possibility. I returned the bridge. When these new saddles wear, I'll replace them with steel. Thanks for watching and thanks for the compliments!
@Mike From Blood of the Wolf
Yesterday I dogged out my old MJ Dinky and decided to whack 1996 in it. Short cutting story: Gotoh was in my Soloist, with Gotoh studs and nut. On Soloist fit well and work very well.
My old Dinky’s cavity is for JT580, much shorter as there is no string clamping screws in the back of the bridge but on the back of the saddles, before microtuners. So yes, Gotoh won’t fit at all.
Solution: I used screws from OFR, works fine and enough space.
Anchor studs: I only changed to OFR ones, not fancy drilling into 20 yo guitar ;) Bridge wouldn’t work on JT580 fulcrums but on OFR ones sitting nicely.
Nut: GL nut provided is deeper and touch narrower than BH3 (Jax’s nut on JT580 system). Again not shelving the nut as it’s permanent job! Stick with old nut but with OFR pads (Gotoh ones work fine too!)
Since strings are new she doesn’t stay in tune 100% but after 3 hours of playing (gentle stretching and moderate pull/dives) it’s slowly stabilising. Will let you know in couple of days :)
My question: is Gotoh requiring it’s original anchor studs and nut to work properly?(as on my Soloist) or it will slowly settle out? Time will show.
Keep up with good work buddy!
Right on man. Thanks for the tips! I'm sure they help someone out!
On website it specifies as replacement for original not special. It probably works with 1000 as well since same dimensions as original.
@@cristiansheput7898 according to the FR website, "The Floyd Rose Special maintains the design and features of an Original Floyd Rose, while utilizing zinc alloy saddles in place of steel and a zinc alloy sustain block in place of brass." So the Gotoh should be a drop in replacement for the Special and the Original, right?
Dear Mike!. A tremolo floating Bridge, Is a complex conjuntion of some subsystems. The pivots or studs are the most important part because It gives the support the Bridge, and the Knives rest there. I would recommend you replace the pivots but cutting their height 2 mm from the top, not from the base.
Dear Mike If the intonation screws have no space, and rub against the edge. You can take them out and cut them just a little without needing to cut the cavity. Regards!
The saddles on the Floyd Rose Special are not made of steel like the FR 1000, Or OFR…. The saddles are made of Zinc alloy which is cheap pot metal… the string lock screws in mine actually pulled out of the saddles…I wore mine out in approximately 2 years … but I use my Floyd in the same vein as Jeff Hanneman and Kerry King…. You can instantly upgrade your special by buying OFR saddles… as far as the string lock screws being too long on your Gotoh you can easily swap out the FR Special screw for the Gotoh screws… they’re shorter and work perfectly… hope this helps.
I just purchased a Floyd Rose push/pull tremolo from Amazon for about $20. It just came in today so I haven’t installed it yet but it’s just like the Gotoh bar
Cool, let us know how it works!
Seems like the studs may be grooved and not allowing trem to return to pitch. Also try ofr saddle screws they are shorter allowing more intonation adjustments
the Gotoh GE1996T is in every way a better tremolo than even the best qc'ed FR Special. I have specials in a couple guitars and they work just fine for what I'm capable of doing with a 2 point locking trem, but they are as a premise a lower quality product that sell for way cheaper than the Gotoh for a reason, inferior alloys used at critical points of the trem system which will keep wear and tear (like the degraded saddles you saw in your special) a thing of the past.
Using the posts from a FR special is like taking the high performance wheels and tires off of a Ferrari or Porsche and replacing them with wheels and tires from a late 90s Toyota Camry. The degradation in performance of the sports car will be obvious even to an untrained driver... Economy tires and wheels can not withstand the power that will be unleashed on them, likely to result in the failure of the tires resulting in the unlikelihood of the cars survival.
I'll tell everyone here too, from experience, just because a manufacturer brochure, or dimensions diagram, or a group of dudes on a forum says a specific tremolo system will fit in your guitar, it will almost always be guaranteed to need some sort of body modification.... An FR SPECIAL routing template by Jackson is not going to be the same specs that you would get from an FR original template, two different manufacturers, two different generations of products, two different needs, two different results. I told a customer one time that the OFR that I was installing in his 2009 Ibanez GX-350 was not a route for route match with the Edge Pro III installed on his axe, even though the posts centers were the same width apart... the posts routes had to be widened for the larger stronger OFR posts, the body had to be carefully routed wider on the whammy bar side of the baseplate and between the trem and bridge pickup, and a lot more of the cavity underneath had to be removed in order to accept the 37mm block and spring setup of the OFR. The mods you need in this video are as about as un-invasive as it gets when it comes to tremolo replacement outside of a like for like trem swap. Routing out extra cavity space can be done safely and won't damage any of the body finish as long as you tape off areas not being routed away, and a bit of matte black spray paint refinishing the cavity will make the work look like a factory job.....
It is unfortunate your disappointment in the Gotoh trem, especially considering its performance to price ratio is unbeatable, as i prefer it over the OFR which is double the price. It performs the same job as all other trems set up properly and it's tuning stability is 2nd to none outside of installing a Sophia style piston system.
I appreciate the comment. However, you missed the point of the video.
Very, very good in depth video! I wanted a GOTOH 1996 to replace the cheap FR on my DEAN ML [Korean] now i don't think it would fit...Damn it! The Schaller are the same as a FR original, made in Germany and exactly the same size, materials but a bit cheaper. The trem on my EVH striped, is a FR 1000 [Incredible trem] made by a company called PING...but you can't buy them separate...????...So i may go with the Schaller. Thanks for a great video.
Thanks a lot! Highly recommend Schaller! I have one in my Kelly Star and it's excellent! I'm sure you'll be happy, assuming it fits.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Fingers crossed! Thanks!
I bought the Floyd 1000 ,
I use inox for the bar lube it's a food grade grease used for my fishing reels ,
I used Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 for tremolo arm. it works well for me
Awesome, thanks for the tip!
Hahah trem arm always on tip 🤣🤣
Nice video mate, thnx. Thinking about putting this into an Ibanez Jem, half the price of a replacement Edge III (that I've loved for years - ignore the bad press).
FWIW, for the long intonation screws, apparently they are ~4mm longer than an OFR or special. I would just get a hacksaw and hacksaw off 4mm off these 😁👍. That particular problem solved.
Cheers 🤟🤟
Qualifier : I haven't tried the GE1996T in a guitar yet, but I do have a couple of Partscasters with Gotoh 510 bridges and I love them, stable as hell, bomb-proof when set up properly - and that's without a locking nut ( OK, I use a Fender roller nut and Schaller locking tuners, but even so). Tighter and far more responsive than any Floyd Rose I've ever used, plus you don't have the really annoying floppy arm that you get on Floyds. Peace 🤟🤟
Thanks for the info!
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 👍I guess the point I was trying to make above but didn't, was that the quality of the Gotoh bridges I do have experience of is top-notch, and I would be very surprised if the GE1996T isn't the same. Japanese engineering after all - they don't know how to make bad stuff.
Nice guitar by the way 🤟🤟
@@kevinmcguinness1113 right. It was nice, just didn't really fit exactly.
Kinda odd the cavity. I got a Dinky J32 and with the stock FL I got like a cm of play so I'd assume this would work for that just fine. You'd think they'd just route all the guitars the same?
You would think, but no, they're not all routed the same.
So gotoh ( in case i replace floyd special ) it will fit without routing ?? !!!
Gotcha fr are nice got one on my 90s grover kelly
Is there a noticeable difference in where you pick hand rests while playing on the Gotoh? The saddles and fine tuners look so different. Wondering if I would have to adjust my playing style if I switched from Floyd rose. Thanks!
That's a great question. Honestly I can't remember! I made this video a few years ago and I didn't have the Gotoh installed for too long before returning it.
I have the same tremolo and I love it. Get rid the zinc alloy studs and put either gotoh studs or original fr studs. Not the special.
Your problem will be solved 100%.
I also have the special fr in another guitar and I had tuning issues out of the box. Changed the studs with original (steel) fr studs and it was fine.
In my experience and opinion
Gotoh is by far the best value for money that you can buy.
I was about to post this exact same thing. The ideal install is to fit the Gotoh studs and everything works absolutely perfectly. It does require installing those new bushings though, so it's a one way street even if it's the right one.
Especially if those studs are 8 years old. There's got to be some wear on them.
The Special saddles too, you can change for steel inox ones. That the FR special are zinc made.
Good insight and nice to know. Why not just take the screws that secure the string block/fine tuners sit on out and replace with shorter ones. Like 1/8 or 1/4 inch shorter? I agree that you shouldn't have too but would be a solution for a couple of dollars. I have two Floyd originals on Jacksons and a real vintage Schaller on an old 90s charvel . The screws in the schaller are literally and inch shorter and do not stick out the end of bridge at all. Allen head stops immediately after the fine tuner screws.
I thought about that. I looked for Gotoh brand tremolo bolts on eBay but couldn't find any, and I didn't know if Floyd Rose brand parts would be compatible. Plus I had 30 days to return the tremolo and didn't want to mess around with it too much.
I have a crazy trem system. Its Liscensed Under Floyd Rose Patents. Pre Gotoh labled but Gotoh built. No locking blocks. It strings directly through the blot that usually livks thay block in place.
Its on a 84' Headway by HMI.....
Good luck finding any info on that. All that exists is an ad in a l magazine from 88'
The reason the Gotoh stud sleeves are bigger is because there's an internal screw inside the pivot studs that sets the bridge height. This for me is a plus cuz I hate readjusting action with a passion. The big downside for me is the arm fitting. It hits off the timber inside of the trem cavity
For the special arm swinging around, you can replace the whole collar and arm with a german OFR, or a schaller one, they gor for like 15-20 $, they are the same cause schaller makes the OFR anyway...
Schaller makes the OFR? Learn something new everyday. I got the nut on the arm bushing as tight as I can get it. Might just have to replace it. I have a few other FR Specials and the arms don't swing.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 yep schaller makes the OFR, they also make their own version which is bit different, and the lockmeister which is exactly like the OFR, yes on the specials, usually when they are new the arm is tighter and stays where you want it, but with use they get loose...on some of them on others it might be loose brand new or tight for years, they are just more inconsistent.i bought a used OFR from the 90s and its tight like new !
@@AimiliosM I have a Schaller, not sure what model. It's a direct replacement for a JT-500. Easily the best trem I own. Is the Lockmeister kind of rare? Can't say I've seen too many Schallers that look like an OFR.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 the one you have is schallers design and its like the floyd rose ii from the 90s, they are very good and they even got replaceble knife edges ! The lockmeister is their later design and is exactly like the OFR, no its not rare, and its also much cheaper here in europe, schallers are like 200-220 and OFRs are 330-350 !!!!
S/O to Guitar Max for that recommendation 🤘
Do you think it fits the schecter demon 6 fr?
Thanks guys.
i wonder if you filled the holes and drilled closer to the neck slightly. just a thougtht. that would help intonation and give room for the screws. thats if you have enough meat near the bridge cavity, my dinkys saddle just wore out and im sure more are on there way but i had a second jackson i stoll the bridge off cus its neck is bowed a little. cool video.
Yeah that won't fit into my Fusion Special. The OFR doesn't even fit.
My import Nuno has a Special and it's junk. I am going to replace it or install the Brass Block and the saddles, too. Thanks for this video, it helped.
I'm glad it helped! In my experience the brass block did nothing to affect the tone. The steel saddles will probably help with tuning stability and overall feel under the hand. The good thing is you know exactly where to spend your money. Good luck!
🤘
Regarding the intonation screws, I had the same issue with my Gotoh in my Jackson. You can get shorter screws or cut the ones you have with a dremel or hacksaw to make them shorter.
Cut the screws?! From which end? This seems like bad advice.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 If you have to ask which end you need to cut the screws from then you definitely shouldn't do it 😆. But for others reading, you simply measure how much space you need and cut the screw on the threaded end accordingly, then round it off with a taper. Very easy to do if you have a Dremel.
@@fleshfries I obviously have no experience with a Dremel. I just thought that sawing the threads with a hacksaw would render the screw damaged and useless.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Yea it can be done with a hacksaw but you'd need a super steady hand. Another option is to use the screw from a Floyd rose/special. They all have the same thread type and the Floyd rose screws are slightly shorter.
These are also available and work if you need to go even shorter: www.ebay.com/itm/6-SHORT-String-Lock-SCREWS-for-Floyd-Rose-Original-Special-Lic-Tremolo-Bridge-/392264589063?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0
Man, I installed one of these in my 2001 Ibanez S470, and that is the best thing I've ever done in my life. It's better than any edge trem. I'm not sure what you did wrong, but these GOTOH trems are of the highest quality, and you don't even have to use the bigger posts. It's probably better not to, in some cases. My luthier did not feel comfortable drilling out a Saber to that diameter. He just shortened the locking screws, and re- machine the ends. However, you can just swap locking screws from a Floyd Rose, which are shorter. If it's not zeroing out, something is wrong. These things are stable as fuck.
The problem I have with the floyd special is the zinc saddles dont respond the way the steel saddles of the gotoh do. I would do the mods. I changed the ibanez edge 3 in my jem jr to the gotoh. It was a touch smaller but once I got intubated, it was worth it
Cool man. I appreciate the respectful encouragement to take it all the way. I started replacing my FR Specials with brass blocks and steel saddles. Just doing each guitar one at a time.
You can replace the arm and arm holder thing on a special with a shaller and it won't flop about
Did you take ALL of the tension off of the strings before adjusting the bridge height with the 2 posts?? If not, that's why its not returning exactly to pitch. The knife edge has to stay perfectly sharp. Im sure you know all this... but if not, there it is. And i'll bet you can find some shorter screws. Maybe the ones from a special that don't stick back so far??
Turning of the posts at tension is like a knife, at least 100 pounds of tension with 9-46. Turning the post under this tension cuts into the posts. Always adjust the post screws while pushing down on the tremolo bar. Tiny increments. Take your time.
Oh hell yeah !!! killer idea for sure just beef up the saddles and block with better quality parts and its good to go..and save some money too.. By the way...i love the MANOWAR poster in the back ground...Brother's of METAL....\m/
Thanks! I thought about that after purchasing the cheaper saddles. About the poster, got it at the Manowar show in Cleveland. Hail and kill!
You have fine gear and the Emg's look so nice in a gloss black guitar!
I have subscrived to your channel.
You could have upgreded your Special, or you could buy a Floyd 1000 series that are very good, and the tremolo arm is more tight and doesnt swing.
Cheers from Portugal 🍺🤘🇵🇹
Hey man, thanks for commenting. If I had to do this all over I would have bought the steel saddles from Floyd Rose. Oh well, maybe in another 8 years when the zinc alloy saddles wear out. I looked for a Floyd Rose 1000 and couldn't find one for sale. I looked on eBay, the Floyd Rose website and Amazon. Do you know if they're sold after market? I know they come stock on some of the Jackson Pro Series guitars.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 FR 1000 have the same materials as the Original, but its not made in Germany.
I'll be watching more videos from you. I hope you have reviews!
Cheers from Portugal 🍺🤘🇵🇹
Hola Mike. Tengo pensado hacer el remplazo floyd special a gotoh.
Que me recomiendas tener en cuenta.? Gracias desde Colombia
Hola Darío. Cómo estás?. Lo que te puedo recomendar es que veas este vídeo ruclips.net/video/QSj_dFRnv9Q/видео.html
Allí el Luthier instala un Gotoh rebajando la altura del pivote, y no taladrando el cuerpo. Rebajó el ancho con una lima, y quedó perfecto. Es la recomendación que te puedo dar.
Si aun piensa en hacerlo.... Es el mejor puente que puedes probar.. Revisa bien la información y tienes que llevarla a un luthier que te la pueda instalar.... El amigo del video no hizo lo correcto y realmente no le saca el provecho al 100% a ese floyd...
Busca referencias de guitarrista famosos que usen este tipo de floyd...
Humildemente te lo recomiendo al 100%
ruclips.net/video/-WzhIkOCf4E/видео.html
91.5 mm and 78.5 mm. Hope it fits in my Jackson JS32 Kelly
How do you intonation than ?
Your detail in explanation is really good. I would say if anyone buys a guitar and it already has a Floyd Special, it can be worth it to upgrade parts to the genuine Floyd versions. No modification is needed to the guitar at all (careful with sustain block depth if you upgrade that). In order of upgrade value : 1.the Saddles, 2.the bar and collar assembly, and 3.the sustain block. The Floyd Rose Special already uses steel studs and steel (spot hardened) Base Plate, or at least at some point it did. On the other hand some guitars come with really poor quality Licensed Floyd Rose versions and in that case the Gotoh is a better value and worth body modification imo. Cheers
Ive had the same problem.. wish id watched your video before i purchased.
They do look awesome but if they dont fit, they dont fit.
I just wanted to replace a black nickel original on my edwards eclipse so i can have all black parts.
No im going to have to buy a special and swap out the block from the original
Thanks for commenting. Good luck with the swap!
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 I ended up doing some dremel work . I have the fernandes version
The idea of upgrading to a steel tremolo is that the knife edges dont dull. Even if you upgrade saddles and block you'll get more quality but once the knife edges dull since the plate is not steel, you cant swap that.
The gotoh1996T is the most stable tremolo out there after kahler.
What you MUST do is to swap the studs as their shape has a different groove. Intonation screws - either slighty routing work(CNC) or DIY them to fit properly shortened.
Considering that gotoh is 50% of dumb floyd roses .... i'd say you'll be on a bargain even if you send it to a luthier to do the drilling install and setup
Yes. The biggest problem I have seen on youtube videos doing bridge swaps is thinking it is just about the better base plate or knife edges. Steel, Spot hardened Steel, All Steel. The Studs have to also be Steel, the same hardness as the knife edges. Otherwise the studs or the knife edges will wear down which ever metal is softest. You have to swap out the anchors and studs as well.
@@jrg770 So, do you know if the plate and studs on the Gotoh are steel?
Hello, buy a set of OFR floyd rose locking screws they are shorter than the gotoh ones so you can move the saddles back, and they fit in the existing threads, its a common problem with gotoh trem, you can even use the ones from the special, plus to see if its really parallel with thebody check the treble side too.
That's helpful. Did that work for you? On a side note, I dislike buying extra stuff to make an upgrade work. It's kinda like paying extra for cheese on your burger.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 i totally understand about the parts, yep it works, also since it doesnt return to correct pitch, its because of the studs unfortunately you gotta use the gotoh ones, also to check if its parallel use the treble side, in order to be correct the treble side will look parallel and the bass side maybe a tiny bit upwards, thats because the action is lower on treble side and higher at bass side, plus have the springs straight and not angled..
@@AimiliosM thanks, that is very helpful. If one were to buy a Floyd Rose Original, would any modification be required, do you know? Just thinking that if you have to buy extra parts for the Gotoh to work, plus modify your guitar to make the posts fit, maybe it's easier to buy an OFR?
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 hey again, the Original floyd rose would be a drop in replacement, they have exactly the same dimensions with the special.The studs of the OFR would thread in the old bushings of the SPECIAL. So both share exactly same specs size wise, but the OFR Parts are better quality and much harder steel.
@@AimiliosM great info. Thanks for sharing with us!
The knife edges will wear out on the Floyd Rose Special faster though.
Maybe...
Hey mike, pretty sure your inability to set intonation is due to your use of the original posts. The newer wider posts will force the trem farther backer (in theory), and may allow you to intonate properly.
Or he can get shorter screws that don't hit the guitar. It's just a matter of whether he wants to permanently alter the guitar. I would, but some people may not want, or know how to.
@@itsalwayssomething7490 Sounds like everyone here has the wrong idea about what the short screws will do. They won't affect intonation. The string locks (blocks) will still hold the string in the same position either way and it won't change the intonation. The screws work by pushng the block closed on the strings like a vise.
I replaced the string block screws with Schaller 34mm and that gave me room
Sucks it did not fit on your guitar. It was a direct drop in replacement on my guitar except the posts course. No issues at all. I love this trem
Can you intonation np ?
@@satchrules101 yes , did you have trouble with yours ?
@@jayz6008 No I just haven't decided yet on if should go for a lo pro edge or the Gotoh .
@@satchrules101 oh ok , well they’re basically both the same company except one bridge is way more expensive than the other . I briefly had an rg550 with a lo pro edge and if I remember correctly the Gotoh posts fit into the guitar with any modifications so that’s a plus
Brother,, How You doing..?
Well, Could you make a Comparison Video Of both JACKSON X series kvxMG (Black) vs JACKSON X Series RRX24 (Red Or Black) ??
Pros and Cons Of Both Guitars and Which one would be Be the Best one for playing BRUTAL DEATH/ DEATH metal..
That might helf Me to get one!! Really love your videos.. So do your Guitar Tones.. Thanks 🤘
Hey man, thanks for the compliments! I would recommend either of those models. My KVXMG has a thinner neck profile than both my RRXMG models. That's really the only difference, other than the shape, obviously. The KVXMG has more of a D shaped neck and the RRXMG has more of a C shaped neck. Specs are exactly the same for both. Both balance well with a strap for playing and standing. So really, it just comes to what kind of neck profile you like.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Thanks Brother 👍
@@vicktor_damian6612 You're very welcome!
If you're using the original posts from a floyd special with the gotoh that could definitely lead to some problems. The studs on a special are made of that crap zinc alloy and the gotoh is hardened steel so it will erode those bad boys in no time. If you don't want to drill your guitar out for the gotoh studs then I suggest using the ofr studs made in Germany. They match the metal of the gotoh and you'll have a much easier time. Also, the alan screws do need replacing in order for it to be properly intonated. Again, the ofr screws made in Germany are good place to start.
One question Mike, what is block number? On my FR special is 32 block, and I think on Gotoh is 41, so it can make isues on back side, are there a version with 32 block or I would have to by custom one. And is the block holes for springs and screws same as on RF special' block? Thank you in advance, I would appreciate an answer bro. I planning a replace or modyfying my fr special because it turning it self to shit 😁🤘
Great question. I believe I ordered a 34mm block. They had a few different block sizes available when I bought mine. I don't recall if 32 was an option.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Thanx bro 🤘 I'm gonna go with 34 as well...2 mm will not be a issue.
@@jovanradojkovic5167 excellent. Let us know how it goes!
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Oh....I will bro...🤘
Hey Mike I added this things on my floyd special and replaced arm with a Schaller one...and it is a killer now man. These saddles are badass bro, mine are so well made and fits exactly, also the block too. 🤘
you can cut the screws for the intonation and dull the front into a cone.... Not a big deal
I see more problems that advantages using the Gotoh, I think I might get the FR 1984 instead
That is my recommendation. I would have went that route, but at that time I could not find one in black.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 There are some in stock at Stew Mac
Hard to judge if it isn't installed on the mounts provided or intonated.
Even after that you'll need to stretch your strings more, which is usually the issue when a trem doesn't return to pitch.
Good video, I can imagine the gotoh engineers yelling at the screen to measure your route before buying and read that the posts are larger though..and will need drilling.
Can my edge 7 replace with gotoh 1996?
Your edge 7 is a better unit. Also guess who actually builds the edge tremolos...
Gotoh!!
That is the japanese high end iterations , edge, lo pro edge and the now discontinued edge pro.
@@KOSTAS84 i just want to change it becauss it doesn't fit with the colors😂
Hi Mike, if you purchase a schaller German made Floyd Rose trem you won't have a problem with the whammy bar fit as it is manufactured to a better tolerance so are the pivot points, IE hardened steel. As for the intonation screws you can as one of your previous friends suggest change the screw sizes or cut them down if they are too long. Anyway if I were you I would bite the bullet and get a schaller one and sell the other one on eBay. Have fun All the Best, Keep on Rocking. John.
Thanks for the suggestion. I'm pretty happy with the new saddles, even though they're made of pot metal and will need to be replaced again, they've solved the immediate problem. If I had to do it all over again, I would have bought steel saddles from Floyd Rose. Oh well. Problem solved for now.
So, if the FR baseplate is steel, why not just get a set of steel saddles from FR and swap them over, ya know, rather then buying new zinc saddles?
I think I mentioned this in the video. I didn't think of that until after I purchased the zinc alloy replacement saddles. However, the new saddles are doing just fine so far.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 heres to 8 more years of work from them!
@@Furiora ha! Yeah...8 wonderful years!
The frs had better sustain and came back up to tune better, judging by your test
Had to read your comment twice. Wasn't expecting anyone to say anything positive about a FRS.
I've been playing for years. Got a good ear. Did you switch back to the bigger springs when you put the old bridge back on? I've found that the more tension you can get away with the better.
@@unklebigbad I don't remember. It's been a few years. I'm pretty sure I just put back whatever was in there to start. Which was four springs, I believe.
I'm getting a goto for my stratocaster cause my local music store recommended them and they have supplied rental instruments to schools all across BC Canada and I got scammed out of a fake floyd rose so
I’ve never heard anyone have anything bad to say about this bridge... I think this may be user error.
Other than not being able to adjust the saddles back for intonation, it's a great bridge! I thought I was pretty clear on that. Seriously though, if you have any tips, let me know.
ruclips.net/video/wJIXFFFxf_g/видео.html
This video has helped me with all tremolos.
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 u can get shorter string clamping screws so it fits in better and gives room for adjustment, don't know where from tho. Also I think the tuning destability is from using the Floyd posts, the knives on the gotoh are thicker so need the gotoh post sit in. U could maybe try filing the Floyd posts to the more open size of the gotoh, saves risking drilling bigger holes.
@@deicidalsmarijawanalegacy1037 thanks, but I'm good with where I'm at. Next time I need to replace the saddles (in another 8 years or so), I'm going with steel. Then I have nothing to worry about.
You need to upgrade your trem bar. After the upgrade the bar will stay put
Thanks. I was digging around in my parts drawer and found a collar that holds the bar snug. Free fix!
@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 free is the best fix.
fat bras upgrades dont fit floyd rose spesial,,,it has different screwholes than original in the plate,,,not sure if sadles fit either
I had no issues installing a brass fat block on FR Special.
I put the Gotoh in my strat (with the gotoh studs)...won’t stay in tune.. I gotta give it a yank up to bring it back to pitch when I dive bomb it...and I’m not a crazy whammy guy...kinda like you!!!
That sucks man. What kind of tremolo was in it to start?
Fuck it, if anything just cut intonation screws showered with a grinder, or even sand it shorter maybe. Just to take away some of that unnecessary length in the screws and it would allow you to be able to move the saddle
Brother, all you have to do is swap the post ( not the anchor ) of the "special" for the post of an original floyd rose. They have the same dimensions, but your Gotoh would never get out of tune with the original floyd Rose post because it has a much better quality than the "especial " one. I know it by over 30 years of experience messing around with bridges !
The FR special is okeyish, but its weakness besides the saddles is the pot metal sustain block! You did right, I recommend replacing it to a Schaller Lockmeister!
You did a fatal mistake though:
The Gotoh is out of hardened steel and the FR special studs are cheaper metal, so the knife edges kill the studs!
Seems like the studs may be grooved and not allowing trem to return to pitch. Also try ofr saddle screws they are shorter allowing more intonation adjustments