You do the setup the same way that I've been doing it since almost when I started to use and love Floyd Rose systems (licence, special, etc.). There are a few points/tips that I have to mention: · All the setups that I do, even tho it's a little bit, just a little bit more difficult, I do it in playing position. I've noticed that gravity and neck-rest thingy affects the intonation, string height and pickup height. You to the setup in certain position but when you sit or stand up and put your guitar in playing position, it changes. · The wood block can be customize with any piece of wood, a saw and some sandpaper. I have one for two guitars that I have (sand paper two faces of the block). · Before intonation, by the way you did a fantastic job mention how to do it properly and with the correct tools,I advise to first take the old strings, clean the guitar, put the new strings, tune it to pitch, check the relief of the neck, check the pickups height and then the intonation. · When putting new strings, release the springs just a little bit, lock the bridge by putting some thin enough pieces of wood underneath the base plate of the bridge but just to lock the strings and putting some tension on them, because it is a struggle to move the bridge with the tremolo bar every time you put and string and lock it due springs tension, specially for beginners on this. Everything else, OH MAN! You are on point :) Greetings from Mexico.
exactamenteeee, te sorprendería la cantidad de ``técnicos `` he visto ajustar guitarras en su mesa de trabajo, y a la hora de tomar la guitarra siempre están mal ajustadas
Spring tension is the simplest part. I've had my first floyd guitar for a week and I've got it down, tune to whatever you play in after you have your action intonation amd neck relief set then tighten or loosen the springs to where the bridge is parallel to the body while being in tune. It's really simple guys.
@@Ayyem93 You do neck relief first, then the action. But I'd set up the springs before intonating. You don't want to have the bridge at a different angle or height before finishing the intonation, That's just how I'd do it but your method would end up working too. I really agree with you about the spring tension being quite simple. I'm pretty sure I figured it out on my own like 20 years ago when I barely knew what I was doing haha
The diagonal set-up of the tremolo springs, in this video allows them to maintain a higher tension of the outside springs, preventing the need to tighten the screws excessively or adding a fourth spring. Many luthiers recommend this approach to spring set-up. Great video! Thanks for offering your tools to the world!
Everytime I've tried the diagonal setup with three springs it's causes tuning issues when using the Floyd. I see it so often but I've never got that to work.
That's how you sell products. Watched the video, went straight to your webstore and bought the block set and intonation tool. A bit pricey but it'll be worth it. I remember what a pain in the ass changing strings and intonation used to be on my Jackson back in the 90's.
I'm sure you hear this a lot , but fantastic video. Extremely informative , very well paced and professional. Why can't more youtube videos be like this???
DUDE! You just made my day!!! Thank you for taking the time to reach out and share your thoughts. I am a huge YT consumer, so I try to put content out there that I would like to see. Rock on! -Greg
That's a nifty intonation tool. But I stopped using feeler gauges years ago. It's much quicker to just use two fingers one at each end of the fretboard and you could see the relief. I don't you string height measurements either. I lower the action until it buzzes. Then I bring it up until it stops buzzing. That's the maximum lowest action. I call that the Billy Sheehan method, he made it popular .
Just bought a jackson randy rhoads with terrible paint job, stripping it down, changing to active. My first floyd rose. Really glad I found this video. Took the scary floyd monsters away. Cheers
All this time and I never thought to block the trem before tuning up. I sold two amazing Floyd equipped guitars because of the never-ending tuning dilemma when all I had to do was block the trem. This video is a godsend!
Just started watching this vid - man, this is how you do it. Lay out all the tools, give a brief explain of them. As a former mechanic, I appreciate this greatly. Looking forward to the rest of it, and I will buy your tool for sure (pretty small - wish it came in a case or bag or something). Also subbed up.
Great video! I used a Sharpie pen instead of a 9v battery for a trem wedge, worked really well. I found that if the Sharpie wasn't big enough I could add a guitar pic until the trem was flat.
I've struggled with Floyd Rose style tremolos for so long and have sold guitars simply because I couldn't get them set up and tuned properly on my own. I bought a new Ibanez with a double locking trem, followed your instructions (with my own makeshift block) and got it set up perfectly. Thanks!! I'll be buying a proper block for my guitool box. I''m going to recommend this video to anyone and everyone.
Well glad to have you back on the dark side, I feel the pain but I never sold my guitar, my jem jr is now 8 months old I started playing 10 months ago. After buying my jem jr it’s been a massive pain in the ass. It’s been “professionally set up” twice. After the last time a few days ago I thought everything was good, it wasn’t until the next day the intonation was off again. Replaced the strings, adjusted the truss rod, adjusted pickup height and action height of the strings and had to take apart the internals and found springs stuck under the pickups not even on the screw posts to raise the pickups. The pickups aren’t level still, can’t tell if the guitar needs a little chipping away in that specific cavity or if it’s caused by the faceplate. What I do Know is that with them basically all flat against the guitar it’s fixed a lot of shitty sounds like the G string sounding like a damn banjo. Idk why or how I’ve put up with this when I’ve got 2 guitars that are way brighter quality but just suck to play because they don’t feel good in my hands. The schecter is close to my Ibanez but the neck is slightly thicker, but the main issue is that I drop tuned it and all the songs the app uses are drop d or eb. Probably for the best. It’s way easier coming up with Melodie’s and rhythm with my drop tuned guitar. Just feels so natural, my gretsch just weighs a lot and makes me not wanna touch it either. My fender acoustic I only use for recording specific parts but I hate that fender or any fender for that matter. Every fender thing I own is broken except the acoustic. But I just don’t enjoy acoustic playing. The sounds are lovely but it lacks everything I enjoy about guitar.
I'm new to setting up my Ibanez w FloydRose type trem... wish I'd watched this 2 weeks ago! Purchased the intonation tool and fret rocker today. Live here in Westminter. Thank you Thank you Thank you!
I just purchased a used Ibanez JS100 in great condition - EXCEPT for the Floyd Rose set-up, that was almost unplayable. Greg's video, plus his tuning blocks, made the major part of set-up really straightforward. The intonation tool that I also purchased from Skyscraper is obviously of really high precision quality. I've not previously dared tamper with intonation, but with the right tool, it's easy!Thanks Greg, for helping us simplify maintenance, and focus on PLAYING! Cheers!
Stupendous...thanks much....never saw anyone put strings on "backwards" so to speak with the colored metal loop ends on the head.....cool....may try that.
You Sir, are the man! So love the tools, the process you shared is spot on for me, 5-5 on FR Trems. Invaluable...EVERYONE! Support this guys knowledge, buy something!!
I love that you gave other options other than your product for those that don't have extra money currently! Thank you. Will probably buy a Trem Wedge in the future though.
Best tutorial for this I've seen and to the point. Too many 45-60 minutes videos I've watched where they don't even touch on intonation. This is great. And your intonation tool is out of stock on your website. Do you know when more will be available?
Thanks for the kind words! We have a batch of intonation tools on their way to anodize right now. We should have them available in about 2 weeks. You can use the contact form on our website and I can put you on the notification list when they are ready. (sorry, YT doesn't allow DMs anymore...) www.skyscraperguitars.com/contact
Thanks, nice tips! I have an Edge Zero II trem but you give very good tips. I could think of two advantages of having the springs straight, but I honestly don't believe it makes a noticeable difference in the sound. Like you say, you explain how you do it. Thanks again!
I've heard of some people doing that, but I don't understand why. I see you have an option, because the holes are there, but what difference does it make having the springs straight?
My guitars are on stands and collecting dust too Greg..lol...I'm diggin' the intonation tool mate but won't work on the Jackson licenced Floyd Rose...Have a good one mate.
I just purchased a Schecter Reaper 6 with a licenced Floyd Rose and a BC Rich Mockingbird with an original Floyd Rose. I have always played Les Paul guitars so the Floyd has been a nightmare for me. I saw this and purchased the kit just over a week ago and cannot wait until it arrives here to me in the UK 🇺🇸🛫🛬🇬🇧
Excellent video! I've had a Floyd guitar(Jackson reverse dinky) for 25+ years, and its nice to learn a new trick or two about easier ways to set them up. One thing I've always wondered. On "regular" guitars with a bone or plastic nut, people always go on about filing and setting the nut height. With a Floyd, its steel, and you never see anyone adjusting the height. Are they just that accurate because they are machined? Also, mine doesn't have that extra bar behind the nut, and now I see why I need one. When I put new strings, I put the fine tuners all the way out, then 1 turn in because after tuning and all that, when I tighten the nut locks, it makes the note sharp and sometimes I have to turn them out. That extra bar probably prevents that by keeping the strings flat against the nut. I will definitely be using your "ball end on the tuners side" technique. Genius!
You'll find shims under a lot of FR nuts. The nice thing for factories is that they don't have to file them, so as long as you are consistent with production, they should all sit perfectly on the neck. Over time, they don't wear nearly as much as a bone nut since the strings are clamped. As for the clamps and going sharp. The key is "snug". You don't have to make the clamps tight, just snug. It takes very little pressure to keep the guitar from slipping out of tune. That said, I always plan on the strings going just a tick sharp... Tis the nature of the beast. Take care and thanks for the great comment!!! Greg
@@SkyscraperGuitars I'd like to state again, because it's not really evident from the video, just how well this little tool is made. Tiny little thing, but beautifully machined, you just want to take it out of the packet and hold it when it arrives.
This is great!! My order a set of 4xTrim Block plus Intonation and it arrived in 3 days. Thank You, man! Now I do all the Floyd Rose tremolo guitars setup and restring like a Pro.
Thank you man. What a generous upload. I have been stressed about this kind of diy project given the value of these guitars like the Kramer and the Charvels. Bravo guitar mentor. Great ad lib too; really a great tutorial and educational film.
Great video man. I bought the intonation tool and the trem blocks and set up my dean ml using this method and it came out great. All my buddies want me to set up their Floyds now lol
Awesome! You now have the blessing/curse of knowing how it's done!!! I can't tell you how many friends I've helped out over the years... Its amazing how easy it can be to take a guitar from o.k. to outstanding.
when checking for neck relief make sure to put the capo on at the first fret and not push at the last fret as some fretboard have a slight decline near the very end (rule of thumb 1 fret before the last fret)
That Skyscraper gizmo you created seems like the only logical choice to do this process. I wasn't entirely sure what to do with adjusting that little bolt on the saddle, then somehow moving the saddle forward/backwards appropriately without it flying away lol. I've changed strings/tunings to the point where I'm in bad shape as far as intonation. My hardtail guitar is so simple with only 1 easy screw to adjust :p
I did a "setup" from stock 9s to 10s doing the see-saw and spring dance once. Don't know how I finally got it, but I did. I'll never do it that way again though. I wanted to throw my new guitar out of the window. Just ordered a set of the blocks now, and I already have my Pick Pocket tool ready.
Mate, I loved this video! Great tutorial and I love your on-screen presence! You've made it entertaining, shared knowledge and kept it fun. As someone who has struggled with Floyd's in the past, thank you! Subscribed and I will be getting those trem blocks too :) Cheers!
The biggest problem I have with my Floyd Rose is the B string always seems to buzz in its locking nut groove. I can't seem to remedy it. Here's a tip from me about changing strings. I find changing one at a time is best. For example: De-tune the old bass E. Then take it off. Replace with the new bass E and re-tune. Then take the old A off replace with the new A and then re-tune. Etc.
6:26 man I don't care what anybody anywhere who has played or worked on guitars for at least 90 years will say, I truly think having the bridge slightly pulled like that is the best way to have your floyd setup. It, for whatever reason, seems to stay in tune the best for me. I always adjusted the claw to bring the bridge plate parallel with the guitar body, but it somehow has not been as reliable as keeping that slight tilt to have an extra little edge on the strings. Maybe it's because my string saddles kind of point upwards, so this evens things out. I have a Floyd Rose Special, btw.
I agree - I also prefer having the bridge in that position. I also took a chance on the Fender Tremsetter, and was not disappointed. The Tremsetter used in combination with an authentic Floyd Rose locking nut keeps the strings in perfect tune no matter how much or often I use the tremolo. I’m using a custom installed ‘licensed’ Floyd Rose with no issues. As long as the locking nut is the real deal, and you use a Tremsetter, an $18 Floyd Rose works out fine.
I don't even bother blocking up my Floyd Rose when tuning. I just put the strings on and tighten them to similar tension until the Floyd Rose is parallel with the body, which is where it should be if setup properly. Start tuning: some strings will be sharp, others flat...just do a "slop" tune to get them close. If the tension on your claw is correct, you should now be fairly close on the tuning....this will avoid that never ending see saw you speak of. Now you can fin tune it like you would any guitar. Of course as the strings stretch and snug up around the tuning machines, you'll have to do this a couple times...but that's the same with any guitar.
Isn't that basic standard string changing procedure? Do one at a time, tune to pitch, stretch it and retune till it stays in, then move on to the next string
@@stilllifewithguitar184 Most people's problem with the Floyd Rose is that they have to tune, retune, retune again...forever until the bridge is balanced. And I don't even do one string at a time. I take them all off at once and put all of the new ones on. The tricky part (if you haven't used a Floyd Rose) is that you have to tighten all of the strings evenly until the bridge is floating parallel to the body BEFORE you bother tuning it, to avoid that never ending tuning cycle. Also, if you change tuning or string gauge, you will also need to adjust the claw. Which should be true for any tremolo, but the outcome is much more severe if you don't adjust the claw in a Floyd Rose. None of this applies to a stop tail piece. So I would say no, it is not that same as any string changing procedure. Which is why most people get fed up and think their Floyd Rose is broken or crappy...which it is not. It is by far the most reliable tremolo I have ever used, when used properly.
@@ivankrushensky you are completely wrong. You didn't watch the video did you? You are doing it extremely inefficiently. Tuning string "close" to balance the trem is the whole problem. 1. Block the trem. 2. Replace and Tune all 6 to pitch. 3. Stretch strings. 4. Tune all 6 again. 5. Lock both ends, bridge and nut. 6. Un-block the trem. 7. Screw claw in until tuning comes back to pitch. 8. DONE. Any other way is less efficient. And guessing.
@@ryans9029 okay...wish I knew who you actually were and lived by you. We could have a race. Done it both ways. You don't need a block if you know what you're looking at and how a tremolo works. Sorry. You just don't. An Allen wrench and strings of the SAME gauge. That's all you need.
Nice Kramer. Had a 84 , with rounded head stock tip. Candy apple red. First good guitar i ever owned. I I wish you go more into detail on how you set your intonation
I been doing setups since about1993 and seen many done and watched hundreds of videos and I could never do setups accurately unless I do the entire job in playing position on my lap!! Gravity pulls and playing position is best
Thanks for this video. Thanks also for the FREE e-book. I saw another video like this with the sustain block's tension springs being adjusted and voila, it's in tune and intonated. I must give you higher marks for depth of instruction and production value of your video. Besides being mesmerized by that cool tuner, why did you tune/intonate with the old strings, get rid of them, then start again with new strings?
I always "rough in" the setup with old strings if I can. That way I know if everything works before I blow a new set of strings. Also, I can play the guitar after the adjustments and see if there is a high fret or something else that will need repair. If I changed the strings first, then I'd have to throw them away if I had to take them off for a fret repair... I usually rough in, then change strings, then let the guitar sit for a day or two, then go back through everything and make sure it's still happy. I hope that answers your question!
GREAT VIDEO! I LOVE that intonation tool! Where can I get one? At your store? I have been using a tiny hammer to gently tap the saddle forward. This is so much better. subbed.
Yes. We have them on www.skyscraperguitars.com/store. If you have any questions at all, just reach out. There is a contact form on the website and the questions come directly to me. -Greg
Good tip! Last time I used the tapered wood shims you get at the hardware store (they're actually for fitting windows into a framed wall), they are soft wood and bridge across the rout. I'll try your eraser trick next time.
Thanks, I appreciated this video enough to order the intonation tool and I just received it today. It's going not make intonation that Floyd Rose a lot easier. The Floyd does have it's advantages on my PRS Custom 24, but sometimes I wish I had just put a Bigsby on instead.
Hey man. I got my first Floyd last week after like 10 years of playing hard tail. Man its rough. I am doing everything myself and I almost destroyed the guitar. The floyd flew out off the posts cuz I took out a spring and damaged some wood. That being said I put it back together and learned a lot. Then I was going flat a lot when locked in after wammy abuse. Finally got through that by stretching strings more, tightening nut, and oiling the knife edge. One of my screws into the wood that installs the nut is stripped but not seeming to have an adverse affect right now. I feel mentally exhausted lol. I am exerting actual effort making sure I don't get negative. I think with time I will come to the true appreciation of the floyd. I took it to a tech and he fine tuned the intonation, neck relief, bridge height, and tension. He said I did good, but he made it perfect. Just the visual aesthetic of these guitars is so awesome so I will continue on learning about the floyd. I absolutely love your Kramer. I already told myself a S-S-H or just a neck S and bridge H floyd guitar is my next axe like the one you have. I got a Ibanez 1527 and I'm loving it (besides the work lol). Any advice? I see people work on it and it just seems so fluid and effortless meanwhile it seems like everything I do is labored and takes hours to materialize good results with a floyd lol.
You're in a good spot... You've got your guitar set up and working good... That makes it WAY easier for the next time. When it looks easy, that means someone has put in a TON of time getting good at something... We've all been there though. I can remember wrestling my guitar for DAYS trying to get it to play right. This was before I knew all the little tricks... I do a full setup once or twice a year depending on how the guitar plays. If it's playing good, no setup needed. If the action changes, I start with the truss rod and move on from there. Most of the string changes are simple. Loosen the springs, change strings, block, tune, stretch, tune, lock, adjust springs, enjoy!
@@SkyscraperGuitars I appreciate the encouragement. I subscribed and will continue to learn. Post more vids with the Kramer :) that thing is beautiful. Thanks and have a good day!
Tom, you do an incredible job of working with the crazy designs I come up with and turning them into the best luthier tools available on planet earth. I constantly get comments about the quality of the SSG tools and you are the reason people's jaws drop when they open their packages. I couldn't make these tools a reality without you.
Would like see you set up a peavey Wolfgang special! I tried putting strings on it for the first time and I screwed the action up on it can’t get it back the way it was
So I have this ocd where i just love seeing things in order. Today o got my guitar that i stashed years ago. I saw that the small intonation thingamajigs we're all uneven so I made them all flush. Boy i did not know what a shit of a mess i did when I made those adjustments and that's why I am here now.
I really like your tool. I have an early 90’s Charvel 375 Deluxe with a Schaller Floyd Rose and the barrel style string lock bolts so the key does not work with my guitar at since it relies on the longer screw type.
This is an awesome video! Just what i needed. I just broight home my fender squire stagemaster with dual bucks. Nice sounding git-fiddle and plays well too. Took forever figuring out how to change strings and tune it back. 😒 but I won! Will your intonation tool work for mine? It appears it will. Oh my tuner is the tc electronic poly tuner which has a strobe function. As well as my tuner of my tc electeonic bh250 which is also a pretty soild tuner. You opinion on using those?
IMO the neck rest should be closer to the body. When it's so far back toward the headstock and the rest of the guitar is not supported, the weight of the body will press down on the neck pressing the headstock forward and creating bowing where there normally wouldn't be in playing position, leading to tightening the truss rod more than it should be and getting fret buzz. I know you said you're just getting an estimate at first but it can easily be fixed by just having the neck rest further up towards the higher frets where there won't be any neck bending.
If you are adjusting the truss rod and its been a while spray some degrippant in before you attempt it. If the truss rod hasn't been adjusted for a while and it breaks you have a problem!
I go through EVERYTHING again with the new strings. I usually let it rest a day, then check, then rest another day and check again. The rough-in with old strings is usually 95%+. The adjustments from there on are usually very minor.
Regarding how you have your springs set up in a “V” pattern, if anyone gives you crap about it, let them know that in Floyd Rose’s original patent illustration, that is the way he drew it up. That tells you that is how he designed it and intended for them to be setup.
First..I really like your videos. As a luthier, to give away your secrets is surprising and refreshing. Thank you. Next..I work on super high precision things all the time. I'm a manufacturing engineer and design equipment. I also have to design setup tools and qc fixtures. So seeing thousandths of an inch is normal for me. I have a question.. does setting up in playing position really matter? If you measure string height flat on the bench then hold in playing position, is there a measurable difference? I have $10 that it doesn't.. but just in case I'll say it does, but not enough to make it go out of spec. Because specs are usually a range.. not one specific number. Thank you!
Yes and no. Some guitars are more sensitive than others. String height is not usually affected by position enough to matter. Relief, intonation and tuning tend to matter in about 5% of the guitars I've seen. Basses are affected more than 6 strings... Acoustics are also more sensitive. You could probably get away with never checking in playing position on solid body electrics, but I always like to be positive that I've nailed it, so I do all my final inspections in playing position. Strangely enough, straps matter sometimes.
@@SkyscraperGuitars Wow! The strap?? I've seen you work in your videos, and listen to what you're saying, so I believe anything you say! Unless it's about a bridge for sale... I might have to buy some tools from you. I just bought a 2017 Schecter Omen Extreme FR. After watching your video i immediately noticed that the fr is pitched down.. down being towards the pushing the bar down direction. I need to do a proper setup. Where are you located? I'm in western NY, Fairport NY to be exact. Thank you for the reply:) Keep up the great work!
When you have the two outer trem springs splayed-out, that means they are under more tension than the middle spring, all three of them should really be set so they are parallel to each other, so that they have an equal amount of tension on them, otherwise the middle spring won't be doing much and may have a tendency to fall out of the trem-block when doing pull-ups, if that happens all the strings will go flat when the bridge is returned to it's neutral position (the bridge will actually end up sitting so it's angled forward rather than parallel to the top of the guitar body).
Its preference. I've heard others say the springs will pop out. I've been playing Floyds since the 80s with 2 angled and one straight. I have yet to have that happen. I suspect using German parts is a big piece of that success... As I said in the video, I put them straight for customers unless they request the V formation. For me I like the V but it probably has more to do with superstition than anything... Take a look at the backs of famous guitar player's guitars... It's everywhere on the pro circuit and it always has been... That doesn't mean its right, just means that a lot of players do it.
cool guitar. how much do you sell the intonation tool for? thats a genius tool you invented there. i sure would like to buy one from you. excellent video brother.
I just got a new guitar yesterday in the mail. I'm a beginner and I didn't know what a floyd rose was until I tried tuning it. I'm having a very difficult time tuning it. U think u can make a how to tune a floyd rose for dummies video ?
I'm sure it's obvious in the video, but you set the intonation BEFORE you lock down the nut? I've heard conflicting opinions on this, but I don't see how it's possible to do it after you clamp it. Great video!
Intonation is set before the locking nut are on. When you put the lockers on, they don't affect the string length. One could argue that they change the stiffness of the string somehow because you're holding the string rigidly instead of free, but I've never double checked the intonation and had an issue because the locking nuts were or were not in place. I hope that helps!
Exactly my point. You have to detune, adjust, retune, check, detune, adjust, etc. It's just as easy to work without one. I've got a pile of broken "KEYS" from trying to use them under string tension.
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You do the setup the same way that I've been doing it since almost when I started to use and love Floyd Rose systems (licence, special, etc.). There are a few points/tips that I have to mention:
· All the setups that I do, even tho it's a little bit, just a little bit more difficult, I do it in playing position. I've noticed that gravity and neck-rest thingy affects the intonation, string height and pickup height. You to the setup in certain position but when you sit or stand up and put your guitar in playing position, it changes.
· The wood block can be customize with any piece of wood, a saw and some sandpaper. I have one for two guitars that I have (sand paper two faces of the block).
· Before intonation, by the way you did a fantastic job mention how to do it properly and with the correct tools,I advise to first take the old strings, clean the guitar, put the new strings, tune it to pitch, check the relief of the neck, check the pickups height and then the intonation.
· When putting new strings, release the springs just a little bit, lock the bridge by putting some thin enough pieces of wood underneath the base plate of the bridge but just to lock the strings and putting some tension on them, because it is a struggle to move the bridge with the tremolo bar every time you put and string and lock it due springs tension, specially for beginners on this.
Everything else, OH MAN! You are on point :) Greetings from Mexico.
This is correct,.. I've found the same thing,.. especially on guitars/necks that are thin.
Tienes toda la razón, yo lo aprendí del técnico de Steve Vai. El explica del porqué hay que setear la guitarra en la posición de cómo se toca
exactamenteeee, te sorprendería la cantidad de ``técnicos `` he visto ajustar guitarras en su mesa de trabajo, y a la hora de tomar la guitarra siempre están mal ajustadas
It’s so refreshing to finally see someone setting up a Floyd Rose properly I’ve watched many videos and this is the only one that has got it right
Total hog5hit, there was zero tips on spring tension
Technically it's not correct.
Fat Lip any RUclips videos on spring tension for setting up a FR that you recommend please?
Spring tension is the simplest part. I've had my first floyd guitar for a week and I've got it down, tune to whatever you play in after you have your action intonation amd neck relief set then tighten or loosen the springs to where the bridge is parallel to the body while being in tune. It's really simple guys.
@@Ayyem93 You do neck relief first, then the action. But I'd set up the springs before intonating. You don't want to have the bridge at a different angle or height before finishing the intonation, That's just how I'd do it but your method would end up working too. I really agree with you about the spring tension being quite simple. I'm pretty sure I figured it out on my own like 20 years ago when I barely knew what I was doing haha
nothing beats a floyd rose when set up properly!
No doubt!!! Nothing beats a little well set up wang time.
That’s right!
@@davidlongshlong9moya831 I believe you. I totally believe you.
key phrase "...when set up properly".
I like the fact i can beat the hell out of it and stay in tune.
I'm a Floyd Rose newbie so this vid is a must see for me. Thanks SG you rock!
The diagonal set-up of the tremolo springs, in this video allows them to maintain a higher tension of the outside springs, preventing the need to tighten the screws excessively or adding a fourth spring. Many luthiers recommend this approach to spring set-up. Great video! Thanks for offering your tools to the world!
Everytime I've tried the diagonal setup with three springs it's causes tuning issues when using the Floyd. I see it so often but I've never got that to work.
That's how you sell products. Watched the video, went straight to your webstore and bought the block set and intonation tool. A bit pricey but it'll be worth it. I remember what a pain in the ass changing strings and intonation used to be on my Jackson back in the 90's.
Bierball 90’s Jackson’s ahhhh the good old days!!!
Same. Went straight to the site and bought his tools!
“A bit pricey “?! $35 for an intonation tool?? Really??
Yep. "Me too." Going to return the Stew Mac tool when it gets here.
I'm sure you hear this a lot , but fantastic video. Extremely informative , very well paced and professional. Why can't more youtube videos be like this???
DUDE! You just made my day!!! Thank you for taking the time to reach out and share your thoughts. I am a huge YT consumer, so I try to put content out there that I would like to see. Rock on! -Greg
That's a nifty intonation tool. But I stopped using feeler gauges years ago. It's much quicker to just use two fingers one at each end of the fretboard and you could see the relief. I don't you string height measurements either. I lower the action until it buzzes. Then I bring it up until it stops buzzing. That's the maximum lowest action. I call that the Billy Sheehan method, he made it popular .
Hey man thank you for this video and making such great tools. I bought the intonation tool and blocks and it enabled a dummy like me to get it set up.
Right on! Glad to hear it!!! Once you know the steps, it's pretty easy to get these contraptions playing perfectly.
Just bought a jackson randy rhoads with terrible paint job, stripping it down, changing to active. My first floyd rose. Really glad I found this video. Took the scary floyd monsters away.
Cheers
All this time and I never thought to block the trem before tuning up. I sold two amazing Floyd equipped guitars because of the never-ending tuning dilemma when all I had to do was block the trem. This video is a godsend!
Glad the video helped! Time to grab another FR equipped guitar!!!
Just started watching this vid - man, this is how you do it. Lay out all the tools, give a brief explain of them. As a former mechanic, I appreciate this greatly. Looking forward to the rest of it, and I will buy your tool for sure (pretty small - wish it came in a case or bag or something). Also subbed up.
Great video! I used a Sharpie pen instead of a 9v battery for a trem wedge, worked really well. I found that if the Sharpie wasn't big enough I could add a guitar pic until the trem was flat.
Just got my first Floyd Rose today. Thank you Very Much for the vid and I'll be buying one of those tools, maybe one for a friend too!
I've struggled with Floyd Rose style tremolos for so long and have sold guitars simply because I couldn't get them set up and tuned properly on my own. I bought a new Ibanez with a double locking trem, followed your instructions (with my own makeshift block) and got it set up perfectly. Thanks!! I'll be buying a proper block for my guitool box. I''m going to recommend this video to anyone and everyone.
Well glad to have you back on the dark side, I feel the pain but I never sold my guitar, my jem jr is now 8 months old I started playing 10 months ago. After buying my jem jr it’s been a massive pain in the ass. It’s been “professionally set up” twice. After the last time a few days ago I thought everything was good, it wasn’t until the next day the intonation was off again. Replaced the strings, adjusted the truss rod, adjusted pickup height and action height of the strings and had to take apart the internals and found springs stuck under the pickups not even on the screw posts to raise the pickups. The pickups aren’t level still, can’t tell if the guitar needs a little chipping away in that specific cavity or if it’s caused by the faceplate. What I do Know is that with them basically all flat against the guitar it’s fixed a lot of shitty sounds like the G string sounding like a damn banjo. Idk why or how I’ve put up with this when I’ve got 2 guitars that are way brighter quality but just suck to play because they don’t feel good in my hands. The schecter is close to my Ibanez but the neck is slightly thicker, but the main issue is that I drop tuned it and all the songs the app uses are drop d or eb. Probably for the best. It’s way easier coming up with Melodie’s and rhythm with my drop tuned guitar. Just feels so natural, my gretsch just weighs a lot and makes me not wanna touch it either. My fender acoustic I only use for recording specific parts but I hate that fender or any fender for that matter. Every fender thing I own is broken except the acoustic. But I just don’t enjoy acoustic playing. The sounds are lovely but it lacks everything I enjoy about guitar.
I'm new to setting up my Ibanez w FloydRose type trem... wish I'd watched this 2 weeks ago! Purchased the intonation tool and fret rocker today. Live here in Westminter. Thank you Thank you Thank you!
Good luck with your Ibanez! The edge system is one of the better trems out there.
This becomes an easy job with the right tools! Thanks for putting this together - just purchased a set from you!
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Beautiful work, setup, and tools. Checking out the store!
Your video and tools make dealing with a Floyd Rose almost fun. Bravo 👏 sir.
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About to install my first floyd rose in a washburn g - iv so very glad I've found your video. Thank you.
Good luck!
cutler568 which was burn do you have?
Best vid on this process that I’ve seen. And I’ve seen many. Will be checking your site for sure.
Thank you Keith!
I just purchased a used Ibanez JS100 in great condition - EXCEPT for the Floyd Rose set-up, that was almost unplayable. Greg's video, plus his tuning blocks, made the major part of set-up really straightforward. The intonation tool that I also purchased from Skyscraper is obviously of really high precision quality. I've not previously dared tamper with intonation, but with the right tool, it's easy!Thanks Greg, for helping us simplify maintenance, and focus on PLAYING! Cheers!
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Stupendous...thanks much....never saw anyone put strings on "backwards" so to speak with the colored metal loop ends on the head.....cool....may try that.
You Sir, are the man! So love the tools, the process you shared is spot on for me, 5-5 on FR Trems. Invaluable...EVERYONE! Support this guys knowledge, buy something!!
I love that you gave other options other than your product for those that don't have extra money currently! Thank you. Will probably buy a Trem Wedge in the future though.
Thanks for that, I’ve never used a block before on my floyd rose, so it’s a game changer for me.
Hopefully this technique will start to take away all those years of frustration!
Pretty cool intonation tool! Looks much easier to use and sturdy than the classic one.
Best tutorial for this I've seen and to the point. Too many 45-60 minutes videos I've watched where they don't even touch on intonation. This is great. And your intonation tool is out of stock on your website. Do you know when more will be available?
Thanks for the kind words! We have a batch of intonation tools on their way to anodize right now. We should have them available in about 2 weeks. You can use the contact form on our website and I can put you on the notification list when they are ready. (sorry, YT doesn't allow DMs anymore...) www.skyscraperguitars.com/contact
Thanks, nice tips! I have an Edge Zero II trem but you give very good tips. I could think of two advantages of having the springs straight, but I honestly don't believe it makes a noticeable difference in the sound. Like you say, you explain how you do it. Thanks again!
I've heard of some people doing that, but I don't understand why. I see you have an option, because the holes are there, but what difference does it make having the springs straight?
You video was very professional, and informative. Maybe the best Floyd Rose video I have seen to date ! Now I am heading to your website...
My guitars are on stands and collecting dust too Greg..lol...I'm diggin' the intonation tool mate but won't work on the Jackson licenced Floyd Rose...Have a good one mate.
Thanks Ziggy!
Just bought that intonation tool from your link. Looks awesome! Got your ebook, too. Great stuff. Thanks for making this available. Subscribed.
🙏 Let me know if you have any questions and I'll be happy to help. Rock on! -Greg
Didn't know you can buy those blocks now, always made my own.👍🤘
If you are tuning the guitar laying flat, it is going to be out of tune when you have it in playing position due to gravity.
I just purchased a Schecter Reaper 6 with a licenced Floyd Rose and a BC Rich Mockingbird with an original Floyd Rose. I have always played Les Paul guitars so the Floyd has been a nightmare for me.
I saw this and purchased the kit just over a week ago and cannot wait until it arrives here to me in the UK
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Excellent video! I've had a Floyd guitar(Jackson reverse dinky) for 25+ years, and its nice to learn a new trick or two about easier ways to set them up. One thing I've always wondered. On "regular" guitars with a bone or plastic nut, people always go on about filing and setting the nut height. With a Floyd, its steel, and you never see anyone adjusting the height. Are they just that accurate because they are machined? Also, mine doesn't have that extra bar behind the nut, and now I see why I need one. When I put new strings, I put the fine tuners all the way out, then 1 turn in because after tuning and all that, when I tighten the nut locks, it makes the note sharp and sometimes I have to turn them out. That extra bar probably prevents that by keeping the strings flat against the nut. I will definitely be using your "ball end on the tuners side" technique. Genius!
You'll find shims under a lot of FR nuts. The nice thing for factories is that they don't have to file them, so as long as you are consistent with production, they should all sit perfectly on the neck. Over time, they don't wear nearly as much as a bone nut since the strings are clamped. As for the clamps and going sharp. The key is "snug". You don't have to make the clamps tight, just snug. It takes very little pressure to keep the guitar from slipping out of tune. That said, I always plan on the strings going just a tick sharp... Tis the nature of the beast. Take care and thanks for the great comment!!! Greg
Y’all have some awesome videos and all your products are untouchable. Top notch!
Bought the little intonation tool. Very well made and does exactly what it says on the tin. Thank you.
🙏🧡 Thank you!
@@SkyscraperGuitars I'd like to state again, because it's not really evident from the video, just how well this little tool is made. Tiny little thing, but beautifully machined, you just want to take it out of the packet and hold it when it arrives.
This is great!! My order a set of 4xTrim Block plus Intonation and it arrived in 3 days. Thank You, man! Now I do all the Floyd Rose tremolo guitars setup and restring like a Pro.
Thank you man. What a generous upload. I have been stressed about this kind of diy project given the value of these guitars like the Kramer and the Charvels. Bravo guitar mentor. Great ad lib too; really a great tutorial and educational film.
Take your time. You'll be stoked when your favorite old shred guitar is ripping!!!
The trem block is incredible. If you don’t have one …. Get one it’s super helpfully
Great video man. I bought the intonation tool and the trem blocks and set up my dean ml using this method and it came out great. All my buddies want me to set up their Floyds now lol
Awesome! You now have the blessing/curse of knowing how it's done!!! I can't tell you how many friends I've helped out over the years... Its amazing how easy it can be to take a guitar from o.k. to outstanding.
@@SkyscraperGuitars agreed thanks again man 👌
Very cool. Just purchased your intonation tool and wedges. Thanks!
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when checking for neck relief make sure to put the capo on at the first fret and not push at the last fret as some fretboard have a slight decline near the very end (rule of thumb 1 fret before the last fret)
EagleOD1 I like to put a capo at fret one the press around the 18 fret. Or where the neck meets the body.
I’ve been doing it wrong. It worked , thanks for the video!
Glad it helped!!!
I have one of these and I'll have to say it works like a charm.
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That Skyscraper gizmo you created seems like the only logical choice to do this process. I wasn't entirely sure what to do with adjusting that little bolt on the saddle, then somehow moving the saddle forward/backwards appropriately without it flying away lol. I've changed strings/tunings to the point where I'm in bad shape as far as intonation. My hardtail guitar is so simple with only 1 easy screw to adjust :p
I did a "setup" from stock 9s to 10s doing the see-saw and spring dance once. Don't know how I finally got it, but I did.
I'll never do it that way again though. I wanted to throw my new guitar out of the window. Just ordered a set of the blocks now, and I already have my Pick Pocket tool ready.
Nice video. I’ve just got my first FR equipped guitar (a Squier Stagemaster V1) and it desperately needs setting up
Floyds are great once you know how to work with them.
Mate, I loved this video! Great tutorial and I love your on-screen presence! You've made it entertaining, shared knowledge and kept it fun. As someone who has struggled with Floyd's in the past, thank you! Subscribed and I will be getting those trem blocks too :) Cheers!
Right on! Thanks for the kind words.
The biggest problem I have with my Floyd Rose is the B string always seems to buzz in its locking nut groove. I can't seem to remedy it. Here's a tip from me about changing strings. I find changing one at a time is best. For example: De-tune the old bass E. Then take it off. Replace with the new bass E and re-tune. Then take the old A off replace with the new A and then re-tune. Etc.
great video I was going crazy with my Floyd rose on my avenger extremely helpful
Good luck Jerry! If you run into any trouble, just reach out.
6:26 man I don't care what anybody anywhere who has played or worked on guitars for at least 90 years will say, I truly think having the bridge slightly pulled like that is the best way to have your floyd setup. It, for whatever reason, seems to stay in tune the best for me. I always adjusted the claw to bring the bridge plate parallel with the guitar body, but it somehow has not been as reliable as keeping that slight tilt to have an extra little edge on the strings. Maybe it's because my string saddles kind of point upwards, so this evens things out. I have a Floyd Rose Special, btw.
I agree - I also prefer having the bridge in that position. I also took a chance on the Fender Tremsetter, and was not disappointed. The Tremsetter used in combination with an authentic Floyd Rose locking nut keeps the strings in perfect tune no matter how much or often I use the tremolo. I’m using a custom installed ‘licensed’ Floyd Rose with no issues. As long as the locking nut is the real deal, and you use a Tremsetter, an $18 Floyd Rose works out fine.
Can't wait just purchased finally I can adjust my Floyd without guessing thank you & yes I cuss they key.
I don't even bother blocking up my Floyd Rose when tuning. I just put the strings on and tighten them to similar tension until the Floyd Rose is parallel with the body, which is where it should be if setup properly. Start tuning: some strings will be sharp, others flat...just do a "slop" tune to get them close. If the tension on your claw is correct, you should now be fairly close on the tuning....this will avoid that never ending see saw you speak of. Now you can fin tune it like you would any guitar. Of course as the strings stretch and snug up around the tuning machines, you'll have to do this a couple times...but that's the same with any guitar.
Isn't that basic standard string changing procedure? Do one at a time, tune to pitch, stretch it and retune till it stays in, then move on to the next string
@@stilllifewithguitar184 Most people's problem with the Floyd Rose is that they have to tune, retune, retune again...forever until the bridge is balanced. And I don't even do one string at a time. I take them all off at once and put all of the new ones on. The tricky part (if you haven't used a Floyd Rose) is that you have to tighten all of the strings evenly until the bridge is floating parallel to the body BEFORE you bother tuning it, to avoid that never ending tuning cycle. Also, if you change tuning or string gauge, you will also need to adjust the claw. Which should be true for any tremolo, but the outcome is much more severe if you don't adjust the claw in a Floyd Rose. None of this applies to a stop tail piece. So I would say no, it is not that same as any string changing procedure. Which is why most people get fed up and think their Floyd Rose is broken or crappy...which it is not. It is by far the most reliable tremolo I have ever used, when used properly.
I do the same by bridge stays level every time
@@ivankrushensky you are completely wrong.
You didn't watch the video did you? You are doing it extremely inefficiently. Tuning string "close" to balance the trem is the whole problem.
1. Block the trem.
2. Replace and Tune all 6 to pitch.
3. Stretch strings.
4. Tune all 6 again.
5. Lock both ends, bridge and nut.
6. Un-block the trem.
7. Screw claw in until tuning comes back to pitch.
8. DONE.
Any other way is less efficient. And guessing.
@@ryans9029 okay...wish I knew who you actually were and lived by you. We could have a race. Done it both ways. You don't need a block if you know what you're looking at and how a tremolo works. Sorry. You just don't. An Allen wrench and strings of the SAME gauge. That's all you need.
Nice Kramer. Had a 84 , with rounded head stock tip. Candy apple red. First good guitar i ever owned.
I I wish you go more into detail on how you set your intonation
Great tutorial! Buying the pick pocket. no way am I wasting more time on intonation
If you have any questions, just reach out! 🙏🧡
Wow bro you do everything exactly the way i do so crazy like your style
I been doing setups since about1993 and seen many done and watched hundreds of videos and I could never do setups accurately unless I do the entire job in playing position on my lap!! Gravity pulls and playing position is best
Thanks for this video. Thanks also for the FREE e-book. I saw another video like this with the sustain block's tension springs being adjusted and voila, it's in tune and intonated. I must give you higher marks for depth of instruction and production value of your video. Besides being mesmerized by that cool tuner, why did you tune/intonate with the old strings, get rid of them, then start again with new strings?
I always "rough in" the setup with old strings if I can. That way I know if everything works before I blow a new set of strings. Also, I can play the guitar after the adjustments and see if there is a high fret or something else that will need repair. If I changed the strings first, then I'd have to throw them away if I had to take them off for a fret repair... I usually rough in, then change strings, then let the guitar sit for a day or two, then go back through everything and make sure it's still happy. I hope that answers your question!
GREAT VIDEO! I LOVE that intonation tool! Where can I get one? At your store? I have been using a tiny hammer to gently tap the saddle forward. This is so much better. subbed.
Yes. We have them on www.skyscraperguitars.com/store. If you have any questions at all, just reach out. There is a contact form on the website and the questions come directly to me. -Greg
I just ordered the intonation tool.
15:50 just put an eraser under the bridge to hold it in place its a lot easier then pushing the bar down while trying to put the strings in
Good tip! Last time I used the tapered wood shims you get at the hardware store (they're actually for fitting windows into a framed wall), they are soft wood and bridge across the rout. I'll try your eraser trick next time.
@@5000rgb No worries good luck mate!
Also take not of where the guitar is tuned with the eraser under there
Thanks dude! Your tutorial is top notch!
Thanks, I appreciated this video enough to order the intonation tool and I just received it today. It's going not make intonation that Floyd Rose a lot easier. The Floyd does have it's advantages on my PRS Custom 24, but sometimes I wish I had just put a Bigsby on instead.
Hey man. I got my first Floyd last week after like 10 years of playing hard tail. Man its rough. I am doing everything myself and I almost destroyed the guitar. The floyd flew out off the posts cuz I took out a spring and damaged some wood. That being said I put it back together and learned a lot. Then I was going flat a lot when locked in after wammy abuse. Finally got through that by stretching strings more, tightening nut, and oiling the knife edge. One of my screws into the wood that installs the nut is stripped but not seeming to have an adverse affect right now. I feel mentally exhausted lol. I am exerting actual effort making sure I don't get negative. I think with time I will come to the true appreciation of the floyd. I took it to a tech and he fine tuned the intonation, neck relief, bridge height, and tension. He said I did good, but he made it perfect. Just the visual aesthetic of these guitars is so awesome so I will continue on learning about the floyd. I absolutely love your Kramer. I already told myself a S-S-H or just a neck S and bridge H floyd guitar is my next axe like the one you have. I got a Ibanez 1527 and I'm loving it (besides the work lol). Any advice? I see people work on it and it just seems so fluid and effortless meanwhile it seems like everything I do is labored and takes hours to materialize good results with a floyd lol.
You're in a good spot... You've got your guitar set up and working good... That makes it WAY easier for the next time. When it looks easy, that means someone has put in a TON of time getting good at something... We've all been there though. I can remember wrestling my guitar for DAYS trying to get it to play right. This was before I knew all the little tricks... I do a full setup once or twice a year depending on how the guitar plays. If it's playing good, no setup needed. If the action changes, I start with the truss rod and move on from there. Most of the string changes are simple. Loosen the springs, change strings, block, tune, stretch, tune, lock, adjust springs, enjoy!
@@SkyscraperGuitars I appreciate the encouragement. I subscribed and will continue to learn. Post more vids with the Kramer :) that thing is beautiful. Thanks and have a good day!
@@TheMLGTrashCompactor The old Kramer is my #1, so it finds it's way into a lot of content!
Its so Awesome to see how you use the tool! Great video GP!
Tom, you do an incredible job of working with the crazy designs I come up with and turning them into the best luthier tools available on planet earth. I constantly get comments about the quality of the SSG tools and you are the reason people's jaws drop when they open their packages. I couldn't make these tools a reality without you.
Cool, now I know what those things were for that Tom was makin' 👍👍
Yes Greg. Tom does an incredible job machining everything for SkyScraper.
Just ordered a trem wedge, excites to put it to use 😁
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I recently bought one of your intonation tools
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Cool video..... killer Kramer.
Always a good idea to stash away a few of those seldom used 2.5mm Allen Wrenches!
Yes!
Would like see you set up a peavey Wolfgang special! I tried putting strings on it for the first time and I screwed the action up on it can’t get it back the way it was
So I have this ocd where i just love seeing things in order. Today o got my guitar that i stashed years ago. I saw that the small intonation thingamajigs we're all uneven so I made them all flush. Boy i did not know what a shit of a mess i did when I made those adjustments and that's why I am here now.
I am ORDERING that tool ASAP
I really like your tool. I have an early 90’s Charvel 375 Deluxe with a Schaller Floyd Rose and the barrel style string lock bolts so the key does not work with my guitar at since it relies on the longer screw type.
This is an awesome video! Just what i needed. I just broight home my fender squire stagemaster with dual bucks. Nice sounding git-fiddle and plays well too. Took forever figuring out how to change strings and tune it back. 😒 but I won! Will your intonation tool work for mine? It appears it will. Oh my tuner is the tc electronic poly tuner which has a strobe function. As well as my tuner of my tc electeonic bh250 which is also a pretty soild tuner. You opinion on using those?
I just a zippo and a Allen wrench to block the bridge, something I always carry.
IMO the neck rest should be closer to the body. When it's so far back toward the headstock and the rest of the guitar is not supported, the weight of the body will press down on the neck pressing the headstock forward and creating bowing where there normally wouldn't be in playing position, leading to tightening the truss rod more than it should be and getting fret buzz. I know you said you're just getting an estimate at first but it can easily be fixed by just having the neck rest further up towards the higher frets where there won't be any neck bending.
Love this tool! Just ordered it and a block!
Thank you! 🙏
If you are adjusting the truss rod and its been a while spray some degrippant in before you attempt it. If the truss rod hasn't been adjusted for a while and it breaks you have a problem!
Nice tool, I wasn't aware of it, just one thing, you intonate with the old strings then replace them and don't intonate again?
I go through EVERYTHING again with the new strings. I usually let it rest a day, then check, then rest another day and check again. The rough-in with old strings is usually 95%+. The adjustments from there on are usually very minor.
Does it work with Gotoh bridges?
I have the same issues when bending strings lol. They all out all the time.
Awesome, such a good resource. incredible tools
Regarding how you have your springs set up in a “V” pattern, if anyone gives you crap about it, let them know that in Floyd Rose’s original patent illustration, that is the way he drew it up. That tells you that is how he designed it and intended for them to be setup.
I've never seen that drawing. I'll have to search for it in the googlator.
First..I really like your videos. As a luthier, to give away your secrets is surprising and refreshing. Thank you. Next..I work on super high precision things all the time. I'm a manufacturing engineer and design equipment. I also have to design setup tools and qc fixtures. So seeing thousandths of an inch is normal for me. I have a question.. does setting up in playing position really matter? If you measure string height flat on the bench then hold in playing position, is there a measurable difference? I have $10 that it doesn't.. but just in case I'll say it does, but not enough to make it go out of spec. Because specs are usually a range.. not one specific number. Thank you!
Yes and no. Some guitars are more sensitive than others. String height is not usually affected by position enough to matter. Relief, intonation and tuning tend to matter in about 5% of the guitars I've seen. Basses are affected more than 6 strings... Acoustics are also more sensitive. You could probably get away with never checking in playing position on solid body electrics, but I always like to be positive that I've nailed it, so I do all my final inspections in playing position. Strangely enough, straps matter sometimes.
@@SkyscraperGuitars Wow! The strap?? I've seen you work in your videos, and listen to what you're saying, so I believe anything you say! Unless it's about a bridge for sale...
I might have to buy some tools from you. I just bought a 2017 Schecter Omen Extreme FR. After watching your video i immediately noticed that the fr is pitched down.. down being towards the pushing the bar down direction. I need to do a proper setup. Where are you located? I'm in western NY, Fairport NY to be exact. Thank you for the reply:)
Keep up the great work!
When you have the two outer trem springs splayed-out, that means they are under more tension than the middle spring, all three of them should really be set so they are parallel to each other, so that they have an equal amount of tension on them, otherwise the middle spring won't be doing much and may have a tendency to fall out of the trem-block when doing pull-ups, if that happens all the strings will go flat when the bridge is returned to it's neutral position (the bridge will actually end up sitting so it's angled forward rather than parallel to the top of the guitar body).
Do you recommend put all the springs parallel and not like the V position?
Its preference. I've heard others say the springs will pop out. I've been playing Floyds since the 80s with 2 angled and one straight. I have yet to have that happen. I suspect using German parts is a big piece of that success... As I said in the video, I put them straight for customers unless they request the V formation. For me I like the V but it probably has more to do with superstition than anything... Take a look at the backs of famous guitar player's guitars... It's everywhere on the pro circuit and it always has been... That doesn't mean its right, just means that a lot of players do it.
I just got a brand new Jackson V on Saturday and was kinda surprised that the springs were factory positioned in the V formation.
Finally, someone who does their string with the balls at the headstock like I do.
That technique will eventually put burrs in your string posts.
cool guitar. how much do you sell the intonation tool for? thats a genius tool you invented there. i sure would like to buy one from you. excellent video brother.
They are $30 here: skyscraperguitars.com/store/#!/Tremolo-Setup-Tools/c/25043259/offset=0&sort=normal Thanks for the kind words. Rock on! -Greg
Awesome video, GP! Makes me wish I had a Floyd equipped guitar.
Thanks Aaron. Maybe you can add an FR equipped PRS to your hoard!
Thank you! Just ordered some goodies from ya~!
I just saw your order come in. We will be shipping everything out to you later today! Thank you!!! 🙏
I just got a new guitar yesterday in the mail. I'm a beginner and I didn't know what a floyd rose was until I tried tuning it. I'm having a very difficult time tuning it. U think u can make a how to tune a floyd rose for dummies video ?
I'm sure it's obvious in the video, but you set the intonation BEFORE you lock down the nut? I've heard conflicting opinions on this, but I don't see how it's possible to do it after you clamp it. Great video!
Intonation is set before the locking nut are on. When you put the lockers on, they don't affect the string length. One could argue that they change the stiffness of the string somehow because you're holding the string rigidly instead of free, but I've never double checked the intonation and had an issue because the locking nuts were or were not in place. I hope that helps!
Master class!! Thank you so much!
Awesome video. And thank you for sharing your tips..💙👍
Hi.I Like the look of the intonation tool. Do you ship internationally (UK)?
Yes of course "The Key" works under string tension! What good would it be if it didn't???
Exactly my point. You have to detune, adjust, retune, check, detune, adjust, etc. It's just as easy to work without one. I've got a pile of broken "KEYS" from trying to use them under string tension.
That will save many tech's a bunch of pulling their hair out Lol. Good stuff GP. \m/ \m/
No doubt. Thanks Jerry.
Very Nice. Learn something everyday. Why would you not order a SkyScraper? Plus, It's cheaper to order direct. Play On!