Selecting the Right Locking Machine Heads for Your Guitar
When in search of tuning stability, easy string changes, and overall performance, locking machine heads are a popular choice for many guitarists. If your current set of machineheads are slipping more out of tune than a singer in a Karaoke bar or your string posts have more wraps than a supermarket meal deal then a set of locking machine heads could be for you. This post covers two leading brands—Gotoh and Grover—and compares their different models to help you choose the right locking tuners for your guitar.
Why Locking Machine Heads?
Locking machine heads, or locking tuners, are designed to clamp the string in place, preventing slippage and reducing the number of windings required around the post. This design can lead to improved tuning stability and easier, faster string changes. Many players find these benefits particularly useful on guitars equipped with tremolo systems or for live performances.
Gotoh Locking Machine Heads: Magnum Lock vs. Traditional Magnum Lock
Gotoh SD91 machine heads - both are locking but work in different ways. The tuner on the left is their (MG) Magnum Lock style and the one on the right is their traditional Magnum Lock (MG-T) with a wheel on the back to lock the string into place
Gotoh is known for its precision-made hardware, and its Magnum Lock machine heads are no exception. They offer two distinct models:
Gotoh Traditional Magnum Lock: Simply thread the string through the post, tighten the locking wheel located at the back of the tuner, and voilà – stability achieved. As you turn the wheel at the back, it pushes a small metal pin inside the post upwards, clamping the string in place. This is the traditional locking method as used by Sperzel machine heads as well.
Gotoh Magnum Lock: This system features a clever mechanism inside the tuner post that automatically locks the string in place as you tune. No extra knobs at the back so keeps your locking machine heads looking virtually the same as a regular non-locking set. Simply thread the string through the post, hold the end of the string and pull it taught while you tune up. How does this work? Effectively the string post is split into two parts. The lower portion of the post rotates as you turn the tuner button while the top half remains stationary, held in place by the tension of the string you're securing. This mechanism tightens and clamps the string, ensuring it stays firmly in place.
Grover Locking Machine Heads: Wheel of Fortune vs. Two-Section Clamp
Grover 106 series tuner on the left. Grover 502 Series on the right. Both are locking but note the 502 having the addition of a rotating knurled wheel on the back to lock the string in place.
Moving on to Grover, another titan in the world of guitar locking tuners. Grover gives us options that cater to both the traditionalist and the modern guitarist.
Grover 502 Series: Just like the Gotoh traditional magnum locks, these locking machine heads feature a wheel at the back. You simply thread the string through the post, tighten the wheel, and you’re good to go. The wheel mechanism ensures that your strings are locked in tight, reducing slippage and improving tuning precision.
Grover 106 Series: For those who enjoy a bit more subtle approach to the locking mechanism, the 106 series is the set to get. These tuners have a post that’s split into two sections, and as you tune, the two sections clamp down on the string. Imagine a pair of jaws locking your strings in place – only much friendlier and less terrifying. It’s a marvel of engineering that makes string changes quicker and tuning more stable.
Why Locking Machine Heads?
You might be wondering, “Why go through the trouble of changing my machine heads?” The answer is simple: Guitar Locking Machine Heads and Guitar Locking Tuners offer unparalleled tuning stability and ease of use. Whether you're shredding on stage or noodling in your bedroom, these tuners keep your strings in tune and make string changes a breeze.
Final Notes
Switching to locking machine heads might seem like a small change, but it can make a world of difference. Gotoh and Grover offer excellent options that cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect fit for your guitar. So, go ahead, make the switch, and enjoy the newfound stability and ease. And remember, no matter which brand you choose, your guitar will thank you for it.
Now, go forth and tune with confidence, knowing that your strings are locked down tighter than a drum. Happy playing!