View post ([vibrato arm] [pitch range]..?)

View thread

ChristopherSchlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 08/09/05
Posts: 8,371
ChristopherSchlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 08/09/05
Posts: 8,371
06/01/2023 2:18 pm
#1 Originally Posted by: Whune

so I've a strat... 


that's got the bridge locked down with additional springs...


because I wanted to minimize tuning issues.


Now I want to start playing with the [pitch arm].


I've been informed that there's not just one setting for the bridge [range of pitch change]


What's a good setting to start with?


i like classic rock (60s 70s) but also early rock like the ventures

Hey, good to see you!


The standard Strat style vibrato has 2 primary settings:  decked & floating.  Decked means the bridge plate is set to be flush against the top surface of the guitar.  The result is that you can take the bar down in pitch, but not up.  Floating means the bridge plate is set to allow some upward travel, usually about a 1/16th to an 1/8th of an inch.  There are pros & cons to both.


You set the vibrato system by adding or removing springs in the back cavity and, or adjusting the claw plate the springs are attached to.  The springs & the further the claw plate is screwed in, the more likely the bridge is decked & it's harder to move the bar.  The less springs & the less the claw pate is screwed in, the easier the bar is to move & you get floating (or closer to it until it is floating).


I have most of my Strats bridges decked, but with just enough tension to keep it there.  3 springs & a medium claw plate distance.  The idea is to make easy to move & control the bar, while keeping it decked.  It's less likely to cause intonation & pitch issues when bending & easier to get the action I like.  I do keep one Strat floating just for when I want to do that Ventures type thing.


I have an entire older tutorial on setting & using standard Strat style vibrato systems.


https://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial/1219/


I'm sure Stephen the GT tech can give you more specific instructions on setting it up!


Hope that helps!


Christopher Schlegel
Guitar Tricks Instructor

Christopher Schlegel Lesson Directory