String Trees...

[BigSteve22]

I used staggered Hipshot tuners on my recent Strat build, but the low action height, (<.060" @ the 12th fret, low E side and just shy of .050" on the high side), leaves me wanting a little more break angle over the nut on the high E and B strings.

I don't like the design of normal string trees because the nature of friction dictates that they will not allow the string to move correctly. I was surfing around looking for alternatives and found "DYNAGUIDE.NL". The design seems so simple that I feel like an idiot for not thinking of it myself!

Anyone have experience with these?  http://www.dynaguide.nl/

 

[Cagey]

I solve the string tree problem by not using them at all. They were originally designed to compensate for poorly made nuts. If you have a properly made nut, they aren't necessary. But, if one insisted on having a tree in place or simply wanted to fill a pre-existing hole in the headstock, that's certainly a clever solution.

 

[stratamania]

I have low action and Hipshot staggered tuners with no string trees.

You mention low action at the 12th fret is leading you to want more break angle. If low action is the only factor involved do you actually need more break angle ?

 

[dmraco]

Those are cool, but I agree with other.  Will a string tree lower your action??

I to like the new staggered tuners....work very well with no need to trees

 

[BigSteve22]

The nut is great. After setting things up myself, I had a Pro tweak the nut to get the open chords in proper tune. After the slots were lowered, and having mainly played tilt head guitars, the break angle looked a little shallow to me. My thinking was that an increased break would translate into a little more sustain. (Not that its got any troubles in that department, I just figured hey, more is usually better.)

Anyway, I did an experiment using masking tape to simulate a tree. No difference, the sustain remains the same. (Sorry for the bad pun.)

Thanks for the input.

 

[stratamania]

Good to hear, but I can see if your used to angled heads how a Strat or Tele type neck looks kind of flat.

 

[dmraco]

The nut is great. After setting things up myself, I had a Pro tweak the nut to get the open chords in proper tune. After the slots were lowered, and having mainly played tilt head guitars, the break angle looked a little shallow to me. My thinking was that an increased break would translate into a little more sustain. (Not that its got any troubles in that department, I just figured hey, more is usually better.)

Anyway, I did an experiment using masking tape to simulate a tree. No difference, the sustain remains the same. (Sorry for the bad pun.)

Thanks for the input.

sustain I can see....action...no.

I hate when the nuts are not cut correct and you get that sitar like buzz

 

[BigSteve22]

My only previous experience with a non-angled headstock is my '64 Hagstrom which has a full width, Floyd type tree. I've quickly gotten used to the Strat, and I like it! Next build gonna be a Jazzmaster, already started planning and buying.