Many of our customers have asked us about how to choose the right tuning machines for their guitars. So, let’s take a look at the important considerations, starting with…
Compatibility
This is the biggest factor that will determine whether you can smoothly install your new guitar tuner on your electric guitar. This includes correct hole and screw position, orientation, and size.
Screw hole placement
Make sure the new tuners are compatible with your guitar's headstock. Tuning machines come with holes at different positions and angles, so you need to ensure they'll fit the existing holes and screw placements.
Peg Placement & Orientation
The "orientation" of your machine heads must match the specs of the guitar headstock. Some guitars feature 3x3 side-mounted keys while others come with six pre-drilled holes for six inline tuners.
For six inline tuners, 6R or 6L?
First, determine if the guitar is right or left-handed. This should be pretty obvious since most right-handed players play right-handed guitars and vice-versa.
Then identify right and left-tuning machines. Different brands have their way of defining L or R, some represent left-side tuners, and some represent left-hand guitars. At Guyker, our 6L is for left-handed guitars and our 6R is for right-handed guitars.
Size
Guitar tuners have different sizes. You need to refer to their specifications and determine whether there's enough space for them to stand in line, whether the string post and hole post fit the hole on the guitar and whether the string post is long enough for the headstock.
Other Factors You Might Want to Consider
Gear Ratio
The gear ratio determines how much the string tension changes with each turn. Higher gear ratios (e.g., 18:1) offer finer tuning adjustments, which can be beneficial for precise tuning. However, lower gear ratios (e.g., 14:1) are easier to turn quickly for initial tuning.
Types and styles
Guitar tuning machines come in different types and styles, e.g., sealed & open-gear tuners, regular & locking tuners, and modern & vintage-style guitar tuners. Take these options into consideration as you choose the right tuner for your guitar.
Material
Tuning machines are typically made from metal (brass, steel) or plastic. Metal tuners offer better durability and stability, plastic tuners are more affordable, and lighter in weight, but not very durable.
Weight
Heavier tuning machines can upset the overall balance of your guitar, especially on instruments with a neck-heavy design.
Aesthetics
Tuning machines come in various finishes (chrome, gold, black) to match your guitar's style. While not the most crucial factor, having matching hardware produces a quality finish.
