The Hipshot Tremsetter

In a previous article, we looked at blocking a Floyd Rose type bridge to eliminate some of its unwanted characteristics.

The Hipshot Trem Setter is a brilliant alternative to blocking the bridge. (or getting rid of the Floyd altogether)

Keep in mind too, that the Trem Setters use is not limited to Floyd type bridges only. It can be used on most pivot / fulcrum type systems.

The Trem Setter installs into the back of the guitar, in most cases replacing the middle trem spring. Using a spring driven system, this little device attempts to make sure that your bridge comes back to its 'zero-point' after whammy use. Returning to this 'zero-point' is one of key things in ensuring that your Floyd stays in tune.

Below is a Tremsetter fully installed:

Here are some of the advantages:

1. The guitar is easier to get in tune and keep in tune.
2. Depending on how you adjust the Trem Setter, double stop bends or drone notes played over a string bend will stay in tune.
3. Once set up, there are virtually no more adjustments to make if you keep your string brand and gauge the same.
4. The guitar stays in tune even after some hefty whammy abuse!
5. The bridge is a lot more stable, and this makes intonating as well as re-stringing a breeze.
6. Raising and lowering of pitch is possible with the Whammy bar.

Here are one or two very minor 'disadvantages':

1. Trem flutter is eliminated, so if that is a whammy effect that you like, you will have to do without it to get the benefits of a stable bridge.
2. The trem becomes slightly stiffer when in use. Some may find this a problem, personally, I found, one gets used to it and compensates accordingly.

One thing that must be mentioned (which can't really be listed as a disadvantage) is that if you break a string, your guitar will go out of tune as is the case with unmodified locking systems

Installation: This device is not at all difficult to install and adjust. All required parts are provided in the package. Please do note that fitting this device involves drilling into the guitar. (this is very minor as you are basically drilling another trem claw screw hole between the existing holes) It does mean however that you need the tools to be able to create a hole like this.

In Summary: For those of you who like the functions of a locking trem system, but don't like the high maintenance, difficult tuning and stability issues, try a Hipshot Tremsetter on your guitar. This is a great alternative to trem blocking, as this device allows pitch raising too. 

All in all a great little device that, for a small amount of money, save you a lot of frustration and time and gives you many benefits.

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