reducing string tension

[mazhar]

ok, i dunno if it's possible but can the string tension on my DKMG be reduced without changing tuning or to a different gauge..im currently on 9-46's and my friend's ibanez rg1527 plays so much easier and smoother...with the same action and string gauge...could it be cuz of the 7-string neck?? or am i just imagining it? he said he plays around with the spring positions at the back tho. thanks.

[jgcable]

Re: reducing string tension

Lowering the spring tension will lower the string tension. It will also cause more detuning when you bend strings. I prefer a real loose sloppy string tension but because I do alot of double stop bends I am forced to use alot of spring tension to keep the other strings in tune. I am sure you can find a good balance. Just play around with it.

[toejam]

Re: reducing string tension

What John said. [img]/images/graemlins/stupid.gif[/img] Personally, I prefer 4 or 5 springs on my Floyd, as I like the extra tension and stiffness it brings, makes it harder to press the bar down.

[YetAnotherOne]

Re: reducing string tension

The material the strings are made of also makes a difference. Try a set of pure nickel (rather than nickel-wound steel) strings in the same gauge, they definitely feel softer. Ernie Ball and (IIRC) Fender make pure nickel strings.

[mazhar]

Re: reducing string tension

ohh ok..so it is possible...yeah i do use ernie balls..regular slinkies currently. ok so temme this..when i loosen the springs and then tune to E, wont the bridge fall back???

[YetAnotherOne]

Re: reducing string tension

IIRC the regular slinkies are steel w/nickel windings. If you want softer feeling strings you want the classic slinkies that are 100% nickel (nickel w/nickel windings).

[SeventhSon]

Re: reducing string tension

[ QUOTE ]
when i loosen the springs and then tune to E, wont the bridge fall back???

[/ QUOTE ]

No, the trem bridge will actually pitch forward slightly more. There's less tension in the trem springs countering the tension in the strings.

[jgcable]

Re: reducing string tension

Back off the trem claw screws 1/4 turn and retune. That really shouldn't effect the level of your bridge. Also, removing a spring and tightening the trem claw screws will also reduce your string tension. 9-46 gauge should have 3 springs. Straight across placement is the best. 1 on each end and 1 in the middle.