Clover Tuners vs. Y-Key Tuners

[AntAir267]

Hello Everybody! I have a question. I've been browsing basses online for the past week and have always noticed the expensive ones (I.E. Over $700) have clover tuners versus the cheaper ones using y-key tuners.(Also, a lot of the tuner upgrades I've seen done to Squier's always changed out the y-keys for clovers.)

Is there any reason for this? Are y-keys cheaper to make? Is it some sort of unspoken rule to have clovers on nicer basses?

[Zooberwerx]

Originally Posted by AntAir267

Hello Everybody! I have a question. I've been browsing basses online for the past week and have always noticed the expensive ones (I.E. Over $700) have clover tuners versus the cheaper ones using y-key tuners.(Also, a lot of the tuner upgrades I've seen done to Squier's always changed out the y-keys for clovers.)

Is there any reason for this? Are y-keys cheaper to make? Is it some sort of unspoken rule to have clovers on nicer basses?

Not even close. Some very nice, expensive basses (Sadowsky, Lakland) sport cloverleafs....MTD USA uses Y's, so do my Dingwalls. Some use 3/8", others use 1/2". Whatever looks / works best!

Riis

[AntAir267]

Well, I sort of meant as typically, most mainstream basses use this system. (I.E. Fender and Gibson)

[prd004]

I think a lot of custom builders go with the clover style because they are tying to capture the vintage vibe. Good tuners are good tuners, use the ones that look best to you.

[loinmute]

My German made Sperzel locking tuners are of the "Y" variety.

[dontplaydead27]

Yeah I think the Clover is more for the vintage. I prefer the Y, and I really don't like the lollipop kind.