constantly retuning

Definitive answer: No

Reason: you are only reducing the tension on the neck slightly going to a D on your bottom string. Even tuning anything down a step isn't going to 'damage' anything but you may find you set-up is off if this has been done in standard E.

 

No. In fact they make replacement tuners with a lever that do this for you so you don't need to mess with it.

http://store.hipshotproducts.com/cart.php?m=product_list&c=6

 

I agree, it's a mental stumbling block of your own.

 

The only people that really see the DeTuner is someone behind you... and that they're a bit heavier than a normal tuner.

 

I think what you are thinking is that the detuner feeds out a set amount of string under tension, and then rewinds it?

It doesn't. The tuner assembly itself pivots. It works EXTREMELY well, and is totally classy.

 

It depends how you flick the lever! If you let it off too quickly you are likely to get hit by the lever. When you tension it back up the very nature of the move is gradual.

As I said before (someone might be able to supply an actual figure) but you are only releasing a very small % of the overall tension on the neck when you de-tune.

 

It also depends on the amount of string tension. I have a few d-tuners installed on various basses - only one of them with high tension flats has that kick you're talking about and even that is relatively minor.

 

No, not at all. I use mine constantly.


Otherwise every strat owner would be screwed, with the trem changing tension all the time.

 

I've got Xtenders for Fender and also the Gotoh's and I find more of a kick on the Gotoh's, but as you say it is not an issue.

 

D'addario XLs 0.100 go from 36.5 pounds at E to 29 at D; 7.5 pounds drop. Total tension for EADG is about 155 pounds; making about a 5% drop in tension.