• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Quick question MM tuners

stonetone7

stonetone7

Oct 26, 2017
338
839
Harrisburg, Pa.
#1
Hey folks,

Wondering if anyone can confirm that Hipshot HB1 tuners will directly replace stock on a new Indonesian Sterling SUB? Mostly concerned about hole diameter and not having to drill.

Not having any trouble with the stock tuners, just my dumbass self who knocked it off its stand. The paddle on the treble side tuner popped out of its crimp. I’ve since crimped it back, and it’s functional, but the shaft is also ever so slightly bent.

Deciding whether I can abide that will be greatly helped by knowing whether or not I can just drop a new one in there with minimal fuss.

Thanks for your time!
 
#2
HB7 is the direct replacement. HB1 will fit if you keep the original ferrules in place - HB1 is a 17mm hole, SBMM and HB7 are 17.5mm.
The HB1 has a different hole configuration, but covers the original holes.
I put HB1 on my Ray34. If you do go HB1, I would suggest short key option, which is more in keeping with the MM look...
20190120_141147.jpg
 
#3
Awesome, thank you for the help, although it’s a little surprising that the SBMM Ray4 SUB series tuners can be directly replaced by tuners (HB7s) meant for so many Fenders.

I like the idea of using the short posts of the HB1, but I’m just a little wary of drilling new holes into the headstock.
 
  • Like
Reactions: SteveCS
#4
stonetone7 said:
Awesome, thank you for the help, although it’s a little surprising that the SBMM Ray4 SUB series tuners can be directly replaced by tuners (HB7s) meant for so many Fenders.

I like the idea of using the short posts of the HB1, but I’m just a little wary of drilling new holes into the headstock.
Click to expand...

It's easy with a small hand drill. Just put some tape or an elastic band around the bit as a depth guide!
The HB1 plate will expose any scarring caused by the original plate - look closely between D and A below, so if you can't live with that then HB7 is the way to go. But as you can see, the original holes are completely covered, and I didn't bother filling them.
20191206_131744.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: stonetone7
#5
So, if I go with the HB7, roughly how much further can I expect the long keys to protrude beyond what you’re showing above?

I’m not too worried about scarring, although it’s a satin finish on my bass, so maybe that’ll make it more pronounced.

Anyway, thanks again for so being so helpful!
 
#6
stonetone7 said:
So, if I go with the HB7, roughly how much further can I expect the long keys to protrude beyond what you’re showing above?

I’m not too worried about scarring, although it’s a satin finish on my bass, so maybe that’ll make it more pronounced.

Anyway, thanks again for so being so helpful!
Click to expand...

Don't know for sure, but I think they're comparable to what you have.
The Hipshot drawing says 3.25" overall length, and the tuners I took of my Ray34 are also 3.25", but I think they are not quite the same as the Ray4/SUB version.
20191206_142248.jpg

20191206_142611.jpg
 
#9
stonetone7 said:
OK great, think I got all I need for an informed decision. Now I just gotta decide whether I wanna add any more holes to the bass.

Thanks again again, you’ve been so helpful!
Click to expand...
What did you wind up doing? I'm in the same position you were in. I am keen on the short key of the HB1, but what about the ferrules? Do the fctory ones look cheap compared to the new metal of the hipshots? Thanks.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back