What to look for in machine heads?

[Doctor Roberts]

Hi all! I was considering replacing the machine heads on my BTB845 Ibanez just for the color.

However, since it is not a small investment, I was wondering what exactly are tuning machines responsible for in the whole tuning process (in case some tuning issues could be misattributed to tuning machines), and what one should look for in a good tuning machine, to be clear if I could get something more than a change of color (or not).

Thank you!

 

[micguy]

Worm gear tuning machines all work pretty well - they really can't slip like some folks think they do. Most tuning issues are a result of not knowing how to put strings on a bass, or friction elsewhere in the string path - not from the tuners. You want tuners that operate smoothly, and that aren't godawful heavy. I'm partial to Hipshpt ultralites (the USA version is lighter than the licensed offshore version). They come in black, nickel, gold, and chrome versions, in several shapes. If you order them from Hipshot directly, they cost a bit more than ordering through a dealer, but they come much faster.

 

[Zooberwerx]

Hi all! I was considering replacing the machine heads on my BTB845 Ibanez just for the color.

However, since it is not a small investment, I was wondering what exactly are tuning machines responsible for in the whole tuning process (in case some tuning issues could be misattributed to tuning machines), and what one should look for in a good tuning machine, to be clear if I could get something more than a change of color (or not).

Thank you!

What finish? I have both HipShot Ultralites and Gotoh Res-o-lites on my Ibanez basses...all 3/8"...all gold. If budget is an issue, the HipShots have a lic'd import available. The scalloped buttons on the Gotohs are a nice touch.

Riis