How to Change the Strings on a Floyd Rose: A Complete Guide to Getting It Right Every Time

The Floyd Rose is a tremolo system that is popular for its tuning stability, but it can seem intimidating when it comes to changing strings. With the right steps, a little patience, and the right tools, you can do it like a pro. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to change your strings with ease.

Necessary tools

  • A new set of strings
  • An Allen key (often supplied with the guitar)
  • A pair of cutting pliers
  • A rope winder (optional)
  • A tuner
  • A wedge or block of wood (to stabilize the deck)

Step 1: Prepare the guitar

  1. Stabilize the bridge: Use a shim or small block of wood to hold the bridge in a neutral position. This will prevent it from rocking when you loosen or remove the strings.
    • Trick : If you don't have a shim, a battery or small rigid object will do.
  2. Loosen the strings: Using a winder or by hand, lower the tension on each string by turning the tuners counterclockwise until they are completely loose.
  3. Loosen the nut blocks: Use an Allen key to slightly loosen the blocks at the nut locking to release the strings.

Step 2: Remove the strings

  1. Loosen the bridges: Insert the Allen key into the saddle screws (at the bridge) to release the strings stuck in the string locks. Then remove the strings one by one.
  2. Clean the Floyd Rose: Take advantage of the absence of strings to clean the bridge with a soft cloth. Remove any accumulation of dust or oxidation.

Step 3: Install the new strings

  1. Cut the ends of the ropes: Floyd Rose saddles do not need the ball end at the end of the strings. Cut this part off using wire cutters.
  2. Insert the strings into the saddles: Place the cut string into the bridge, then tighten the locking screw with the Allen key. Make sure the string is secure and does not slip.
  3. Pass the strings through the machine heads: Thread the other end of the strings through the machine head holes. Wrap them around the machine heads while keeping a slight tension.

Step 4: Tune the guitar

  1. Adjust the strings one by one: Tighten each string by tuning gradually. Don't try to reach the final tuning directly: do it in several steps.
  2. Balance the bridge: Once all the strings are installed, gently remove the shim. If the bridge is too high or too low, adjust the springs on the back of the guitar to bring it back into a position parallel to the body.

Step 5: Complete the installation

  1. Lock the head nut: When the guitar is correctly tuned, tighten the nut blocks with the Allen key.
  2. Perform a precision tuning: Use the Floyd Rose's fine tuners to fine-tune the tuning.

Tips to avoid problems

  • One string at a time: If this is your first time, change one string at a time to avoid upsetting the balance of the bridge.
  • Have a spare set of springs: If you change string type or gauge, it may be necessary to readjust or replace the Floyd Rose springs.
  • Patience : Changing the strings on a Floyd Rose can be time consuming, especially if you are a beginner. Take your time and follow the steps.

With these detailed instructions, you are ready to change the strings on your Floyd Rose with confidence. A well-maintained guitar will allow you to fully enjoy your instrument and its incredible capabilities. Good luck!

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