Question What adjustments are needed for drop tunings on JP15?

[MattZone]

Hey there,

I've had a 6 string JP15 for a year or two, but I've been wanting to use drop tunings. I don't know much at all about setting up a guitar, etc, and I want to figure out all the considerations before I start potentially tweaking things.

From what I understand, I'll have to block the trem first of all. I don't mind it being dive only.

From there, if I was to tune to drop D for example, what other adjustments would have to be made to make sure things work as expected? For example, I'm not sure how to deal with the 6th string being looser. Is that a matter of getting a higher string gauge, or are other adjustments needed?

Just not sure where to start. Thanks!

 

[damo_512]

There's a great setup guide on the Music Man FAQ page under "How do I set up my John Petrucci guitar?".

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Generally something like going to drop D from standard is just a case of retuning. Although if the guitar is going to stay in that tuning it's best to set it up for that. Lower tunings like drop C you might want to change the string gauge to keep a similar string tension.

 

[Vadauco]

I don't know much at all about setting up a guitar, etc, and I want to figure out all the considerations before I start potentially tweaking things.

First of all: learn how to propertly setup your guitar in standard tuning. I won't post any link because there are literally hundreds of videos on YouTube on this subject.

if I was to tune to drop D for example, what other adjustments would have to be made to make sure things work as expected?

You first must decide whether you want to stick to a specific tuning, or if you want to change tunings often.

The most basic concept of a floating tremolo is that string tension must balance the springs tension (in the back of the guitar), so that the bridge is flat. If you loosen a string, the overall string tension will reduce, therefore you'll have to adjust the screws of the springs in the back of the guitar, so the bridge is flat again.

So, if you want to change tunings often, it's better to block the bridge, so you won't have to adjust the springs all the time (you'll have a fixed-bridge guitar).

As for gauges, take a look at this string tension calculator. If you go too low, the strings will feel too loose, and you may want thicker strings. But "when to change" is very personal.

• String Tension Calculator

Again, there are so many videos on this subject... just start watching, and things will become clearer.

 

[PBGas]

I run the Floyd Rose trem stops on all three of my JP15s. I like this particular unit because it has a plastic tip on it and doesn't clunk like the metal screw tip would when returning the bar to pitch. I added in a set screw so it stays completely stable and never moves or wiggles out of place. You can also add a rubber pad to the block but that can degrade after time with the pull of the springs on it.

I do use drop tuning regularly and sometimes some alternate tunings and everything is very stable at all times. Make sure that the bar is perfectly level. I've had no issues with tuning when using the bar and all works fantastic on all three of my guitars. I run 9-46 on my 2 JP15 6's and 9-56 on my JP15 7-string.