Synchronized Tremolo Adjustment Guide! Tips for Floating Settings | Exciting Guitar Tweaks
What Is a Floating Setup, Anyway?
No matter how much I tune it, it keeps going out of tune...
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I want to use the tremolo arm but can’t...
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What exactly is a floating tremolo??? etc.
The Stratocaster is the most classic model, but if it isn’t properly adjusted, the tremolo won’t work as intended.
Check out this iconic Stratocaster here!!
There are various types of bridges, but in this tutorial, we’ll be adjusting types A and B.
Guitars equipped with a synchronized tremolo bridge >>
Guitars equipped with a 2-stud tremolo bridge >>
Guitars equipped with a Wilkinson bridge >>
Guitars equipped with a locking tremolo bridge >>
What is "floating" in the first place?
"Floating" means it's floating!! In other words, when the bridge is suspended above the body, it's called "floating."
To achieve a floating state, the tension of the strings is balanced by springs on the back of the body.
This allows for "arm up" (raising the pitch).
Click here for models that allow for tremolo arm use thanks to the floating design
The Key to Floating Adjustment: "Springs"
When adjusting for floating, the most crucial component is the spring on the back of the body♪ You use this spring to balance the string tension.
There are generally three springs.
Click here to see the Fender Stratocaster that pioneered the three-spring design.
Let’s Get Started! Specific Steps for Floating Adjustment
Step 1: Set the string height and temporarily secure the bridge to the body
The state where the bridge does not lift off the body when the guitar is tuned is called the “flat-mounted” state. Tighten the two screws on the back of the body so that the bridge stays flush against the body even after tuning. This state serves as your starting point.
Step 2: Tune the guitar and lift the bridge slightly
Loosen the screws on the back of the body by about one full turn. This loosens the springs, causing the tuning to drop slightly. (If the tuning doesn’t drop, loosen the screws further.) When you retune, the bridge will gradually lift off the body.
Using a high-precision tuner ensures accurate tuning!!
Step 3: Stabilize the bridge with a gap of about 3mm
Repeat the cycle of "loosen the screw > tune > loosen the screw > tune" until the bridge is raised by about 3mm. Once the tuning stabilizes, the floating adjustment is complete.
I hope you’ve now mastered floating adjustment!!
If you’re looking to level up and master the locking bridge, click here.
Custom Settings! Variations on Spring Placement
・3 springs, arranged in a "川" shape
This is the foundation of everything. Simple is best!!
・Diagonal Mount on One Side
By taking into account the difference in tension between the 6th and 1st strings, attaching the springs diagonally only on the 6th-string side increases spring tension and helps stabilize tuning during whammy bar use!!
・2 springs, V-shape
For those who use thin-gauge strings. For you, who excels at technical playing with a soft touch!!
・Standard 5-string configuration
By mounting five springs, the tension on each individual spring is reduced. The springs vibrate well in response to string vibration, producing the most brilliant sound.
・The " Manly" 5-Spring Setup
A "manly" setup where the five springs are tightened to the absolute limit, ensuring absolutely no floating. Tight as a drum is best!!
Of course, we also offer instrument health checks and setups at our shop!!
TCGAKKI Stratocaster Inventory List
Click here for guitars equipped with a synchronized tremolo bridge >>
Click here for guitars with a 2-stud tremolo bridge >>
Click here for guitars with Wilkinson tremolo bridges >>
Click here for guitars with a locking tremolo bridge >>
View models with floating bridge options
Fender Stratocaster Inventory List
Click here for elite models featuring a locking bridge
Written by: Nihei (TCGAKKI, Electric Guitar Specialist)
He was introduced to the guitar through the manga "BECK" during middle school and, influenced by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Nirvana, discovered his passion for rock music.
Graduated from a vocational school specializing in guitar making. Previously worked as a staff member at TCGAKKI Acoustic Floor and TCGAKKI Premium Guitar Lounge. Currently, as the electric guitar specialist, he actively shares his passion for the instrument through writing columns and appearing on YouTube.
A Few Words:
Qualifications & Experience: 8 years as a musical instrument appraiser
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