How to change strings on a Gibson-type guitar (3+3 headstock)

TC-TUNE

Guitars known as "Gibson-type," such as the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335, are characterized by their headstock shape with a 3+3 tuning peg arrangement. While the structure may seem simple at first glance, improper string winding or angles can affect tuning stability. Therefore, this time, we will introduce the basic string changing method for Gibson-type guitars.

Gibson-type basic structure

In many Gibson models,

  • Stop tailpiece
  • Tune-o-matic bridge

This combinationRecruitIt is being done.

A typical example of this type of bridge is the Gibson Tune-o-Matic Bridge.
The strings are threaded through the tailpiece, over the bridge saddle, and stretched towards the headstock.

Things to prepare

  • New strings
  • Nippers
  • cross
  • tuner
  • String winder (useful to have)

1. Remove the old strings.

First, remove the old strings.
To avoid sudden changes in tension on the neck, it is generally recommended to loosen the strings before removing them.
Remove the strings from the tailpiece side, and then remove all the strings.

2. Cleaning

Without strings,This is the perfect time to clean the fretboard, frets, body, and bridge area.is.
Use a cloth to remove dust and dirt.

TCGAKKII recommend using Advance Guitars' dedicated cleaning cloth.
These are tools that we actually use ourselves, so you can use them with confidence.
Click here for instructions on how to use the cross.
Here's how to use the polish.

Also, if the fretboard is dry,We also recommend moisturizing with a dedicated oil.
The oil I'm using is this one.

3. Thread a new string through the string.

Thread the string through from the tailpiece side, past the nut, and up to the tuning peg.
At this point, I haven't started winding yet.First, create some extra length to leave for rolling.

How to leave excess string (how to create winding allowance)

4. How to leave excess string (how to create winding allowance)

Instead of winding the string directly, leave a suitable length of excess before winding to create a consistent number of turns.

*This length is justguidelineis.
The appropriate amount of winding may vary slightly depending on the type of strings and tuning pegs used.
*Some pegsShort shaft typeSome types may not be able to be wound in large quantities.
In that case, it's okay if the number of turns is reduced.

6th string and 5th string (equivalent to 1.5 tuning pegs)

After threading the string through the hole next to the tuning peg, pull the string towards the tip of the headstock.

Pull the string out to the position of the adjacent peg, then return it to its original position.
This will leave you with enough material for about 1.5 pegs.
The 5th string is strung in the same way.

4th string and 3rd string (2 tuning pegs)

4 strings (2 tuning pegs)
After threading the string through the hole next to the tuning peg, pull the string towards the tip of the headstock.

Then, return the tuning peg to the position of the 6th string.
This method allows you to secure a length equivalent to approximately two pegs.

3rd string (2 tuning pegs)

After threading the string through the hole next to the tuning peg, pull the string towards the tip of the headstock.

Then, return the tuning peg to the position of the first string.
This method allows you to secure a length equivalent to approximately two pegs.

String 2 and String 1 (3 tuning pegs)

Plain strings are wound a little more times,
Approximately 3 pegs left overWe will make it.

2 strings
Pull the strings out to the tip of the headstock, ensuring they are long enough to fit two tuning pegs.
Without changing the position of your left hand, return to the 2nd string tuning peg.

Switch your left hand's grip to the 3rd string tuning peg, then return it to the 2nd string tuning peg position.

This method Approximately 3 pegs Ensure the correct length.

1st string

After threading the string through the tuning peg, pull the string all the way to the tip of the headstock and then return it to the position of the 1st string tuning peg.
This distance Approximately 3 pegs This will be the remainder.

5. Wind the pegs.

Thread the string through the tuning peg, leave some length of excess, and then turn the peg to wind the string.
Here are some key points to remember when wrapping:

  • It spirals downwards.
  • Make sure the rolls don't overlap.
  • Position it so that it is pulled straight towards the nut.

You can wind the string correctly by holding it with the right amount of pressure, as shown in the picture.

Gently pull the string while turning the tuning peg to wind it up.

After rotating it about 90 degrees, bend the string straight up.

When winding, wind the material downwards, making sure that the windings do not overlap.

Once you've finished winding, cut off any excess string.
The ends of the strings can easily become sharp, so please be careful not to injure yourself.

The number of turns is just right.

Few turns

Many turns

6. Completion

About "Gibson Wrapping"

The so-called "Gibson winding" method is sometimes introduced as a way to change guitar strings.
This method involves wrapping the string between two layers of material, effectively locking it in place.
It is one of the commonly known wrapping methods, but at our shop, this method is...RecruitI haven't done that.
Inconsistencies in string tension and winding can affect tuning stability, and strings can be difficult to untie, sometimes leading to finger injuries from trying to force them off. Therefore, at our shop, we perform string changes using a simple method of winding the strings in a neat, aligned manner.

summary

When changing strings on a Gibson-type guitar, keeping the following points in mind will help ensure a stable setup.

  • Ensure the correct number of turns.
  • Align the windings downwards.
  • The string should be wound in the direction that faces inward towards the post.

Gibson-style guitars, due to their construction, are instruments where the angle of the strings and their relationship with the nut easily affect tuning.
Even simply adjusting the way you wind your strings when changing them can improve tuning stability and the feel of playing.

Author of this article:Mogi (Advance Guitars staff | Currently: TC-TUNE staff)

Unable to contain my interest and love for musical instruments, I jumped into the musical instrument industry, which was also something I had always admired.TCGAKKIA promising new employee who joined the company.
In his private life, he plays electric guitar. He studied acoustic guitar at Advance Guitars and is currently training in guitar repair at TC-TUNE, their repair department.

Qualifications and experience: Two years of experience as a musical instrument appraiser.

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