How to Use Ibanez Tremolo
- 1). Fit a 2.5-mm hex key to the nearest of the three nut-locks on the top of the fretboard. Turn the hex key counter-clockwise until you hear the strings "twang." The nut-lock puts a stop on the string by applying down-force. This pressure keeps the strings in tune. When fastened, the tuning machines don't affect the tension of the strings. Repeat for the subsequent two nut locks.
- 2). Turn each thumb-screw on the bridge so that they sit at their half-way height. These are for minor tuning adjustments when the nut-lock is down. Although the nut-lock mitigates the movement of the tuning machines and tremolo arm, humidity can make the strings fall out of tune. Setting the thumb-screws half-way gives equal tuning scope in both directions.
- 3). Fit a clip-on tuner or plug in to an electric tuner.
- 4). Tune the guitar in the typical fashion, using the tuning machines. Tighten the tuning machines to correct flat notes and loosen them to correct sharp notes.
- 5). Fasten the nut-locks at the top. This secures the strings and prevents them from going out of tune.
- 6
Satriani and Vai, two notable Ibanez users, perform together.Kevin Winter/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Set the height of the bridge by adjusting the nuts on either side of the tremolo system. Use the 2.5-mm hex key. Turn clockwise to raise the bridge and turn counter-clockwise to lower it. Bridge height, or "action," is a matter of preference, but the lower the strings, the less pressure you need to apply to fret a note. This makes it easier to play faster. If you want to play fast, set the bridge as low as possible before the strings begin to buzz. When they buzz, raise the bridge slightly. - 7). Fit the tremolo arm. Depending on what model you have, it will either screw in or clip in. If the arm doesn't have a thread, push it into the hole on the treble string side of the bridge until you hear a click. If it has a thread, put the arm into the hole and wind it in tight.
- 8). Play a string and push the arm down to lower the note. Pull it up to raise the pitch of a note. The further away from the resting position you move the arm, the more the pitch of the string changes. Experiment with tremolo arm techniques, such as tapping the end to make a bouncing sound and dipping the arm before playing a note, to create an ascending sound.
