Blocked floating bridge

Professor Jones · #1 02-20-2006, 11:38 AM

I just blocked the bridge on my rg570 ex (a lo-pro edge) so now I'm not using the locking nut anymore (it's more convenient that way IMO) and I was wondering if it's a good idea to also remove the string retaining bar since it's not found on fixed bridge guitars ?

NeglectedField · #2 02-21-2006, 10:31 AM

I'd say keep it. I think it's meant to retain the tension.

thebigugly · #3 02-22-2006, 12:41 PM

The string retainer is designed to keep the strings at the proper angle across the locking nut. If you didn't have the retainer then when you tightened the nut it would pull the strings hella sharp. But with the retainer it should stay relatively in tune as you lock it down. As for whether to keep it or not? Well your choice but it really isn't gonna change the way the guitar sounds or plays one way or the other. So i say just for grins might as well keep it.

GTR-MAN · #4 02-23-2006, 06:15 AM

Keep the string retainer bar. It keeps the string at a proper angle on the nut. You'll have tuning issues if you take it off. why take it off anyway?

dex · #5 02-23-2006, 10:26 AM

The retainer is only usefull if the headstock is not tilted so I've always wondered why Jems/RGs have it.
It's a must on JSs and Strats but totally moot on Jems/RGs.
In fact I'd be more worried about the friction you'd get on the locking nut when bending strings as the contact area is bigger and it was never designed to facilitate string slip so hard playing will push your guitar out of tune.
I've blocked the trem on my main guitar but still lock the nut as well.

Just take the retaining bar off - it won't have any effect on an RG

ilia

P.S. I had a look at some of my guitars last night and it looks like the slope on the locking nut on Jems is really steep and even with the tilted headstock the strings are not lying flat on the locking nut if the retainer bar is removed.
That would mean that without the retainer bar locking the nut will push the strings quite a bit sharp so having it there is a good idea but if you are not going to use the pressure pads at all then the retainer bar can be removed.