The Floyd Rose tremolo system is renowned for its ability to perform extreme pitch bending, dive bombs, and expressive vibrato effects. However, some guitarists may find that they prefer the simplicity and tuning stability of a fixed bridge. Hardtailing a Floyd Rose tremolo is the process of converting it into a fixed bridge, effectively locking the tremolo system. This modification allows guitarists to enjoy the benefits of a fixed bridge while preserving the guitar’s original body and neck. In this article, we will guide you through the process of hardtailing a Floyd Rose and discuss its impact on your guitar’s performance.
Important Note: Hardtailing a Floyd Rose is a permanent modification that eliminates the tremolo’s functionality. Before proceeding, ensure that you are comfortable with the process and its implications. If you have any doubts, consult a professional guitar technician.
Tools Required:
- Tremolo arm (whammy bar)
- Small block of wood, foam, or stack of picks
Step-by-Step Guide to Hardtailing a Floyd Rose:
Step 1: Detune the Guitar Begin by detuning your guitar to release tension from the strings and the Floyd Rose springs. This step is crucial to avoid any damage during the hardtailing process.
Step 2: Block the Tremolo System To hardtail the Floyd Rose tremolo, we will create a physical stop to prevent the bridge from moving. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: Wedge Method:
- Access the tremolo cavity on the back of your guitar by removing the backplate.
- Insert a small block of wood, foam, or a stack of picks between the tremolo block (the metal block inside the cavity) and the inside wall of the cavity.
- The wedge should be placed in such a way that it prevents the tremolo block from moving in any direction, effectively locking the bridge.
Method 2: Full Block Method:
- Similar to the wedge method, access the tremolo cavity by removing the backplate.
- Place a wood block, foam, or custom-designed metal plate (known as a “full block”) between the tremolo block and the cavity floor.
- Adjust the height of the block to achieve the desired bridge height and ensure that the bridge is level with the guitar body.
Step 3: Re-tune and Check After hardtailing the Floyd Rose, re-tune your guitar and check the intonation. You may need to make some adjustments to achieve optimal playability and performance.
Impact on Guitar Performance:
1. Enhanced Tuning Stability: Hardtailing the Floyd Rose enhances tuning stability by converting it into a fixed bridge, preventing any bridge movement during aggressive playing.
2. Simplified Setup and Maintenance: With the tremolo hardtailed, restringing and adjusting the action and intonation become easier and more straightforward.
3. Loss of Tremolo Functionality: Hardtailing the Floyd Rose eliminates its ability to perform pitch bending, dive bombs, and vibrato effects. The guitar will play like a traditional fixed-bridge instrument.
Conclusion:
Hardtailing a Floyd Rose is a suitable modification for guitarists who desire the simplicity and tuning stability of a fixed bridge while preserving their guitar’s original body and neck. This process permanently eliminates the tremolo’s functionality, so it’s essential to be certain about your decision before proceeding. As with any permanent guitar modification, consulting a professional guitar technician is recommended to ensure the best possible results and to maintain the integrity of your instrument. If hardtailing aligns with your playing style and preferences, you can enjoy the benefits of a fixed bridge setup while still owning a guitar that retains its original hardware and character.
