Acoustic Guitar: Using Keith Style D-Tuners

Date: Mon, 01 Mar 2004 03:00:18 -0800
Subject: D-tuner question

I know your answers on the Keith D-tuners have been on banjos.
However, I was interested in putting them on a guitar ala Adrian leg.
Which set should go on which strings if I were to replace all 6 string?
Would I have to alter the peg holes on a guitar? (are peg hole diameters the same between guitar and banjo?)
Thanks in advance.
Peter

Greetings Peter,

It really depends on the guitar...some routing may be required...only, I personally wouldn't attempt this on a vintage instrument...

In light of what Adrian has done...his keys were installed on an ovation...at 3 plus 3...and, yes, he really does make good use of them on his "Guitar for Mortals"...

Is it a 3 plus 3 or all in-line keys such as on a tele...this would predetermine what size spools to purchase...if it's an acoustic guitar, 3 plus 3, you wouldn't have a problem with the spool size...some acoustics still would require some routing. 3 plus 3 means that the keys are on opposite sides of the peghead...and since the keys would be set apart, you wouldn't have any problem with installation.

Essentially, the D-Tuners themselves, once installed, will function the same as they do on banjo...you'll set the stop keys at the same angles so that they are easily accessed...and, personally, I prefer tuning with the keys facing behind the peghead than off to the side as is normally installed on guitars...they're can be quickly accessed in the middle of a song, if you find yourself going out of tune. Hence, they serve even more functionality beyond being able to use them as D-Tuners as part of the song...

Mickey