It's my fav bridge. The Gotoh posts are actually locking too! Over time and sometimes right out of the box even the OFR posts have some play in them. The 1996t is the best kept secret for floating bridge players
every set of floyd posts ive ever had produced play. even the multiple sets of originals ive had had at least some play. love the gotoh and all its extra features
@@comment.highlighted Just keep in mind, the Gotoh posts are slightly bigger and aren't usually a drop in replacement without drilling out the post holes a little. (EDIT: you can still use the FR posts in most situations though. You don't HAVE to use the better Gotoh ones)
I've been looking into the differences between the two for a good while now. It's good to see one of my favorite UA-camr's put it into terms I can understand.
I’ve got a Gotoh on my Jackson DKR MIJ. It’s easily comparable to an OFR from an engineering/craftsmanship perspective, in my opinion anyway. It stays in tune and I’ve had zero issues. Intonation is on point too. I play in Eb and I barely had to make any adjustments from stock. One thing I’ve noticed is that I actually prefer the Gotoh for palm muting etc. It doesn’t make any difference in tone, it just seems to be slightly more comfortable on my right hand. Overall, I actually prefer the Gotoh, and for the price, it’s sort of insane how cheap it is given the quality.
On the downside, the "tail" is taller than the Floyd. Where the Gotoh really wins out is the grub screw arm tensioner and the smooth beveled saddle edges. The only bridge I prefer in terms of saddle design is the Ibanez Edge Pro.* If Gotoh were to bring out a low profile version of the GE1996T, I'd be first in line. *The one that tried to dodge Floyd Rose patents and reportedly got Ibanez sued.
In my opinion, the studs/posts contribute to tuning stability way more than just the tremolo bridge. If your guitar has coarse threaded posts and you can wiggle them when you remove the bridge, that directly translates to tuning issues. The studs/posts that come with higher end tremolos like OFR and Gotoh have fine threaded posts that are very solid. Worth looking into replacing those when you do the tremolo upgrade. Having said that, I much prefer the Gotoh over OFR in nearly every aspect. Outstanding units.
I replaced the Floyd rose 1000 on my LTD Buz 7 with a gotoh 1996t and added the locking studs too. It’s pretty much impossible to knock that guitar out of tune. The gotoh trem just feels way better overall, the arm feels so much better with zero play, it’s more comfortable under my palm. It takes everything good about the original Floyd and refines it and fixes the flaws of the original Floyd. For anyone doubting the quality of the gotoh unit, gotoh has been manufacturing the Edge and Lo Pro Edge for Ibanez for decades and those are considered some if the best locking trems ever made.
I modified my JS32 Dinky with a 1996t bridge and I'm happy with the result. The vibrato bar is much sturdier and the tuning stability is improved compared to the Jackson licensed FR that comes stock.
@@tfbytslols8426 Tuning stability and sustain are both noticeably better. Also the vibrato arm is sturdier. I did have to re-rout the posts to make it work and I lost some room to pull up on the bar. I can still bend notes up about 3 half steps.
I had a 1996t back in the late 2000s. I do not know how good they continue to be, but it was a winner back then. Really stable and a nice feel, plus it had a quality engineering look to it. It was for an Allparts neck and body super strat build. That was when I found out that chucking a bunch of good parts together does not always add up to a good guitar. They still need top notch fret work, assembly and set up to be really great. I was quite impressed with an Ibanez edge trem on a RG550 Genesis I had for a week or so. Best thing about the guitar. Pity it was let down by a bunch of other stuff that felt cheap and was faulty etc. The reason I sold though was I could not get on with the super skinny and flat neck profile - I prefer the San Dimas compound radius or some of the Dinky stuff, or a good Explorer.
Gotoh stuff is mad. I have an Ibanez GRX70QA that I bought just over 5 years ago for $370 brand new. The stock tuners and bridge were ok but they weren't the best. I upgraded to GOTOH locking tuners and bridge and the change in tuning stability and sustain is absolutely awesome. I tune my guitar by ear and tune it a specific way and it doesn't really go out of tune. Just recently I went from Sydney to Brisbane for 3 weeks and took my Ibanez and MkIV with me and wasn't able to play until the second last day so the guitar just sat in the case the whole time. When I finally did play it the guitar was almost perfectly in tune. A slight adjustment on the B ang G string and that was it. I very rarely have to tune it any other time. Just plug in and go. It's my number one guitar and total cost for mods and a setup plus the purchase price of the guitar is less than $1000. Gotoh is Aok in my book 👍
I don't like Gotoh. EVERY TIME I tried them I snapped the bar right out! I love the locking system of the Floyd's bar, its super reliable. I love Floyds. Now that being said, the actual best bridge I ever had was an Ibanez Edge Zero II. Man that thing was UNREAL! Extremely consistent! The bar had a little plastic ring under the locking screw that made it have ZERO wabbling no matter what! I regret selling that guitar, it was an absolute work horse of massive sound! It was an Ibanez RG 350MZ, black with a maple scale and a Seymour Duncan SH6. KILLER sound! I was an idiot and sold it. I'll get another one eventually!
And Ibanez puts Edge Zero II on relatively affordable guitars. Other manufacturers put terrible Floyd Rose Special in guitars priced up to 1000$. So respect to Ibanez for this. By the way, Edge Pro tremolo was designed and produced by Gotoh for Ibanez, so it's possible that Edge Zero also was designed by Gotoh.
I will say this. I did have a Floyd Special laying around and i put it in a used Jem jr I got back in 2016 the original trem was messed up anyway like I said it was used and it was beat up a bit but I got it for under 200 USD. i kept that Floyd special in it till just recently I replaced with a Gotoh. But I never had any real issues with it. It stayed in tune only issue I had was it took awhile to loosen up the fine tuners, I even used Liquid wrench or WD-40 can't remember and it still took time. But now they're fine. I'll probably put it on my friends Chinese copy guitar that he wants me to upgrade for him. However, that being said Gotohs to me are the best after market trems on the market. And for about the same price as a Floyd Special. Again only reason I used a special on my jem jr was cause I had it just laying in around. And I needed something to put in it. But we gotta quit doing videos on how great Gotoh Trems are, they more the secret gets out the higher the price will become.
Guitars, Gotoh and Greencheeks, subbed... Your little buds are so well behaved, mine used to climb all over my guitars and try to eat the strings when I played, either that or started angry bobbing at my hand as it moved up and down...
Dude yes! I needed this video. I am looking to order the Gotoh for my EVH wolfgang standard. The FR special is trash, and shame on any companies using it.
Yeah you can get a 1996T for 120 dollars on Philadelphia Luthier tools and supply they come in Chrome, Gold, Black, and Cosmo black (black nickel, black chrome matches Ibanez cosmo black hardware) . The Gotoh doesn’t come with the locking nut but if you’re upgrading you can use your original nut or buy a Gotoh nut ( they are kinda expensive in my opinion) or source a nut from somewhere else.
I have been looking at cheaper V's with the crappy Floyd Rose with the intention of upgrading to a gohtoh. It is like this channel is geared towards my desires haha. I love your older lesson videos.
I have the 1996T Gotoh on 2 of my guitars and love it..I paid $120 with shipping here in the USA. 2 for the price of 1 of the Floyd made in Germany models.
This is why I'm pissed I didn't find this sooner, I almost just ordered an OFR to replace a special that (as usual) stripped a saddle after probably the 20th string change
I just installed the new Schaller Lockmeister, an exceptional piece of hardware with radiused saddles and radiused nut! Floyd Rose is now offering radiused saddle upgrades!
Just upgrading the brass block, steel inserts and screws to a special make a huge difference. The Gotoh would absolutely be a better option but for 40 bucks for all of that it’s a budget option for a budget guitar. Lubricating where the strings sit and under the locking nut with some graphite lube will help tuning stability too.
@@JD-vj4go yes technically I put a tiny bit under the string where it sits on the nut not under the clamping block. I’ve had great results doing that with tuning stability but i only but a tiny bit there maybe once a year.
What a terrific video, perfect timing as I was about to replace a FR special on my Jackson X soloist. This Gotoh bridge is next level at a more realistic price. Thank you! 😎👍
Down the road usually the screw in arm does get sloppy. The trem socket is very replaceable tho. On my 90,s Charvel/Jackson, I replaced the screw in socket with a standard socket and Floyd arm. Not hard to switch. Lambchopper I love your channel. You are one of the best around at thrashing out the stuff from the Tampa Bay bands. Thanks!! Keith.
This video exactly demonstrates why I love the gotoh...I am happy with floyd 1000 and German made series, but I will spend $250+ USD from FU Tone to do all the titanium/brass upgrades that I like for more mass and sustain. The gotoh nails it right out of the box!
I never tried the Gotoh until I got a MIJ Strat that had one. MUCH better than any of my Floyds! The saddles are a bit rounded that make it more comfortable on your right hand, and the fine tuners are angled back in a way that they're completely out of your way...no accidentally hitting them. They're also much smoother. Now I'm in the process of replacing all my Floyded guitars with the Gotoh. ;-)
I actually have one of these in the box. I bought a vintage fender HM strat thinking I’d upgrade the old Floyd but the setup is so perfect on the guitar and it just works so nice I don’t want to mess with it
My 'go to' guitar in the studio for the last 30+ years is my Sadowsky NYC S Style, which cam fitted with the Gotoh 1088 bridge - impeccable piece of work. They stopped making so Roger switched to the Gotoh 510, altho he mentioned that here is still a version of the 1088 available, but it is inferior to the one he used to use. I'm upgrading a couple of guitars right now and will be going for all Gotoh hardware - that's after long discussions with my guitar tech and exploring many options out there. I should mention I don't use the whammy bar quite the way you just demonstrated! 😅Good luck with the upgrade!
Awesome vid mate, got a Jackson jdr94 and the FR has always been a problem been wanting to swap it out for something different for years, this video was exactly what I was looking for, cheers!!
Hi there, great video. Having made a few electric guitars, the Gotoh unit is brilliant. Easy to fit from scratch and all the parts needed in the kit, no extras needed. For a cheaper version, the Wilkinson Unit is good, but not as well finished, but I'm sure made in the same factory as the Gotoh item.
I'm installing one on my Schecter Damien 6 Platinum FR atm. Even with the stock studs, it seems like a perfect fit, but I will be installing the Gotoh Stud Locks as soon as possible. So far, I've only installed shortened saddle screws.
I got a Gotoh a few months ago to put on my Charvel. I love it. It’s beautiful because the saddles are the same as an Ibanez Edge. Same company actually.
I'm a big fan of Gotoh. I've moved away from double locking systems. I'm currently putting together a build using a Gotoh Wilkinson VS100. Quality stuff.
My 2019 Jackson Super Strat and it's sounds kick-ass ! The license Floyd Rose works great, it's setup great and does its job great ! If I ever need to replace it with a Gotoh I will do so based on your video !
I had to change the sting lock bolts to shorter ones. I don't love the bar itself, but it's a good unit. smooth. I had to change the block as well to fit my axe
That’s the one issue I’ve ran into with the gotoh trems. They actually use the same string lock screws as the Ibanez original edge trem. They’re super long and don’t fit a lot of Floyd routes. As you said though it’s a simple fix.
You can do that with a Kayler, and all the stings will still be in perfect tune. At least in my experience. Idk why they aren't all the rave over FR. Since 1988, I fell in love with Kayler. Maybe bc they coast more? But it's for a good reason imo.
Awesome, thanks for this video, i have a couple of early 2000’s japanese jackson’s with floyd rose specials and could never justify paying the price for an original, these look really cool and i’m tempted to check them out now.
Just be aware that the Gotoh might not be a drop in replacement. The baseplate is a touch larger than a Floyd and the locking bolts extend further back too. Another choice is the Schaller Lockmeister. Generally more expensive than the GE1996T, but it's essentially the Floyd Original without Floyd's cut and distribution fees on top.
Thanks for the reminder, lol. I actually have a Special in my LTD I've been looking into replacing with a Gotoh, but kinda forgot about it over time. Some nice tips about setting it up too. I keep it blocked, so I don't know a lot about floating it properly. Also, nice blocks with the little handle. I use a bunch of coins taped together and it does the job, but was thinking something that fills the space more would make it more solid.
I was surprised to find out my favorite bridge was on an 84 Ibanez Artist. They called it the Pro Rocker. It worked great, stayed in tune and easy to adjust. I had good luck with it
The Gotoh 1996 is my absolute favourite trem. Any other FR style that needs replacing will become a Gotoh. They're very well priced, the quality is excellent, kits are very complete, and just the fact they can be ordered with different lengths of (brass) block, means it's the least hassle. And they're available everywhere rather than ordering every single screw from Floyd Rose in the US - which makes it ridiculously expensive.
My just came friday. I ordered gold one with one emg 81 gold locking gotoh tuner gold and I'm gonna make an order in custom shop for guitar with the same V shape like urs but with one pickup. With golden lines. I like the gotoh they are really good made.
The Gotoh is massively underappreciated but I worry that more people buying them will increase the price. I genuinely cannot fault this trem, after heaps of abuse and not being able to play the guitar for a couple weeks being away from home I picked it up, pushed the trem all the way down and up a few times to make sure nothing is sticking and checked the tuning. Didn't have to touch any of the fine tuners, played for an hour on it and checked again still perfect. I need to change the strings at this point and all the fine tuners are still bang in the middle of their adustment because it's so stable. The Gotoh seriously feels like it is straight up just an improved and modernised floyd rose, all the strengths of the original with some nice upgrades.
Oh man thanks for this! I've got 2 or 3 guitars with the bloody zinc saddles and I'm sick of them stripping. This is a bargain for the quality, You sold me!
To supplement -> 1) There are various models that have different radii. Also, a lot of the floyds just shim out to get their radii. Manufacturers can OEM specs of various string widths and radii. 2) String tuning isnt completely dependent on the bridge. Its hard to objectively keep this test scientific; but in general, floyd rose original and gotoh 1996t are extremely comparable in quality and should never ever have any tuning disparity between the two. If anything, the gotoh has locking studs, so it technically should be more stable; though In practice it kinda doesnt work out that way (e.g. normal studs that arent wobbly are just fine; the locking portion is basically irrelevant, but it can matter in very very very minor niche circumstances) 3) that bushing on the gotoh is actually adjustable; some people like floppy trem arms, some people like tight ones. The OFR/schaller ones have that screw down ferrule thats ... less easy to dial in how you want. Its either tight or loose; you cant really have it in the middle there lol. Thats a big reason I prefer gotohs myself. Spec wise, a lot of people dont really understand what makes a floyd rose 1000 cheaper, or why an OFR/schaller is expensive. A lot of it is obviously WHERE its manufactured. Floyd rose 1000's are made in korea a lot cheaper than the american and german counterparts. Gotohs are made in japan and have a controlled cost comparatively. But spec wise, gotohs and OFR's have a fully hardened steel plate; the whole body is just hardened steel with steel saddles. On stuff like floyd rose 1000's, floyd specials, more of your cheaper imports you will have edge hardened plates (This is not really a *huge* issue ,but it is just less precise and more fast for manufacturing purposes and costs), and a lot of the saddles will be just pot metal on the real cheapo ones. 1000s are better overall; steel saddles, proper hardware, just made in korea more or less. At the end of the day, that "cheap gotoh" is used on EXTREMELY high end guitars from Suhr and Ernie Ball. Its almost functionally identical, usually just stamping and radius changes; though some have different string spacing (ebmm evh for example is more narrow than any you can buy off the shelf). If its good enough for eddie van halen, john petrucci, guthrie govan, steve lukather, steve morse, etc etc etc... its good enough for you (colloquially speaking here haha). Trems identical to OFR in quality, performance, and materials -> - TRS-101 (this one can be a REAL steal). NOT to be confused with ANY of the other TRS variants; especially ibanez; though ibanez does use 101's as well. - Ping OFR ; can be found real cheap sometimes - Schaller Germany has zinc plate but fully hardened pivots; much heavier than OFR's but equal in performance. .. but just get a 1996T - Obviously the OFR in general - Ibanez edge / lo pro are superior to OFR's in every way - Jackson JT580 - Takeuchi bridges (trs pro variants; they share model numbers with the cheaper ones, so make sure the block says "takeuchi" on it) These are also incredibly cheap and equal to OFR's. Specifically stay away from the "LO-TRS". This is a garbage trem. Pragmatically speaking, theres no real reason to change an ofr for a gotoh or vice versa. That list I gave is another bunch that shouldnt really be swapped unless specifically damaged somehow; you wont get a "better guitar" out of it. Though, your money and life so do what you will lol.
Nice video! I've got two Gotoh trems and a few guitars with Ibanez Edge variations. I got an ESP E-II and am already discontent with the Floyd on that in comparison to the ergonomics of the Gotoh or Edge bridges.
I finally tried one on my MJ Dinky after only using Floyd Rose in the past. It's definitely a more comfortable bridge. The saddles have a slope that make them slightly more comfortable for palm muting. It almost feels more like and Ibanez Edge to me. But definitely just as good, if not better than OFR. (Also, took me a year before I realized the trem arm was threaded so it could be screwed in to lower the profile.)
@ I’ve taken all the measurements and the Gotoh is about 1/4-1/2 mm smaller in width and length. Should drop right in. Will update when it gets here if it fit or not.
Alright thanks! Just bought a js32 warrior and was planning on changing the bridge once it arrives. Just wanna make sure i can get a bridge that’ll drop right in with no issues
Thanks for the review! Been wanting one of these for a little while now. Just have to decide which guitar to put it in. Id prefer to just buy a new one. Nicer guitar. Like a jackson x series at least. I really want a warrior.
Whyyyy, whyyyy I didn't see this video two weeks earlier!!? I swapped the Lo-trs II trem on my 2002 Ibanez RGT42 with 1996t Gotoh, but I did it the hard way - with half an hour tunning. This trick with the wooden block is very very neat!
Replaced Floyd Specials with 1996t systems in a couple of my neck thru LTDs(bridge, posts(required re-drilling), nut & tree, Gotoh tuners as well). Instant chimier tone and sustain to rival LPs(don't hate, its damned close). Super well thought out design and build quality, great stability, positive feel. Found an ebay seller who sells brass big blocks for Gotoh- installed on one of the two, but didn't notice huge difference as 1996t comes with brass. The extra long clamp screws don't work with most routes but can be swapped for standard-length screws. My favorite bridge by far, I still love OFR. Also, I believe the Ibanez Edge Pro was made by Gotoh and is a slightly modified version of the '96t. FWIW.
The original Ibanez Edge and Lo-pro Edge were manufactured by Gotoh. The Edge Pro was a redesign of the Lo-Pro Edge. It was most likely Gotoh made, but I don't have any confirmation. There isn't even any "Made in Japan" markings anywhere on the unit. Ibanez also abandoned the locking stud posts of the previous Edge models, which Gotoh held the patent for. Some of thd earlier Ibanez Edge models had the Gotoh style G on the spring block, making it a dead giveaway.
You got to check out a Vega trem! It’s a replacement for a 6 screw vintage trem but it floats. Then you have to use a guitar nut buster to lock the strings past the nut. Two expensive pieces of gear but I think it’s the most radical trem that holds the best tuning, only if used with a guitar nut buster locking device. I wouldn’t mind trying a gotoh trem on something. The thing is don’t like about Floyd rose style trems is you need to use shims to adjust action on individuals strings.
Great topic to cover man I've had guitars with floyd rose yrem systems on em and they were OK I steer clear of the really cheap units due to they're just a headache that doesn't last, I've wondered what the Gotoh units are like and now I know! Cheers
The Gotoh is the best floyd. Gotoh makes the Ibanez Edge and took all the innovations from that, plus added a better arm adjustment system, and a brass block. Made in Japan, so quality is top notch, and the price is just insane. They even make a 7 string version now too!
Thanks heaps for this video mate. I been looking at replacing a battered Edge 3 but as you said, a FR O is way overpriced here in Oz. The gotoh looks beautiful and judging from your vid, performs just as well. Im sold brother. Cheers from the sunny coast! 🍻
Lambchopper coming with the info i need. I just got an OFR. I've been avoiding 1,000s but I think I'll get 1,000 now since the 1996 T is not much. Even the seven string isn't and finding an ofr7 string is very hard. Generally cost a lot of money
If I'm in Australia, and I need a guitar tech for a Floyd Rose, I'm gonna come looking. Great stuff! I do not have the same level of skill in terms of setting one up.
I replaced two Ibanez (cheap) bridges with the Gotoh. Sustain increased instantly. I had to make a few changes. I used FR studs to not to have to install the Gotoh studs which are a bit larger and I didn’t w t to drill new holes. I had to shim the bridge to match my radius. Finally, on one guitar I had to switch to FR string lock screws on the bridge as the Gotoh were too long (one is a bit shorter shcaller)). My only complaint with the Gotoh bridge is that the fine tuners are a bit higher than the Ibanez low profile models.
Enjoy your videos keep it up! 👍 Quick question please, can you suggest a pedal or 2 to use with my little Marshall 30w to get a little closer to an Iron Maiden tone? Much appreciated Thanks
Those are beautiful bridges, would love to try one some day. I have an Ibanez with the Edge Lo Pro which is great but a little worn after 25+ years of use. Love the Original Floyd on my ESP as well. I replaced the arm with the FU Tone push in assembly and it’s perfect, I’ve been using it for a few months and it still has zero play.
Its alot better than a lo pro, and i LOVE the lo pro. Its alot more stable, and you can feel its made out of stiffer steel. I prefer the full movement of the bar on a lo pro, but is what it is
@@quix99 Good to know. One of my biggest issues with the Lo Pro is the arm holder design. It would always come loose and eventually I had to put loctite on the nut on the bottom side of the bridge. It's great now but those plastic bushings still wear out periodically and need to be replaced. The grub screw design is way superior. If I ever replace that bridge I'll likely get the Gotoh 7-string version.
Okie dokie, love the video, straight to the point and no dicken about, ( fellow ozzy here ) I’m curious as to any opinions ( other than tone differences between metals ) about the original Floyd vs Gotoh vs Titanium Floyd copy, made in Japan to exact measurements, the titanium Version I was able to buy for a little more than the Gotoh but it came in a full kit, including locking nut, arm, string tree, posts, block, claw and springs, everything titanium except the block and springs. I haven’t fitted it yet but I am interested in genuine opinions as only 2 of my collection are floating bridges so I don’t have a lot of experience.
I got myself some Schaller original saddles for my floyd rose special. Replacing the whole thing is too much for me, but even this change meant no more canals forming because of overtightening the screws and more steady sound when doing squeals.
I had a JS240PSCA and LOVED the (original?) Edge bridge. Most of the other Ibanez variants I've tried have been awful though. The Edge Zero ii in my axion was probably the worst floating trem I've ever used. I put it below a FR special it was so bad.
@@NathanMichalik yep, it needs to be one of the top line models, of which there have been quite a few over the years. Edge, Edge Pro, Edge Zero, etc. The lesser ones vary a lot in quality. It's worth doing the research.
That bar design is worse imo. Those little plastic bushings always wear out over time and they’re ridiculously overpriced to replace. In my Edge Lo Pro 7 the arm holder assembly itself kept coming loose and the whole bar would rattle. I would always have to remove the bridge and tighten the nut on the bottom side. I did that like four times before I finally put loctite on the nut and it hasn’t budged since. Haven’t tried the Gotoh yet, but I have the FU Tone push in arm on my Floyd which seems to be the same design and it’s been rock solid so far.
@@GarryParkerthe bushings last forever if you don’t remove the bar often. It’s removing and reinstalling the arm that wears them out on those edge trems.
I built my last two guitars with Gotoh GE-1996Ts and what I can say about them is that they are awesome, with two caveats. The first being the length of the string locking bolts at the rear of the bridge. These are longer than an OFR, but can be replaced by the same parts from an OFR. This means the Gotoh might not fit correctly in the back end of the tremolo recess, with the bolts colliding at the back. I designed my guitars to allow a few more mm to allow for this unnecessary oddity. I also noticed that the tremolo is a little "sticky" in the neutral position, re: tuning also. A quick pull brings a slightly flat tuning back up, and a press can drop the tuning. I've had this in OFRs also, but hey. The only bridge I prefer over either is the Ibanez Lo-Pro Edge, but that has its own quirks. I suspect that the OFR/1996T tuning issue may be in the knife edge between the posts and the bridge, and may become smoother with time and use. Not sure if lubing might change this. It could also be movement in the claw/screws settling in use. I might swap out the springs at some point and check for differences. Overall though, the Gotoh units are absolutely a parallel choice against an overly-expensive OFR. Some people just want "authentic" and can't see past that towards alternatives that are just as good. Gotoh all the way for me.
I have the same tuning problem with my ibanez edge 2 tremolo. The tuning goes sharp when i pull back on it but pulling it down corrects it. Wonder if it has anything to do with the knife edge
@@oopsydaizi3s824 This is my thought also. The opposing tensions between the strings and the springs is not linear, and near the neutral point the differences become so negligible that any lack of smoothness in the knife edge fulcrum can "catch" and leave the strings/springs in equilibrium, but in a false position. I sometimes donk the bridge with my palm to bring the strings back in tune if a dive catches them flat. It's pretty common.
I tried upgrading the zinc parts on the Special that came with my EVH Wolfgang Standard. What a huge mistake. I put it all back together and now it won't return to pitch or anything. I'll be getting a 1996 sometime down the road. In the states, it's quite a bit cheaper than an FR 1000 and half the price of an Original. Unlike a lot of people, I actually like the stock screw mechanism on the original FR arm, but I'll be fine with the 1996.
Just save yourself the time and money and get a real Floyd tbh. I've had all three, special, gotoh and now the original and nothing beats the real Floyd's honestly.
It's my fav bridge. The Gotoh posts are actually locking too! Over time and sometimes right out of the box even the OFR posts have some play in them. The 1996t is the best kept secret for floating bridge players
Yes! The only problem is they are super big so sometimes theres not enough meat on the guitar to drill out to fit the stud anchors
every set of floyd posts ive ever had produced play. even the multiple sets of originals ive had had at least some play. love the gotoh and all its extra features
Locking posts! That just confirmed my upgrade. Thank you 🙂
@@bc454irocz89Oh, great info. I will check to make sure before I order 🙂
@@comment.highlighted Just keep in mind, the Gotoh posts are slightly bigger and aren't usually a drop in replacement without drilling out the post holes a little. (EDIT: you can still use the FR posts in most situations though. You don't HAVE to use the better Gotoh ones)
Can't really go wrong with anything made by Gotoh. It's gonna be well engineered, and reasonably affordable. The standard.
I've been looking into the differences between the two for a good while now. It's good to see one of my favorite UA-camr's put it into terms I can understand.
The 1996t is an absolute savior in the guitar world, Gotoh really hit a home run with them. I’ve installed and worked on a few and they are great.
I’ve got a Gotoh on my Jackson DKR MIJ. It’s easily comparable to an OFR from an engineering/craftsmanship perspective, in my opinion anyway. It stays in tune and I’ve had zero issues. Intonation is on point too. I play in Eb and I barely had to make any adjustments from stock. One thing I’ve noticed is that I actually prefer the Gotoh for palm muting etc. It doesn’t make any difference in tone, it just seems to be slightly more comfortable on my right hand. Overall, I actually prefer the Gotoh, and for the price, it’s sort of insane how cheap it is given the quality.
is it good for drop d?
@@eben7828yes, the D tuna works better on this too since the screws are longer
I was a Floyd guy for years until I played a gotoh 1996 in a charvel and it honestly blew me away
The Gotoh is classic Japanese, outstanding workmanship, quality, engineering. They thought about everything. I love mine.m and would buy again.
I love that the Gotoh fine tuners are angled away from the bridge so you can palm mute without worrying about accidentally moving the fine tuners.
On the downside, the "tail" is taller than the Floyd.
Where the Gotoh really wins out is the grub screw arm tensioner and the smooth beveled saddle edges.
The only bridge I prefer in terms of saddle design is the Ibanez Edge Pro.*
If Gotoh were to bring out a low profile version of the GE1996T, I'd be first in line.
*The one that tried to dodge Floyd Rose patents and reportedly got Ibanez sued.
Love these videos you’re doing nowadays. Been subbed for yeeears and cool to see you making these no BS videos like a mate telling a mate
Thanks mate, really appreciate it
In my opinion, the studs/posts contribute to tuning stability way more than just the tremolo bridge. If your guitar has coarse threaded posts and you can wiggle them when you remove the bridge, that directly translates to tuning issues. The studs/posts that come with higher end tremolos like OFR and Gotoh have fine threaded posts that are very solid. Worth looking into replacing those when you do the tremolo upgrade. Having said that, I much prefer the Gotoh over OFR in nearly every aspect. Outstanding units.
I replaced the Floyd rose 1000 on my LTD Buz 7 with a gotoh 1996t and added the locking studs too. It’s pretty much impossible to knock that guitar out of tune. The gotoh trem just feels way better overall, the arm feels so much better with zero play, it’s more comfortable under my palm. It takes everything good about the original Floyd and refines it and fixes the flaws of the original Floyd. For anyone doubting the quality of the gotoh unit, gotoh has been manufacturing the Edge and Lo Pro Edge for Ibanez for decades and those are considered some if the best locking trems ever made.
All Gotoh stuff is pretty damn good. It's a name I've always respected.
Love that you added those specs sheets. Thanks so much!
That Gotoh is similar to a Ibanez lo- pro. I do like that grub screw
Closer to the original edge but gotoh make both edge and lo pro for ibanez they used to make the edge pro too
I modified my JS32 Dinky with a 1996t bridge and I'm happy with the result. The vibrato bar is much sturdier and the tuning stability is improved compared to the Jackson licensed FR that comes stock.
im planning on doing the same on my js32 dinky as well. How much would you say the tuning stability improved? Enough to justify the upgrade?
@@tfbytslols8426 Tuning stability and sustain are both noticeably better. Also the vibrato arm is sturdier. I did have to re-rout the posts to make it work and I lost some room to pull up on the bar. I can still bend notes up about 3 half steps.
Great video. I ordered a 1996T for my EC-1000FR, can't wait to install it
I had a 1996t back in the late 2000s. I do not know how good they continue to be, but it was a winner back then. Really stable and a nice feel, plus it had a quality engineering look to it. It was for an Allparts neck and body super strat build. That was when I found out that chucking a bunch of good parts together does not always add up to a good guitar. They still need top notch fret work, assembly and set up to be really great.
I was quite impressed with an Ibanez edge trem on a RG550 Genesis I had for a week or so. Best thing about the guitar. Pity it was let down by a bunch of other stuff that felt cheap and was faulty etc. The reason I sold though was I could not get on with the super skinny and flat neck profile - I prefer the San Dimas compound radius or some of the Dinky stuff, or a good Explorer.
in case you didn't know, Gotoh make the Ibanez Edge.
Gotoh stuff is mad. I have an Ibanez GRX70QA that I bought just over 5 years ago for $370 brand new. The stock tuners and bridge were ok but they weren't the best. I upgraded to GOTOH locking tuners and bridge and the change in tuning stability and sustain is absolutely awesome. I tune my guitar by ear and tune it a specific way and it doesn't really go out of tune. Just recently I went from Sydney to Brisbane for 3 weeks and took my Ibanez and MkIV with me and wasn't able to play until the second last day so the guitar just sat in the case the whole time. When I finally did play it the guitar was almost perfectly in tune. A slight adjustment on the B ang G string and that was it. I very rarely have to tune it any other time. Just plug in and go. It's my number one guitar and total cost for mods and a setup plus the purchase price of the guitar is less than $1000. Gotoh is Aok in my book 👍
I threw one of these on my Jackson dk2x and it is just such a pleasure to play now.
I don't like Gotoh.
EVERY TIME I tried them I snapped the bar right out!
I love the locking system of the Floyd's bar, its super reliable. I love Floyds.
Now that being said, the actual best bridge I ever had was an Ibanez Edge Zero II.
Man that thing was UNREAL!
Extremely consistent! The bar had a little plastic ring under the locking screw that made it have ZERO wabbling no matter what!
I regret selling that guitar, it was an absolute work horse of massive sound!
It was an Ibanez RG 350MZ, black with a maple scale and a Seymour Duncan SH6.
KILLER sound! I was an idiot and sold it. I'll get another one eventually!
And Ibanez puts Edge Zero II on relatively affordable guitars. Other manufacturers put terrible Floyd Rose Special in guitars priced up to 1000$. So respect to Ibanez for this. By the way, Edge Pro tremolo was designed and produced by Gotoh for Ibanez, so it's possible that Edge Zero also was designed by Gotoh.
I will say this. I did have a Floyd Special laying around and i put it in a used Jem jr I got back in 2016 the original trem was messed up anyway like I said it was used and it was beat up a bit but I got it for under 200 USD. i kept that Floyd special in it till just recently I replaced with a Gotoh. But I never had any real issues with it. It stayed in tune only issue I had was it took awhile to loosen up the fine tuners, I even used Liquid wrench or WD-40 can't remember and it still took time. But now they're fine. I'll probably put it on my friends Chinese copy guitar that he wants me to upgrade for him. However, that being said Gotohs to me are the best after market trems on the market. And for about the same price as a Floyd Special. Again only reason I used a special on my jem jr was cause I had it just laying in around. And I needed something to put in it. But we gotta quit doing videos on how great Gotoh Trems are, they more the secret gets out the higher the price will become.
I have the same king v, love it! Your playing is excellent,been watching for awhile now keep up the good work
Guitars, Gotoh and Greencheeks, subbed... Your little buds are so well behaved, mine used to climb all over my guitars and try to eat the strings when I played, either that or started angry bobbing at my hand as it moved up and down...
Dude yes! I needed this video. I am looking to order the Gotoh for my EVH wolfgang standard. The FR special is trash, and shame on any companies using it.
The retail price on the FR Special is ridiculous.
The Gotoh is great quality at a very reasonable price.
Yeah you can get a 1996T for 120 dollars on Philadelphia Luthier tools and supply they come in Chrome, Gold, Black, and Cosmo black (black nickel, black chrome matches Ibanez cosmo black hardware) . The Gotoh doesn’t come with the locking nut but if you’re upgrading you can use your original nut or buy a Gotoh nut ( they are kinda expensive in my opinion) or source a nut from somewhere else.
I have been looking at cheaper V's with the crappy Floyd Rose with the intention of upgrading to a gohtoh. It is like this channel is geared towards my desires haha. I love your older lesson videos.
I have the 1996T Gotoh on 2 of my guitars and love it..I paid $120 with shipping here in the USA. 2 for the price of 1 of the Floyd made in Germany models.
This is why I'm pissed I didn't find this sooner, I almost just ordered an OFR to replace a special that (as usual) stripped a saddle after probably the 20th string change
I just installed the new Schaller Lockmeister, an exceptional piece of hardware with radiused saddles and radiused nut! Floyd Rose is now offering radiused saddle upgrades!
Just upgrading the brass block, steel inserts and screws to a special make a huge difference. The Gotoh would absolutely be a better option but for 40 bucks for all of that it’s a budget option for a budget guitar. Lubricating where the strings sit and under the locking nut with some graphite lube will help tuning stability too.
Isn't the locking nut meant to keep the string from moving and binding in the nut slots? How does the lube help that?
@@JD-vj4go yes technically I put a tiny bit under the string where it sits on the nut not under the clamping block. I’ve had great results doing that with tuning stability but i only but a tiny bit there maybe once a year.
What a terrific video, perfect timing as I was about to replace a FR special on my Jackson X soloist. This Gotoh bridge is next level at a more realistic price. Thank you! 😎👍
The Gotoh 1996 is awesome. I had one on my custom Suhr Modern and it was the best bridge I’d ever played. It fluttered for about 40 seconds!
Gotoh 1996t Tremolo +redbishop MAGIK-ARM whammy bar +Schaller SureClaw + futone spring =Great tremolo combo
Hell yeah man!!! Thank you for this!! Awesome video! I definitely want to try the Gotoh 1996t now :-)
I have the Gotoh in my Ibanez Jem Jr and have another one for my project guitar.
Down the road usually the screw in arm does get sloppy. The trem socket is very replaceable tho. On my 90,s Charvel/Jackson, I replaced the screw in socket with a standard socket and Floyd arm. Not hard to switch. Lambchopper I love your channel. You are one of the best around at thrashing out the stuff from the Tampa Bay bands.
Thanks!!
Keith.
This video exactly demonstrates why I love the gotoh...I am happy with floyd 1000 and German made series, but I will spend $250+ USD from FU Tone to do all the titanium/brass upgrades that I like for more mass and sustain. The gotoh nails it right out of the box!
I never tried the Gotoh until I got a MIJ Strat that had one. MUCH better than any of my Floyds! The saddles are a bit rounded that make it more comfortable on your right hand, and the fine tuners are angled back in a way that they're completely out of your way...no accidentally hitting them. They're also much smoother. Now I'm in the process of replacing all my Floyded guitars with the Gotoh. ;-)
I Had Gotoh Floyd in my Ernie Ball/Music Man Luke for 28 years...was still working well! Replaced it to a new one when the guitar was overhauled🙂
I actually have one of these in the box. I bought a vintage fender HM strat thinking I’d upgrade the old Floyd but the setup is so perfect on the guitar and it just works so nice I don’t want to mess with it
Thank you very much, this was very useful since im considering which one to choose
My 'go to' guitar in the studio for the last 30+ years is my Sadowsky NYC S Style, which cam fitted with the Gotoh 1088 bridge - impeccable piece of work. They stopped making so Roger switched to the Gotoh 510, altho he mentioned that here is still a version of the 1088 available, but it is inferior to the one he used to use. I'm upgrading a couple of guitars right now and will be going for all Gotoh hardware - that's after long discussions with my guitar tech and exploring many options out there. I should mention I don't use the whammy bar quite the way you just demonstrated! 😅Good luck with the upgrade!
Awesome vid mate, got a Jackson jdr94 and the FR has always been a problem been wanting to swap it out for something different for years, this video was exactly what I was looking for, cheers!!
Hi there, great video. Having made a few electric guitars, the Gotoh unit is brilliant. Easy to fit from scratch and all the parts needed in the kit, no extras needed. For a cheaper version, the Wilkinson Unit is good, but not as well finished, but I'm sure made in the same factory as the Gotoh item.
your a legend Lamb.
I'm installing one on my Schecter Damien 6 Platinum FR atm. Even with the stock studs, it seems like a perfect fit, but I will be installing the Gotoh Stud Locks as soon as possible. So far, I've only installed shortened saddle screws.
I got a Gotoh a few months ago to put on my Charvel. I love it. It’s beautiful because the saddles are the same as an Ibanez Edge. Same company actually.
I'm a big fan of Gotoh. I've moved away from double locking systems. I'm currently putting together a build using a Gotoh Wilkinson VS100. Quality stuff.
2:55 SLAYER!!!!!
Gotoh ftw. I love their stuff. Especially locking tuners. Go on all my
Guitars now
My 2019 Jackson Super Strat and it's sounds kick-ass ! The license Floyd Rose works great, it's setup great and does its job great ! If I ever need to replace it with a Gotoh I will do so based on your video !
I have two of them fitted to Schecters with the Gotoh posts as well. Killer bridges
My Gotoh arrived today. Only option I could find was a 40mm block so I will likely have to swap that out. This video is awesome!
I had to change the sting lock bolts to shorter ones. I don't love the bar itself, but it's a good unit. smooth. I had to change the block as well to fit my axe
That’s the one issue I’ve ran into with the gotoh trems. They actually use the same string lock screws as the Ibanez original edge trem. They’re super long and don’t fit a lot of Floyd routes. As you said though it’s a simple fix.
My 80’s BC Rich gunslinger came with the Gotoh. I love it.
You can do that with a Kayler, and all the stings will still be in perfect tune. At least in my experience. Idk why they aren't all the rave over FR. Since 1988, I fell in love with Kayler. Maybe bc they coast more? But it's for a good reason imo.
Awesome, thanks for this video, i have a couple of early 2000’s japanese jackson’s with floyd rose specials and could never justify paying the price for an original, these look really cool and i’m tempted to check them out now.
Just be aware that the Gotoh might not be a drop in replacement.
The baseplate is a touch larger than a Floyd and the locking bolts extend further back too.
Another choice is the Schaller Lockmeister.
Generally more expensive than the GE1996T, but it's essentially the Floyd Original without Floyd's cut and distribution fees on top.
Thanks for the reminder, lol. I actually have a Special in my LTD I've been looking into replacing with a Gotoh, but kinda forgot about it over time. Some nice tips about setting it up too. I keep it blocked, so I don't know a lot about floating it properly.
Also, nice blocks with the little handle. I use a bunch of coins taped together and it does the job, but was thinking something that fills the space more would make it more solid.
I was surprised to find out my favorite bridge was on an 84 Ibanez Artist. They called it the Pro Rocker. It worked great, stayed in tune and easy to adjust. I had good luck with it
The Gotoh 1996 is my absolute favourite trem.
Any other FR style that needs replacing will become a Gotoh.
They're very well priced, the quality is excellent, kits are very complete, and just the fact they can be ordered with different lengths of (brass) block, means it's the least hassle.
And they're available everywhere rather than ordering every single screw from Floyd Rose in the US - which makes it ridiculously expensive.
My just came friday. I ordered gold one with one emg 81 gold locking gotoh tuner gold and I'm gonna make an order in custom shop for guitar with the same V shape like urs but with one pickup. With golden lines. I like the gotoh they are really good made.
Simply the best and only $119 here in the US! Also you need to replace the studs, the Gotoh ones are special!
I'm using GE1996t for three years and it's just amazing. Sometimes I don't tune my guitar for 2-3 days because this thing hardly goes out of tune!
Never regretted any Gotoh product.
The Gotoh is massively underappreciated but I worry that more people buying them will increase the price.
I genuinely cannot fault this trem, after heaps of abuse and not being able to play the guitar for a couple weeks being away from home I picked it up, pushed the trem all the way down and up a few times to make sure nothing is sticking and checked the tuning. Didn't have to touch any of the fine tuners, played for an hour on it and checked again still perfect.
I need to change the strings at this point and all the fine tuners are still bang in the middle of their adustment because it's so stable.
The Gotoh seriously feels like it is straight up just an improved and modernised floyd rose, all the strengths of the original with some nice upgrades.
Oh man thanks for this! I've got 2 or 3 guitars with the bloody zinc saddles and I'm sick of them stripping. This is a bargain for the quality, You sold me!
Didn’t even know there was any other option besides Floyd rose… this looks awesome.
Youll need to drill out the post holes with the gotoh, i cracked my JS32 king v body installing the 96T posts the first time.
To supplement ->
1) There are various models that have different radii. Also, a lot of the floyds just shim out to get their radii. Manufacturers can OEM specs of various string widths and radii.
2) String tuning isnt completely dependent on the bridge. Its hard to objectively keep this test scientific; but in general, floyd rose original and gotoh 1996t are extremely comparable in quality and should never ever have any tuning disparity between the two. If anything, the gotoh has locking studs, so it technically should be more stable; though In practice it kinda doesnt work out that way (e.g. normal studs that arent wobbly are just fine; the locking portion is basically irrelevant, but it can matter in very very very minor niche circumstances)
3) that bushing on the gotoh is actually adjustable; some people like floppy trem arms, some people like tight ones. The OFR/schaller ones have that screw down ferrule thats ... less easy to dial in how you want. Its either tight or loose; you cant really have it in the middle there lol. Thats a big reason I prefer gotohs myself.
Spec wise, a lot of people dont really understand what makes a floyd rose 1000 cheaper, or why an OFR/schaller is expensive. A lot of it is obviously WHERE its manufactured. Floyd rose 1000's are made in korea a lot cheaper than the american and german counterparts. Gotohs are made in japan and have a controlled cost comparatively. But spec wise, gotohs and OFR's have a fully hardened steel plate; the whole body is just hardened steel with steel saddles. On stuff like floyd rose 1000's, floyd specials, more of your cheaper imports you will have edge hardened plates (This is not really a *huge* issue ,but it is just less precise and more fast for manufacturing purposes and costs), and a lot of the saddles will be just pot metal on the real cheapo ones. 1000s are better overall; steel saddles, proper hardware, just made in korea more or less.
At the end of the day, that "cheap gotoh" is used on EXTREMELY high end guitars from Suhr and Ernie Ball. Its almost functionally identical, usually just stamping and radius changes; though some have different string spacing (ebmm evh for example is more narrow than any you can buy off the shelf). If its good enough for eddie van halen, john petrucci, guthrie govan, steve lukather, steve morse, etc etc etc... its good enough for you (colloquially speaking here haha).
Trems identical to OFR in quality, performance, and materials ->
- TRS-101 (this one can be a REAL steal). NOT to be confused with ANY of the other TRS variants; especially ibanez; though ibanez does use 101's as well.
- Ping OFR ; can be found real cheap sometimes
- Schaller Germany has zinc plate but fully hardened pivots; much heavier than OFR's but equal in performance. .. but just get a 1996T
- Obviously the OFR in general
- Ibanez edge / lo pro are superior to OFR's in every way
- Jackson JT580
- Takeuchi bridges (trs pro variants; they share model numbers with the cheaper ones, so make sure the block says "takeuchi" on it) These are also incredibly cheap and equal to OFR's.
Specifically stay away from the "LO-TRS". This is a garbage trem.
Pragmatically speaking, theres no real reason to change an ofr for a gotoh or vice versa. That list I gave is another bunch that shouldnt really be swapped unless specifically damaged somehow; you wont get a "better guitar" out of it. Though, your money and life so do what you will lol.
Nice video! I've got two Gotoh trems and a few guitars with Ibanez Edge variations. I got an ESP E-II and am already discontent with the Floyd on that in comparison to the ergonomics of the Gotoh or Edge bridges.
I finally tried one on my MJ Dinky after only using Floyd Rose in the past. It's definitely a more comfortable bridge. The saddles have a slope that make them slightly more comfortable for palm muting. It almost feels more like and Ibanez Edge to me. But definitely just as good, if not better than OFR. (Also, took me a year before I realized the trem arm was threaded so it could be screwed in to lower the profile.)
I got the 1996t in my RG760 after the 30 year old edge was on its last leg. It's phenomenal.
I’m replacing the tree on my JS32 so I’m very glad you made this video AND I ran across it. It was very informative.🤘🏻
Have you gone ahead and replaced it yet? I was wondering if it was straight forward and you’d just drop it in. Or did you have to re rout anything?
@ I’ve taken all the measurements and the Gotoh is about 1/4-1/2 mm smaller in width and length. Should drop right in. Will update when it gets here if it fit or not.
Alright thanks! Just bought a js32 warrior and was planning on changing the bridge once it arrives. Just wanna make sure i can get a bridge that’ll drop right in with no issues
Thanks for the review! Been wanting one of these for a little while now. Just have to decide which guitar to put it in. Id prefer to just buy a new one. Nicer guitar. Like a jackson x series at least. I really want a warrior.
Whyyyy, whyyyy I didn't see this video two weeks earlier!!? I swapped the Lo-trs II trem on my 2002 Ibanez RGT42 with 1996t Gotoh, but I did it the hard way - with half an hour tunning. This trick with the wooden block is very very neat!
FYI the Peavey Wolfgang and MM EVH/Axis use company branded Gotoh tremolos.PV has a Ping version.
Replaced Floyd Specials with 1996t systems in a couple of my neck thru LTDs(bridge, posts(required re-drilling), nut & tree, Gotoh tuners as well). Instant chimier tone and sustain to rival LPs(don't hate, its damned close). Super well thought out design and build quality, great stability, positive feel. Found an ebay seller who sells brass big blocks for Gotoh- installed on one of the two, but didn't notice huge difference as 1996t comes with brass. The extra long clamp screws don't work with most routes but can be swapped for standard-length screws. My favorite bridge by far, I still love OFR.
Also, I believe the Ibanez Edge Pro was made by Gotoh and is a slightly modified version of the '96t. FWIW.
The original Ibanez Edge and Lo-pro Edge were manufactured by Gotoh.
The Edge Pro was a redesign of the Lo-Pro Edge.
It was most likely Gotoh made, but I don't have any confirmation.
There isn't even any "Made in Japan" markings anywhere on the unit.
Ibanez also abandoned the locking stud posts of the previous Edge models, which Gotoh held the patent for.
Some of thd earlier Ibanez Edge models had the Gotoh style G on the spring block, making it a dead giveaway.
I’ve been changing my Floyd Rose Specials and Edge II for Gotoh and are the best investment one can make on that regard
So the Gotoh is a straight replacement for the FR Special too bro? Just picked up a Jackson X Kex Kelly
@ yes, I’ve changed it on an Ibanez Kiko Loureiro and a Charvel San Dimas, and fits perfect
I also got one for my 7 strings, I like it as much if not better that the Floyd that was on it before.
You got to check out a Vega trem! It’s a replacement for a 6 screw vintage trem but it floats. Then you have to use a guitar nut buster to lock the strings past the nut. Two expensive pieces of gear but I think it’s the most radical trem that holds the best tuning, only if used with a guitar nut buster locking device. I wouldn’t mind trying a gotoh trem on something. The thing is don’t like about Floyd rose style trems is you need to use shims to adjust action on individuals strings.
Changing the posts (including the threading in the body) makes a huge difference in tuning stability! They get worn too.
Cool video mate. I have one too and agree with everything you said. 👌👌
All the Gotoh stuff is quality, their locking tuners are excellent also.
Great topic to cover man I've had guitars with floyd rose yrem systems on em and they were OK I steer clear of the really cheap units due to they're just a headache that doesn't last, I've wondered what the Gotoh units are like and now I know! Cheers
The Gotoh is the best floyd. Gotoh makes the Ibanez Edge and took all the innovations from that, plus added a better arm adjustment system, and a brass block. Made in Japan, so quality is top notch, and the price is just insane. They even make a 7 string version now too!
I've replaced several cheap Floyd style bridges with the Gotoh over the years. Its my go to for any Floyd routed guitar needing a replacement.
Thanks heaps for this video mate. I been looking at replacing a battered Edge 3 but as you said, a FR O is way overpriced here in Oz. The gotoh looks beautiful and judging from your vid, performs just as well. Im sold brother. Cheers from the sunny coast! 🍻
Lambchopper coming with the info i need. I just got an OFR. I've been avoiding 1,000s but I think I'll get 1,000 now since the 1996 T is not much. Even the seven string isn't and finding an ofr7 string is very hard. Generally cost a lot of money
If I'm in Australia, and I need a guitar tech for a Floyd Rose, I'm gonna come looking. Great stuff! I do not have the same level of skill in terms of setting one up.
I replaced two Ibanez (cheap) bridges with the Gotoh. Sustain increased instantly. I had to make a few changes. I used FR studs to not to have to install the Gotoh studs which are a bit larger and I didn’t w t to drill new holes. I had to shim the bridge to match my radius. Finally, on one guitar I had to switch to FR string lock screws on the bridge as the Gotoh were too long (one is a bit shorter shcaller)). My only complaint with the Gotoh bridge is that the fine tuners are a bit higher than the Ibanez low profile models.
Preach! Great video. The Gotoh is great.
Enjoy your videos keep it up! 👍 Quick question please, can you suggest a pedal or 2 to use with my little Marshall 30w to get a little closer to an Iron Maiden tone? Much appreciated Thanks
an overdrive to push the amp, chorus just to spice the sound. reverb for ambience.. and for solos add a delay
Man, absolutely killer whammy bar solo!
Those are beautiful bridges, would love to try one some day. I have an Ibanez with the Edge Lo Pro which is great but a little worn after 25+ years of use. Love the Original Floyd on my ESP as well. I replaced the arm with the FU Tone push in assembly and it’s perfect, I’ve been using it for a few months and it still has zero play.
Its alot better than a lo pro, and i LOVE the lo pro. Its alot more stable, and you can feel its made out of stiffer steel. I prefer the full movement of the bar on a lo pro, but is what it is
@@quix99 Good to know. One of my biggest issues with the Lo Pro is the arm holder design. It would always come loose and eventually I had to put loctite on the nut on the bottom side of the bridge. It's great now but those plastic bushings still wear out periodically and need to be replaced. The grub screw design is way superior. If I ever replace that bridge I'll likely get the Gotoh 7-string version.
Okie dokie, love the video, straight to the point and no dicken about, ( fellow ozzy here )
I’m curious as to any opinions ( other than tone differences between metals ) about the original Floyd vs Gotoh vs Titanium Floyd copy, made in Japan to exact measurements, the titanium Version I was able to buy for a little more than the Gotoh but it came in a full kit, including locking nut, arm, string tree, posts, block, claw and springs, everything titanium except the block and springs.
I haven’t fitted it yet but I am interested in genuine opinions as only 2 of my collection are floating bridges so I don’t have a lot of experience.
I got myself some Schaller original saddles for my floyd rose special.
Replacing the whole thing is too much for me, but even this change meant no more canals forming because of overtightening the screws and more steady sound when doing squeals.
Great video! Been a fan for a while, man you need to do a mechanix guitar solo lesson video! I cant find one anywhere!
I swear by the Ibanez Edge trems which come with their Premium, Genesis and Prestige guitars. Also made by Gotoh but with an even better bar design.
I had a JS240PSCA and LOVED the (original?) Edge bridge. Most of the other Ibanez variants I've tried have been awful though. The Edge Zero ii in my axion was probably the worst floating trem I've ever used. I put it below a FR special it was so bad.
@@NathanMichalik yep, it needs to be one of the top line models, of which there have been quite a few over the years. Edge, Edge Pro, Edge Zero, etc. The lesser ones vary a lot in quality. It's worth doing the research.
That bar design is worse imo. Those little plastic bushings always wear out over time and they’re ridiculously overpriced to replace. In my Edge Lo Pro 7 the arm holder assembly itself kept coming loose and the whole bar would rattle. I would always have to remove the bridge and tighten the nut on the bottom side. I did that like four times before I finally put loctite on the nut and it hasn’t budged since. Haven’t tried the Gotoh yet, but I have the FU Tone push in arm on my Floyd which seems to be the same design and it’s been rock solid so far.
@@cdsmetalhead99 in my experience the bushes last for ages and the bar always stays exactly where it's put.
@@GarryParkerthe bushings last forever if you don’t remove the bar often. It’s removing and reinstalling the arm that wears them out on those edge trems.
Love the pronunciation from Florida here we say gotoe as the pronunciation hoping to get a budget guitar w a floyed soon
I have the Gotoh to replace the Sinclair in my ESP. This is the best term I've used, the tuning is super stable too
I built my last two guitars with Gotoh GE-1996Ts and what I can say about them is that they are awesome, with two caveats. The first being the length of the string locking bolts at the rear of the bridge. These are longer than an OFR, but can be replaced by the same parts from an OFR. This means the Gotoh might not fit correctly in the back end of the tremolo recess, with the bolts colliding at the back. I designed my guitars to allow a few more mm to allow for this unnecessary oddity. I also noticed that the tremolo is a little "sticky" in the neutral position, re: tuning also. A quick pull brings a slightly flat tuning back up, and a press can drop the tuning. I've had this in OFRs also, but hey. The only bridge I prefer over either is the Ibanez Lo-Pro Edge, but that has its own quirks. I suspect that the OFR/1996T tuning issue may be in the knife edge between the posts and the bridge, and may become smoother with time and use. Not sure if lubing might change this. It could also be movement in the claw/screws settling in use. I might swap out the springs at some point and check for differences. Overall though, the Gotoh units are absolutely a parallel choice against an overly-expensive OFR. Some people just want "authentic" and can't see past that towards alternatives that are just as good. Gotoh all the way for me.
I have the same tuning problem with my ibanez edge 2 tremolo. The tuning goes sharp when i pull back on it but pulling it down corrects it. Wonder if it has anything to do with the knife edge
@@oopsydaizi3s824 This is my thought also. The opposing tensions between the strings and the springs is not linear, and near the neutral point the differences become so negligible that any lack of smoothness in the knife edge fulcrum can "catch" and leave the strings/springs in equilibrium, but in a false position. I sometimes donk the bridge with my palm to bring the strings back in tune if a dive catches them flat. It's pretty common.
I tried upgrading the zinc parts on the Special that came with my EVH Wolfgang Standard. What a huge mistake. I put it all back together and now it won't return to pitch or anything. I'll be getting a 1996 sometime down the road. In the states, it's quite a bit cheaper than an FR 1000 and half the price of an Original. Unlike a lot of people, I actually like the stock screw mechanism on the original FR arm, but I'll be fine with the 1996.
Just save yourself the time and money and get a real Floyd tbh. I've had all three, special, gotoh and now the original and nothing beats the real Floyd's honestly.
@@Mickocarbomb Interesting. What issues did you have with the Gotoh?