Grover Full-size Locking Tuning Machines

These tuning machines are beyond great...I replaced the stock Gibson Deluxe tuners on my Les Paul Studio and it was a huge improvement. These are much more precise, with really smooth turns and no backlash at all (only 1 of the tuners in the package has a minimum amount of backlash when tuning the string down). String replacement is also quicker with these tuners because you won't need to make ties on the strings to avoid them from slipping and won't need to turn the string around the post more than once (even on the high E string) so say goodbye to the peg winder.

Speaking of the post height, it might be an issue for some players because they're indeed very tall, but in my case it doesn't bother me at all, just be sure to check out the technical drawing in the specs section before buying. Another aspect that might bother aesthetic freaks (not me) although it's not a big deal, is that the gold tuners don't quite match the gold Gibson hardware (at least in my guitar), these tuners are just a little bit brighter, it's a very very subtle difference but wanted to let you know. Instructions supplied are pretty difficult to figure out just by reading them but you will understand how to use the tuners after changing a couple of strings. Pricing is pretty good for all of the benefits...5 stars!

I've tried these fine looking tuners, by carefully installing only one. The locking system is efficient, and the included instructions are useful.

But the post are really too long for my Martin D15, the aesthetics is lost. And you can hit something more easily than with the conventional Rotomatics. I suppose that is impossible for Grover to make shorter posts on this model?

The unique design of these locking tuners with an 18:1 ratio makes them an ideal replacement for the low-end keys that came with my Hagstrom HJ-500. After much deliberation between the 0900, 0877 and 3933 models, the 0877 seemed to be the best choice based on function vs cost. Although a ¼" taller than the other units, this is not an issue. Should I ever move them to another guitar with a thicker headstock, then I’ll be set.

Observing the simple four step “Installation Instructions” provided, I was dazzled at how fast it was to string and tune. Once settled, they stay tuned. Smooth operation, good feel. For a reasonable price and lifetime guarantee, how can you go wrong. Thanks StewMac!

The tuners perform great. Would love them, but they come way to high out of the Gibson headstock. The cover photo on the Stewmac site is kind of misleading. Do check the specs before buying!

Grover Full-size Locking Tuning Machines; Rotomatic. These are fine locking tuners. I agree that they are a little tricky to get set up in the right position for string loading, But; when compared to threading, wrapping and winding conventional tuners so what.
I have literally changed all my tuners to locking on 20 of my guitars. I leave the vintage alone of course. I cannot see any reason past nostalgia or preserving a vintage not to use locking tuners. They are faster and string stretch you get from wrapped/wound tuners is minimized. I have at least one pair of each manufacturers locking tuner made and these are my favorite. The thumb screw type (especially on the small thumb screws) are hard to tighten properly for me and hurt my fingers, so the auto's or Rotomatic are great.

I somewhat agree with 'Alexander James Guitars' review in that they are a little tricky to thread strings through properly. Grover really don't go to too much effort in the packaging to explain this. It's worth one's while to actually draw out the 'cam' mechanism these tuners are bassed on so you fully understand them. However, once past this they perform flawlessly and are a pleasure to use. These particular tuners will accomodate guitars with thick headstocks. 2 of my Tanglewoods have 17.45mm thick headstocks, and the Grover's with the 'Thumbscrew' rear lock left no clearance between the string hole in the peg and the top of the headstock. I might add that in Australia these tuners retail for AUD $170.00! I have the 'Thumbscrew' locking tuners on several Fenders (Strats) and once in a while manage to bump one of them loose enough to have the string pop out. I'll have to try and be not so annimated on stage! The cam locking tuners shouldn't do this.

The reason why I only rated it "good" was because it takes a while to get the technique down to properly string these tuners. Once you do, they preform and tune really nicely.