A question we here at Bigsby receive quite often is that of tuning stability. In this section we offer a few tips that will help you set up your guitar. One thing to remember when setting up your vibrato equipped guitar: all vibratos (all brands and models) operate under the same set of principles. A vibrato changes the pitch of a guitar by allowing strings to go slack, lowering the pitch; or pulling the strings taut, raising the pitch. All guitars have to be set up for this operation to function properly. Another tidbit to keep in mind when using your Bigsby vibrato is that of limitations. The Bigsby vibrato is designed to fluctuate the pitch of your guitar a couple of steps, not dive-bombing 7 or 8 steps.
Step 1: Making sure that the nut on your guitar doesn’t have any burrs. A properly cut nut allows the string to move in a natural fashion. If burrs are present, gently use an appropriately sized nut file or abrasive cord to smooth out the slot. This will help the string return to proper pitch. You can also use a lubricant (pencil lead (graphite) or proprietary lubricant like Big Bends Nut Sauce) in each slot to aid movement. *Easy check to see if burrs are present: when tuning a string up to pitch, listen for ‘pings’, ‘creaks’ or a jump in pitch. It should be a smooth transition from one note to the next.
Step 2: Check the saddles on your guitar-again looking for any impedance. Just like the nut, burrs on a saddle will prevent a string from going back to its original position (in tune). If burrs are detected, a nut/saddle file or abrasive cord can be used to smooth out the slot.
Step 3: Continue your basic setup. Adjust string height (action), curvature of neck, intonation, and anything else to your personal preference. If you are installing new strings, make sure that the strings are properly stretched. See also our How To Re-String guide. Dan Erlewine’s book ‘How to Make Your Electric Guitar Play Great!’ is a great reference to aid in your setup. Erlewine offers numerous in-depth ideas and instructions to get your guitar playing to YOUR specs. The book also features many manufacturers factory setup specifications.