Understanding Guitars: Whammy Bars, Bends, and Proper Usage
Guitars, with their versatile mechanisms, offer a wide range of creative possibilities, including the use of whammy bars and bends. However, these features require careful handling to achieve the desired sounds without causing pitch instability or permanent damage to the instrument. This article will delve into the intricacies of using these techniques and provide tips for proper usage.
String Stretching and Tuning
When playing bends and using a whammy bar, strings naturally stretch, causing them to go flat. This is expected behavior, as you are effectively manipulating the tension of the strings. The more you push down and pull up, the more you stretch the strings, leading to varying pitches. This is especially noticeable on guitars with tremolo systems like the Fender Stratocaster, where the strings can go noticeably out of tune with numerous bends and vibratos.
To mitigate this, it is essential to stretch the strings thoroughly during the tuning process. After stringing your guitar, gently pull the strings as far as you can and then tune them to the correct pitch. This helps to reduce the initial stretch and allows the strings to stabilize more quickly. It's a minor but crucial step in the setup process.
Additionally, some advanced techniques, like the Hikiiro in koto playing (a Japanese stringed instrument), can be adapted for guitar. Hikiiro involves pulling the string on the opposite side of the fret while pressing it down, which can lower the pitch temporarily. This technique can be useful for small, quick pitch adjustments during playing.
The Correct Use of Whammy Bars
Many guitarists misuse the whammy bar, thinking that it can be used for dive bombs and other extreme effects. However, this can lead to potential tuning issues and damage to the guitar. The design of the tremolo system on guitars like the Fender Stratocaster was intended for vibrato rather than diving.
For the Stratocaster, the ideal setup involves adjusting the spring system in the back of the guitar, raising the bridge plate to approximately 3/16 inches above the body when the guitar is properly tuned. This ensures a stable and reliable tuning mechanism. Only pull up on the whammy bar when lowering the pitch and be sure to bring it back to the original position afterward.
For guitars with Floyd Rose tremolo systems, diving is possible, but it's essential to use locking tuners to maintain stability. If you mistakenly dive or repeatedly use the bar to lower the pitch without returning it to a stable position, it can stress both the strings and the guitar's components, leading to tuning issues and potentially damaging the instrument.
Improper Use and Remedy
One common misconception is that the whammy bar can cause issues with the bridge or tuners if used incorrectly. While it's true that improper use can add stress to these components, it's not the sole cause of tuning problems. The right setup and technique can significantly reduce the risk.
If you do experience tuning issues, the first step is to ensure that the guitar is properly set up. Check the tension of the strings and the condition of the tuners. Regular string changes and proper maintenance can also help prevent tuning problems.
Remember, the key to using bend and whammy bar techniques effectively is practice and a clear understanding of how these features work. Always be mindful of the forces you are applying to the strings and the guitar's components to ensure that you can achieve the desired sounds while maintaining your instrument's longevity.
Proper setup and maintenance, along with careful technique, are the keys to enjoying the full range of possibilities offered by whammy bars and bends on your guitar.