SE Tremonti for Down Tuning

[jeff5]

I'm considering buying an SE Tremonti and using it for C# standard (mainly Sabbath) and other down tuned stuff. I hear nothing but good reviews of PRS's SE line and of the Tremonti in particular and I want something relatively cheap.

What I want to know is will the bridge be able to be intonated if I tuned down? I know that on some PRS guitars you can't intonate and this may be an issue. Or will it? I've never owned a PRS and have no experience with their bridges or the like. I'm interested in anyone's thoughts who have used this particular model, or any really, for down tuned work.

Thanks!
Jeff

 

[Hopeful Sinner]

Just a suggestion, but were I you, I would look at the Clint Lowery SE model that is about to come out. Ships tuned to C# (drop B) and has a 25 1/2 inch scale and an adjustable stoptail...

OR

Mike Mushok SE Baritone.. But, a baritone will be a bit different than just a regular guitar that has been tuned down, in feel and sound...

 

[jeff5]

Thanks! That guitar looks awesome and would seem to work. Its something I will definitely consider!

I am kind of a fan of Singlecuts though which is why I was targeting the Tremonti. I'm fine with pick up swaps, set ups, etc., so that's not an issue. I guess I was just wondering if the bridge on the Tremonti would be able to be intonated if I down tune.

 

[Hopeful Sinner]

I was just wondering if the bridge on the Tremonti would be able to be intonated if I down tune.

If you do the SE Tremonti Custom I think you'll be fine...

 

[maxtuna26]

well, tremonti has a few songs in drop B in his solo album. the SE was modelled after his USA signature model so i'd say yes it works stoptails work for drop tunings all the time, but intonation problems often happen with guitars tuned so low. take it to an experienced tech if you're having problems. if you're talking about the SE Tremonti Custom with the tremolo though, i'm not so sure, never tried drop B on my SE Custom 24 as i only had 10-46s on and it feels too loose even at drop Db. better make sure you use strings thicker than telegraph wires, and the nut should probably be filed to fit em though :/

 

[Raven17]

I put 11's on my Tremonti SE and have it tuned to open B with no issues at all. Did this specifically for some of Marks songs including Brains from his solo album.

 

[jeff5]

Thank you everyone for the great feedback. Lot of stuff for me to think about =).

 

[jeff5]

That Clint Lowery model is calling to me more and more =). Does anyone know if the pick ups are real HFS/VB? They say SE HFS and SE VB. I don't know if that means they're different or just that they're in an SE! =).

Honestly, not a huge issue, I can swap them with ease, but I wouldn't mind trying some real PRS pick ups as I never have.

 

[Chris528]

That Clint Lowery model is calling to me more and more =). Does anyone know if the pick ups are real HFS/VB? They say SE HFS and SE VB. I don't know if that means they're different or just that they're in an SE! =).

Honestly, not a huge issue, I can swap them with ease, but I wouldn't mind trying some real PRS pick ups as I never have.

I can't wait for this guitar to come out. With Sevendust being my favorite band and already having their other guitarist's custom model I have to have this.

They are SE pickups based on the US models.

 

[vchizzle]

Whatever you decide, I would make sure you have something that you can adjust the individual saddles for intonation on with tuning that low. The SE Lowery and SE Tremonti custom will both do that. Depends on if you want a SC w/trem or doublecut w/ stoptail. You could also get the SE Tremonti w/stoptail and put a tone pros adjustable stoptail on...or get one of these http://www.prsguitars.com/sefredrikakesson/ Keep in mind that one is a 24.5" scale giving you a "slinkier" feel to the strings with less tension. Tremonti is 25" and Clint is 25.5". Lots of things to take into consideration! good luck!

 

[maxtuna26]

Whatever you decide, I would make sure you have something that you can adjust the individual saddles for intonation on with tuning that low. The SE Lowery and SE Tremonti custom will both do that. Depends on if you want a SC w/trem or doublecut w/ stoptail. You could also get the SE Tremonti w/stoptail and put a tone pros adjustable stoptail on...or get one of these http://www.prsguitars.com/sefredrikakesson/ Keep in mind that one is a 24.5" scale giving you a "slinkier" feel to the strings with less tension. Tremonti is 25" and Clint is 25.5". Lots of things to take into consideration! good luck!

The zach myers model is also a 25" scale model with the adjustable stoptail, though that 3rd pickup and the inlay might be deal breakers for many :dontknow:

 

[solacematt]

If you're using 11's you should be fine. Also, if you're going to dedicate the guitar to that tuning, I would suggest having it professionally set up for that tuning. Only downside is that you can't tune up without screwing up the neck, but once again, if you're going to use that guitar only for that tuning and maybe a bit lower go for it.