Just been installing my vega trem, and let me just thank you A TON for this video! It is so much more helpful than anything else I've found online. You've really covered all the details I was hoping to learn about with a great level of simplicity. I appreciate the effort you've put into it my man. Cheers!

Great demo. You’ve got a good touch with the instrument too! Thanks

Very intriguing! Never knew about VegaTrem but I knew if you were using them they must be fantastic. So glad they use the heavy kind of whammy bars instead of the dinky, capped, factory type tremolo arms. I am pleased to see they offer a left-handed option as well. Cannot wait to try this tremolo. And wow your Fender Strat! 😳🤘

hey chris! got the venga-trem today, but was scared to install it without being sure how... found your clip on youtube, watched it carefully and boom: my guitar is updated as can be! great tremolo, guitar stays in tune and the bar works very soft. it took quite a while to get the stringheight right, but with a bit of patience it can be done. thanks for your clip🙂and greetings from switzerland!

I made a wedge from poplar to insert into the trem cavity from the back for string changes. Holds it in place, painless.

@jasonrichardson8531

4 ай бұрын

Might try that thanks

What a beautiful guitar. I absolutely love the color.

I've been doing some research on trems for a new guitar build, which included watching MANY demo videos of the VegaTrem, and I must say this was by far the best - your playing really showed the capabilities, and I especially appreciate the tuning checks at regular intervals (many of the demos skip this crucial part!!). Now if I can just figure out how to do drop D tuning with it (according to VegaTrem, a Tremol-no won't fit on it :-( ) ...

@ilyasrayan4791

Жыл бұрын

Also considering this over traditional Floyd rise (like in Guthrie Govan signature) or a blade runner reel (does not pull up enough…), but if tremol no does not fit you can go with a tremmory, it should be compatible as it is set up as a spring ;) I have tested once a Vega trem and also I had to say it was the smoothest trem ! Even smoother than my Ibanez PIA !

I dropped a Vega in my Malmsteen and absolutely love it. I was wanting to put one in my Nick Johnston Schecter as well but was a bit confused about how the 2 point version worked. Your video was really good at filling in the details. Thanks

@raudoyveloz

2 жыл бұрын

For the schecter check this video kzread.info/dash/bejne/go2Wu9GGd82co5c.html

Very detailed, high quality video. Thanks for this video. Keep up the good work.

I WISH I COULD PLAY. I JUST DONT HAVE IT. IV GOT NO MUSIC ABILITIES. I WATCH EACH & EVERY VIDEO & I AM AMAZED EVER TIME ON HOW WELL YOU PLAY. TODAYS VIDEO WAS VERY IMPRESSIVE! GREAT CONTENT AS USUAL! 🙂👍✌

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!!

Great stuff as always Chris...that is an awesome strat and it deserves the Vega Trem...rock on my brother!!

Been considering, and your installation video further convinced me to go with it! Thank you.

@jasonrichardson8531

4 ай бұрын

Yeah they are like a Ferrari after amazing 😊

Best demo! Wiggle stick mastery!!! 🤘🤘🤘 I found your video, because I was looking to see if spring set screws were in backwards on mine from factory. I was thinking they should be exactly as you had done...makes way more sense. Mine Vega-Trem had been sitting on shelf for several months waiting for time to install, until today. Entire time, tremolo arm stick out of box. How they fit it into box defies laws of physics. 😂😂 Thanks for spectacular demo and helpful tips, Chris Tompkins! 😈

Great stuff as always Chris...the Vega trem is awesome...and that is one very sweet strat....rock on my brother!!

THANKS FOR THIS VIDEO !! YES YOU COVER ALL DEATAILS AND YOU EXPLAIN NICELY. I FOLLOW YOU YESTERDAY AND I INSTALL MY VEGA TREM REALLY HELP ME!! THHANKS

Beautiful guitar

thanks for this - I'm about to install one - very helpful - also makes me think I'll grab a second to put in my CS JB strat - great video!

@jasonrichardson8531

4 ай бұрын

N 1 Nuno Bettencourt and totally changed my guitar amazing

Hey Chris, thanks for the great video which I found really helpful as I'm considering purchasing one of these for one of my strats. Quick suggestion though, a process I've used for over 20 years to set up all my floating trems on my strats. Use a wooden block installed from the rear trem cavity between the trem block and rear wall of trem cavity to put the trem level, and tighten the springs enough to keep the block in there, this will keep the trem stable. I make mine out of cedar door and window shims you can get at the hardware store, place two together and slide till you get correct thickness, trim to size, then super glue them together. With block in place, string up, tune, set saddle height and intonation. Once you are done, slowly loosen the trem claw springs until the block falls out. At this point, all strings will be flat a bit since you had to loosen enough to get the block out. Don't retune the strings, simply tighten the claw springs until the low and high e strings are in tune and you are good to go. The rest of the strings will be perfect. Saves an awful lot of time and headache I've found. I use the block when I change strings as well, makes short work of it.

dude, that color is amazing! i don't think ive seen one like that but no wonder, its from 95. you dont see a lot of 90s fenders around for sale. Theres a custom shop strat, its a one off with a finish modeled after a pint of Guinness, its got a unique pickguard too, sort off thinline tele, it looks awesome

Best video yet on this tremolo. Thanks a bunch man. ROCK ON!!!!!!!!

Love how you play. Awesome stuff.

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Thank you kindly!

The best vega video I've seen on KZread. Thanx for sharing.

I just preordered their new VT2nd for my homebuilt Tele. Can't wait to try it out. Must have been a TARDIS box to fit that trem arm in there!

Sweet vid man. I just bought one of these. and also a Hot Rail Bridge as well funnily enough. looking forward to getting it all and giving it the full shwang

Thank God the Strat that I'm installing this on has been fitted with locking tuners.

Nice work, and killer demo Chris..

Hi Chris, first of all, I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to make this video. I have a "Custom Strat" myself from 1999. It means the world to me. But as you know, guitar parts wear out a little. I just had new frets and Lollar pick-ups put in last yr. I've been on the fence about the bridge...but it's also time for a new one. I've been "eye-balling" this "Vega Trem" for awhile now. I wasn't sure about the installation. What was really throwing me was the two screws in the front of the original bridge. You know how ours have that opening in the front of the screw holes? I'm thinking "is this going to fit"? I had NO idea until...Wa-La...I came across your video and you explained everything that was troubling me. I can get one thru Amazon...unless you know somewhere better? Anyway, thanks for giving back brother. You really helped this fellow guitar player.

I love my Vega Trem... I wish they would make slightly shorter arm tho. Nothing wrong with the arm they make, it's just my personal preference

What a Fab colour 😍 I think the Vega term is like the cherry on top, it's a pity that manufacturers don't have other trem options in their ranges. Instead of the bog standard old originals. John.

Channeling some serious Alan Murphy there! Great looking strat and great playing ,thanks for sharing

That was an awesome vid man. I don’t even really use these style of bridges but that one looks fun on my Strat

Christopher, thank you for the best install video of the best trem! Just installed my first Vega-Trem on one of my Strats a couple of weeks ago. Would have been nice if I had your video for my install, as you have some good tips. Wish you would have shown a little of the process for action and intonation adjustment, but in hindsight, it's pretty easy. Have to agree, it's hands down the best trem out there - easy setup, incredible tuning stability, amazingly smooth and sensitive. Leo Fender would approve! I've also installed an AxLab Tone Claw locking spring claw on mine, which I think kicks the sustain up a notch. How about a review on that combo?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip!! I'll have to check out that claw!

Everything I need to know except the process of setting the string height and setting the intonation. Another video showing showing this procedure would be cool, in order of strings that go first to last if that matters. Thanks

Thanks for the detailed setup-I’m thinking of getting one for my Mexican strat

great demo

that is the most beautiful guitar. wow.

Dude you are a phenomenal player

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

9 ай бұрын

Thanks!! :)

Unlock those saddle locking screws anytime you adjust the saddles, up or down, or for intonation. You are absolutely right! I know what happens if you don't. Wish I would have understood how important that advice was before installing my VT. SMH

Great video! Now I want to install one on my mid 90s American Strat. And maybe replace my standard bridge pickup.

convinced... will check one out on the next build. Dig the playing and tone too!!! Nice work... Probably shouldn't say this, but, I think you could be nicked named Chubby Van Halen.

Nice guitar. Just ordered the vega trem

Great vid mate. second one i have watched & i know i'm going with Vega.

Love that you give it some abuse in a more rock context vs this super sweet melodic style playing. I am considering one of these to replace my wilkinson VS100. I've got it installed well but the block is bigger which is great for sound but totally cuts it range bottoming out. Have guitars with floyds but hate the locking nut. PITA. It's costly but seems like it might be the best solution.

The “ha ha dum-dum!” moment cracks me up.

Best floating trem with no damaging mods to the guitar. BTW, that HOT RAILS is my favorite Duncan unfortunately he does not make a full size humbucker version of it.

What a nice soothing voice

To make that a better installation use a Schaller Sure claw spring tension adjuster.

Thank you Chris!

this video definitely convinced me to put a vega trem on my strat and they make them lefty too!

Thanks for the vid 🤘🏽

Great video! Your guitar is a beast and a beauty, I LOVE the color of the body. I saw the same guitar on sale on an famous english site several years ago... Maybe this is that guitar. BTW, I'd like to upgrade a nice Fender Player (in Ferrari Yellow). I think I'm going to buy a Vega Trem but I'm struggling for the choice of the tuners (Fender locking? Hipshot? Gotoh?)... Any advice for me? Are you using locking tuners also? Cheers from Belgium!

Nice Strat😍

wish i could play like you sir❤

Yeah, I really like this (and many other) vid too. I get mine "allegedly" sometime this week. Looks easy enough.....

You're a good player!

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

4 ай бұрын

Thanks!!

Just got mine!

Considering putting a Vega Term in my Japanese Squier!

Awesome guitar and trem - relatively easy fit too. Has your custom shop Strar got locking machine heads too? Great video thanks😊👍

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

2 жыл бұрын

Yes it does!

Hey Chris, very useful video! Are you using staggered locking tuners here? Wondering if it's worth switching to staggered while my strat is disassembled or if the roller trees will be fine. Thanks!

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Yes. Staggered Locking tuners. I'm a big fan! String trees just add another friction point for the string to get hung up on... Any time I can get rid of string trees, I will.

How far down do you lock the saddles? When locking the saddles should the back of them be flush with the body or down so the front of the saddles are pointing up a little ?

Hey Chris ! Thank you for the video and review! And yes it’s a fact this is the best trem on the market ! Do you know if this can be mounted in Charvel DK24 instead of gotoh 510 ? I’m really considering buying one for a charvel.. if it does not fit I will probably go for a luthier guitar. Thanks a lot in advance for your feedback !

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, I'm not certain... I'd hate to give you bad info. Sorry Bud.

@ilyasrayan4791

Жыл бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear non problem ! Thanks for your answer dude. I believe it is not compatible due to the recessed area for the gotoh 510 vibrato

@ilyasrayan4791

Жыл бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear another question, does it has any impact to have the spring claw straight or angled ? To have the trem parallel it is only a matter of balance between springs/strings tension, so I guess it has no impact does it ? Thanks for the answer in advance !

That's a very handsome guitar. I love metal flake finishes or whatever they call it these days. I'm not a big fan of single coils and I like the bridge pickup. What brand is it? Do you have the option of splitting the coils?

@johnwelwacnisen948

Жыл бұрын

Seymour duncan hotrails, and yes u can split it.

Nice work Chris..... what pickup do you have in the bridge....much appreciated !

Hey, thanks for this video! I really enjoy your playing and phrasing. Do you know what the string spacing is? is it vintage wide, or narrow like the Mexican ones? I'm debating getting one of these but cant find that info anywhere.

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! The E to E spacing is 53.5mm as seen here: vegatrem.com/quality/

Same thing I can’t get the bar back into the box 😂 and yes it is the best trem in the world.

Hi, nice Job. What is the distance from the center of one pivot to the other? I have a two point wilkinson trem bridge which is 57 mm, and I want to replace it for a Vegatrem. Just to make sure if it fits.

Can you set up the trem to not go sharp (decked)? And, do you have any control over the arm tension? I had another makers version with no way to loosen the arm tension -

@jubjub905

2 жыл бұрын

No you cant deck it without putting a block in the back, which frankly defeats the purpose. What brand did you have?

dude! you have a very serious mice problem! I can even hear them talking over in some parts of the video!, on a serious note, nice job with this install demo!

Nice man ! What's the the bridge pickup your using?

I just installed one of these on my American Standard Strat and noticed when I put the breast plate back on in the back it covers the holes of the block where the strings go. So when restringing that won’t work unless you use the whammy bar to move the holes in place. But that’s kind of a pain. What do you do about this issue? I also had an issue trying to get my string action up high enough. I unscrewed bolts in the back first and had to screw down the little Allen screws quite a lot and my action still isn’t where I usually have it. Which is a little high. Any suggestions?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

2 жыл бұрын

I'm not exactly sure what you're experiencing... I have installed these tremolo's in 5 guitars now, without a single issue. Without a visual representation of what you're experiencing, I'm afraid I can't help you figure out the problem you're having...

these look great, but was wondering if it's possible to adjust them from side to side, to get the string alignment perfect? I'm guessing so, as it sits on a blade!

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, you can adjust the side to side for perfect alignment.

I like your tone

thank you

I had a Vega trem installed in my strat just yesterday and since watching your video I see my bridge sits back from the body it is not sitting flush. Should I use a lighter spring and if so dose this mean I need to have the intenation reset?

@airpros9927

Жыл бұрын

Everything needs to be adjusted. Start with springs in back, then re-tune

Threat video!!!

How does the trem handle bends? Will it stay in tune? For example, if you bend the b-string up a whole step, do the other strings drop in pitch?

@jubjub905

2 жыл бұрын

Not as much, but you cant defeat physics so it does happen to a degree

@Fotosaurus56

2 жыл бұрын

I have a '90 Fender Strat Plus which came stock with a Hipshot Tremsetter. You can bend single notes without other notes going flat.

Thanks for the video, but I have a question, how do you go about changing the strings?, there’s no video on KZread about this, hopefully you can make a video on how to do this, thanks

Great demo! Having installed 5 others, you’ve suffered the trial & error for us. How about bridges with screws instead of post? Is there a different model?

@roderickgful

8 ай бұрын

AHH, you answered my question at the end!

Hey Chris! I’m about to perform this same install on a body with no holes drilled for trem placement. I have the two point Vegatrem and a drill press, but I’m not sure where to install the American studs for the Vega screws. Any ideas? Thanks!

@burresseffects

Жыл бұрын

I figured it out, but not without some trial and error. I think I ended up drilling and dowel plugging the damn holes 7 or 8 times. Got there in the end though, and the Vega Trem works a treat. Too bad I lost one of the intonation screws somewhere in the install. Not sure how that happened, but time to fire off an email to their support staff.

Hey, I'm a big guy and was wondering if you have any recommendations for larger chairs, I'm setting up a new studio desk and not really able to get out and try some. Thanks.

@StoveFortuna

3 жыл бұрын

Steelcase Leap v1. I got mine from a refurb shop. Arms dip low and don't get in the way of my playing.

So on a 74 strat with five screws holding the bridge down to the body you would only use two with this system?

You have explained everything beautifully I just can't find such adapters Where did you manage to buy Could you give us the contact details of this shop?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Ай бұрын

www.amazon.com/Guitar-Saddle-Bridge-Height-Adjustment/dp/B07BK7LR83/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35206G8HUT5F6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fA2xpPmZnvebpfLDg5PFggcZ_-IYTOVyNBlIUW9NorVxaoudo6MHKLpHl41IJybKZ6OcQDfFs8AqGWgDDBocK1S4ibohboEGt1OmFRGpY8vjSGNsqwg3zTXwq9HWTriyjpduRR_kNWsfKb3s3-ka6ol6Ao-44n-12tMu5qnt63S504xSzjtpoOutSi9j_3zHl4fUgVX3p1h1RPr3nWktVPSsGaQ0roEFhqFH0GeLyhYjaH_NGdTzOtkvWTXif_3wRqGac-Rtpnwp7YCyEJWSOm8kF7cquemdX8D1u2xS3p4.mTtYATTb22QUIk2qcIVAvdtrOs9HzGtZ0UMs9CbQXGo&dib_tag=se&keywords=monsterbolt&qid=1719320338&sprefix=monsterbolt%2Caps%2C183&sr=8-1&th=1

@blackstopa

Ай бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear - thank you !

I got one. I only reccomend getting one though... As tempting as it is to have this on all of my guitars or at least most of them... That's a lot of money lol. And let's get real... 99% of the time you don't use the bar. That being said... This product is amazing. Floyde rose but looks sharp.

@airpros9927

Жыл бұрын

Your opinion. But if your a touring pro. You need top notch gear and this hands down secures any problems on the road for you. Last thing you need is crappy tremolos even from custom shop strats that go out of tune. Like most things. Quality is expensive but lasts a lifetime

Hi. How do you think, two hole vegatrem fulcrum possible to install on 6 screw strat? or is it has bigger height?

danke schon

I'm very interested in this but it doesn't look like it will fit a Squier Standard Strat with the 2 point trem. The posts are 64mm centres.

So I got one of these and I’m having an issue with intonation. My strings keep reading flat and I cannot move forward enough to get a proper intonation. Anyone else have this issue?

What bridge pickup are you running? Sick tone bro.

@These_go_to_eleven_1959

Жыл бұрын

Duncan Hot rails! Best hot strat pu ever!

Hi Chris, I have a question: did the threaded tubes screw tightly into the original tremolo posts? Because on my guitar (Harley Benton Fusion HSH), they sank into the posts without needing additional screwing. I noticed that another KZreadr (Jon is just TOO LouD!!) showcased the same "installation issue" but said he didn't bother as it didn't give him significant issues. In the last two days, the fulcrum has risen. Two days ago, it was flush on the guitar top, now there is a gap of 0.5mm circa, and this thing is starting to concern me. I've written to VegaTrem's Customer Support, but they have yet to reply and a week has gone by!

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Ooh. That's not good. The threaded insert is supposed to screw into the the existing posts. If not, the thing can come out and even damage your guitar. Did you try the Asian inserts? They're slightly larger than the American inserts. If neither fit, you need to replace the inserts that are in your guitar, with a set of fender posts. Your guitar is not safe as is.

Really enjoy your videos Chris! I got a problem with my vegatrem, while I pull off it keeps coming out from the tremolo bar side. I reinstalled it again but it's been the same case. Please help.

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

2 ай бұрын

Are you sure the the knife edges are set in the grooves of the mounting block? It's easy for them to not be aligned if there's no tension from the strings. Also, make sure the tension between the springs and the strings are balanced (when in tune), so that the tremolo top is perpendicular to the top of the guitar body.

@imtinuksungjamir3290

2 ай бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear Okay, I'll try that. Thanks.

hey thanks a lot chris got mine on order can ye tell us what pickups you using

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Fender stock pickups in the neck and middle. SD Hotrail in the bridge.

By the way. They sent it to you for the video only. Now they want it back.

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

3 жыл бұрын

LOL!! Imagine...

Hi there! Do you know on any other tips on how to provide better tuning stability with floating bridges?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

There are a few things that will help. The nut is cut properly for the gauge of strings you are using. The nut slots are properly lubricated with either graphite or an actual nut grease. Low profile locking tuners will also help. They can eliminate the need for string tree's. Also, make sure the tremolo contact points are lubricated as well. So, where the knife edge meets the posts. or screws etc... Make sure there are proper witness points on your strings, coming off of the saddles and out of the tuners. Hope that helps!

@metalhead_1996

Жыл бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear Alright, thanks for the details! Will try this out!

Any issues for you with spring noise? I'm finding the Vegatrem almost unusable with how loud the spring noise is with the included springs

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Personally, I always put a piece of foam under my springs by default. All springs are noisy, regardless of the tremolo style.

@JGorg8

Жыл бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear sure they can all be noisy, but I just replaced a PRS trem with 4 springs, and the 2 on the vegatrem are ridiculously louder (the PRS springs are dead silent). I've never had foam on any of my PRS trems, but it's a necessity on this trem.

What gauge Strings are using on your Strat with the Vega Trem?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

2 жыл бұрын

I think I have 9's on this one.

Which Duncan is that in the bridge? Hot rails? sounds good.

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

5 ай бұрын

Yes Sir. Hot rails.

@HighPriestVaticanAssasin

5 ай бұрын

Sounds great.@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Actual guitar work starts at 10:00

nice man whats the bridge pick-up

Hi Chris, what is your blade P/U in the bridge, A Dimarzio maybe?

@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear

Жыл бұрын

Seymour Duncan Hotrail

@These_go_to_eleven_1959

Жыл бұрын

@@ChrisTompkins-Music-And-Gear That is my Favorite Duncan but he only makes them in strat size. I mostly use full size humbuckers in the bridge, The Dimarzio Tone zone is similar but lacks some things the Hot rails has.

I'm completely stuck on this installation. The little tiny screws on the bottom to lock the springs in place just aren't turning. I'm just not seeing a FAQ or tutorial with this issue.