I'm going to have to be contrarian regarding the above choices. I can't stand the big freakin knobs on the back of each tuner.
The Gotoh Vintage Locking Tuner looks like a Fender vintage tuner even from 3 feet away. The only difference is that instead of feeding the string into the top slot, you use a dime to lock the post down on the string... and then tune away! Lightweight, functional, and attractive.
I like the looks of those. I don't like the idea of needing a dime or a flat head to change my strings though.I'm going to have to be contrarian regarding the above choices. I can't stand the big freakin knobs on the back of each tuner.
The Gotoh Vintage Locking Tuner looks like a Fender vintage tuner even from 3 feet away. The only difference is that instead of feeding the string into the top slot, you use a dime to lock the post down on the string... and then tune away! Lightweight, functional, and attractive.
I don't like the look of Vintage tuners
Besides that, I don't think they look good on an ESP guitar cop0
They also make modern ones with the lock.
Chad, I've had the wheel type get stuck and I have to use plyers to grip the wheel and unlock them.
Placing an allen wrench or a dime in the slot to unlock is Waaaaaay more convenient. The best are the PRS ones that have a little gripper on the top of the post. You can often unlock them or tighten them with your fingertips... but no huge, heavy wheel on back.
Best?
Steinberger. But they take some getting used to look wise.
And not easy to find...
I'll be honest, I hate those tuners. They are a giant PITA to change strings on a dark stage between sets. I actually ordered them by accident and when that guitar gets sent back to Mark for a new neck in the next few weeks its going to get a set of the normal Gotoh Klusons that I have on the 454. They stay in tune just fine without all the locking stuff.I have them on all of my Strats... Mark has them on his McFeely.
That's just the thing about them... when they're on there, you don't even realize they're locking tuners other than there isn't a zillon wraps around each post.