Looking for tremolo for Epiphone Les Paul

[BenPerkins]

Basically would like a tremolo for an old Epiphone I have sitting around, one which wouldn't require much modification to the body. Found this - wondering what model of tremolo this is? Can it be ordered separately and how dependable is it (with locking tuners)? Or is there another model I should look at.

Thank you.

 

[Chistopher]

Re: Looking for tremolo for Epiphone Les Paul

That appears to be a Les Paul with a synchronized tremolo, which requires rear routing, which requires very invasive surgery.

Here's your options:

Bigsby: which either requires drilling for the posts or a Vibramate mounting plate.

Schaller 4201: A drop in replacement, most similar to the one you have in that picture. The only issue is you will have two exposed holes from where the stop bar was, but you can put a "CUSTOM" sticker over that.

Floyd Rose FRX: Also drop in, but requires a bit of a setup. Good for extreme floating whammy antics.

There is also the Les Trem II, Stetsbar, and Vibrolas, but those first three that I described are definitely my favorites.

 

[dystrust]

Re: Looking for tremolo for Epiphone Les Paul

Here's your options:

Bigsby: which either requires drilling for the posts or a Vibramate mounting plate.

Floyd Rose FRX: Also drop in, but requires a bit of a setup. Good for extreme floating whammy antics.

Just wanted to add that a Bigsby will require a properly cut and lubricated nut and may require a roller bridge. I have one with a Vibramate on my 335 that stays in tune great, while the one I had on my SG wanted to return 20 cents sharp. The SG has a TUSQ-XL nut and locking tuners, so I'm going to try a roller bridge after the next string change. I'd really like to have the Bigsby on there, but I need the guitar to stay in tune.

Also wanted to add that a Floyd Rose FRX can require a channel to be routed in the guitar's top for the adjustment screw depending on top carve and neck angle. Floyd Rose sells the FRX as "no routing required", but that isn't always true.