Upgrading your older .strandberg* guitar to EGS Rev 7 hardware
Introduction
The EGS Rev 7 hardware, first introduced with the NX series in 2021, brings updated tuners, string locks, and refinements to the tremolo unit. If you own an older .strandberg* guitar with Rev 5 or older hardware, you may wonder whether you can retrofit Rev 7 parts, which components are directly replaceable, and what limitations exist for certain models. This guide covers tuners, string locks, and tremolo units, providing practical advice for upgrades.
Tuners: Retrofit & Upgrade
The EGS Rev 7 tuners and baseplates will fit all earlier .strandberg* guitars with hardtail tuners.
On pre-NX tremolo models, the tuners can be fitted to the unit, but the grooves in the tremolo baseplate are slightly too wide to keep the saddle screw fully locked in place. While this is not usually a problem when the strings are on, the screw can spin freely during string changes and affect the action.
Rev 7 tuners are not compatible with the Boden Essential series, which uses the newer EGS Arc hardware.
Compared to earlier generations, Rev 7 hardware introduces reinforced steel threads in the baseplates to prevent stripping and a self-locking saddle screw that makes string changes quicker and more secure. Installation is straightforward: remove the strings, unscrew the old tuners and baseplates, and install the new units in the same positions without modification.
String Locks: Retrofit & Upgrade
Rev 7 string locks fit all Indonesian-made .strandberg* guitars from all generations without modification. They also fit most guitars made in Korea, China, the USA, Japan, and Sweden.
Because there have been small variations over the years, owners of non-Indonesian instruments are advised to confirm compatibility by contacting our support team at support@strandbergguitars.com with photos of their current string lock arrangement.
Installation is simple: remove the old string locks and mount the new units in the same position. No drilling or modification is required when the fit is confirmed.
Tremolo Unit: Retrofit Limits
It is technically possible to fit Rev 7 tuners on most pre-NX tremolo-equipped guitars, but there are some limitations with the tremolo baseplate. On these older models, the grooves in the baseplate are slightly wider than on Rev 7 designs, which prevents the saddle screw from fully locking into place.
This generally does not affect the structural integrity of the tremolo or the overall playability of the guitar. Strings will stay in tune, and the guitar can be played and set up normally. One thing to keep in mind is that during string changes: the saddle screw will not be secured and it may spin freely, which can affect string action while restringing.
Even with this limitation, the tuners can be fitted safely, still providing some improved durability and convenience compared to older hardware.