Les Paul with Tremolo Bar: Models & Techniques

The legendary *Gibson*, a brand synonymous with innovation, once dared to equip its iconic Les Paul model with the expressive capabilities of a tremolo bar. Guitarists seeking to emulate the soaring bends of *Jeff Beck*, known for his masterful use of the whammy bar, often explore modified or custom Les Pauls. Many players find the *Bigsby vibrato*, a popular aftermarket addition, offers a vintage aesthetic and smoother action compared to some modern tremolo systems on a les paul with tremolo bar. Exploring the techniques involved in using a les paul with tremolo bar reveals a fascinating intersection of tradition and experimentation, as players adapt their skills to coax new sounds from this classic instrument.

The Les Paul & The Temptation of Tremolo: A Love Affair with Pitch

The Gibson Les Paul. Just the name conjures images of rock gods, screaming solos, and a legacy forged in the fires of innovation.

It’s the solid-body electric guitar that helped shape modern music.

But what happens when that icon isn’t quite enough? What drives a guitarist to consider adding a tremolo system – a feature decidedly not part of the original Les Paul blueprint?

Let’s dive into this fascinating intersection of tradition and modification, exploring the why, how, and what-ifs of the tremolo-equipped Les Paul.

A Legacy Etched in Mahogany and Maple

The Les Paul’s story is legendary. Born from the mind of the innovative guitarist, Les Paul, and brought to life by Gibson, it quickly became a cornerstone of rock, blues, and beyond.

Its carved top, set-neck construction, and powerful humbucker pickups deliver a sustain and tone that’s instantly recognizable.

It is a sound that has defined generations of guitarists.

Its inherent sonic character is a significant reason why its deviation raises eyebrows.

The Siren Song of Pitch-Bending

For many guitarists, the desire to add a tremolo is simple: the lure of expressive pitch manipulation.

A tremolo system – often mistakenly called a "vibrato" – allows you to bend notes, create shimmering effects, and even dive-bomb into sonic mayhem.

This opens up a whole new world of sonic possibilities.

It allows players to infuse their playing with emotion and individuality.

It’s important to clarify that "tremolo" and "vibrato" are often used interchangeably, but technically, they are different effects. Tremolo is a change in volume, while vibrato is a change in pitch.

The hardware we’re discussing here – the Bigsby, Floyd Rose, Vibrola, etc. – are all vibrato systems in the strictest sense.

Modification: A Double-Edged Sword

Modifying a Les Paul with a tremolo isn’t a decision to be taken lightly.

It can dramatically alter the instrument’s sound, playability, and even its value.

Routing (carving) into the body is often required to install a tremolo system. This can affect the guitar’s resonance and sustain.

The added hardware also changes the guitar’s weight distribution. Players may find that the neck is heavier than the body when a tremolo is installed.

Furthermore, adding a non-original tremolo can decrease the resale value of a vintage or collectible Les Paul.

However, for many players, the benefits outweigh the risks. The ability to add unique expressive elements to their sound trumps any concerns about resale value or minor changes in tone. It’s a personal choice, and one that reflects the player’s individual artistic vision.

[The Les Paul & The Temptation of Tremolo: A Love Affair with Pitch
The Gibson Les Paul. Just the name conjures images of rock gods, screaming solos, and a legacy forged in the fires of innovation.
It’s the solid-body electric guitar that helped shape modern music.
But what happens when that icon isn’t quite enough? What drives a guitarist to consider…]

The Architects of the Tremolo Les Paul: Players and Makers

The journey of the tremolo-equipped Les Paul is a fascinating tale of innovation, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of sonic possibilities. It’s not just about adding a whammy bar; it’s about reimagining an icon. This quest is driven by a diverse cast of characters, each playing a crucial role in shaping this unique corner of guitar history.

Les Paul: A Visionary’s Spirit

It’s easy to forget that the Les Paul itself was born from a desire to break new ground. Les Paul, the man, was an inveterate tinkerer, a relentless innovator who never stopped pushing the boundaries of what an electric guitar could be.

His vision for the solid-body electric guitar was all about sustain and clarity, qualities that were revolutionary at the time. This spirit of innovation is the same spirit that fuels the quest to add tremolo systems to his namesake guitar.

He sought continuous improvement and sonic exploration; he would have appreciated the evolution of his design.

The Masters of Modification: Luthiers and Guitar Techs

Behind every successful tremolo-equipped Les Paul is a skilled luthier or guitar tech. These are the unsung heroes who possess the knowledge and expertise to execute these modifications flawlessly.

Routing a Les Paul for a Floyd Rose or meticulously installing a Bigsby requires precision and a deep understanding of the instrument’s construction. Their craftsmanship is what transforms a guitarist’s vision into reality.

These craftspeople are more than just technicians; they are artists in their own right, shaping and molding the guitar to meet the specific needs of the player. Their expertise ensures that the modification enhances, rather than detracts from, the instrument’s inherent qualities.

Tremolo-Loving Titans: Guitarists Who Dare

While the Les Paul is known for its sustain and thick tone, many guitarists have sought to expand its sonic palette with the addition of a tremolo. From subtle shimmers to dramatic dives, these players have demonstrated the versatility of the tremolo-equipped Les Paul.

Think of artists who have incorporated tremolo into their Les Paul sound; they are the trailblazers who inspire others to explore the possibilities. Their innovative use of the tremolo proves that even a classic instrument can be reinvented.

These players demonstrate that the Les Paul can be far more than a blues or rock machine.

Gibson’s Own Experiments: A History of Factory Tremolos

Gibson has a long and sometimes inconsistent history with tremolo systems on the Les Paul. From the vintage Vibrola systems of the ’60s to more modern approaches, the company has experimented with various ways to add pitch-bending capabilities to its flagship model.

The vintage Vibrola systems, while visually appealing, often suffered from tuning instability. More recent Gibson models have incorporated improved designs.

These factory-installed tremolos offer a glimpse into Gibson’s ongoing efforts to cater to the evolving needs of guitarists, showcasing their willingness to embrace innovation while staying true to the Les Paul’s core identity. These production models offer the opportunity to experiment and explore what is possible.

Tremolo Systems: A Deep Dive into the Options

[[The Les Paul & The Temptation of Tremolo: A Love Affair with Pitch
The Gibson Les Paul. Just the name conjures images of rock gods, screaming solos, and a legacy forged in the fires of innovation.
It’s the solid-body electric guitar that helped shape modern music.
But what happens when that icon isn’t quite enough? What drives a guitarist to c…]

Adding a tremolo to a Les Paul opens up a world of sonic possibilities, but with so many options available, it’s essential to understand the nuances of each system. From the vintage charm of the Bigsby to the high-performance capabilities of the Floyd Rose, the choice can significantly impact your guitar’s tone, playability, and overall character. Let’s explore some of the most popular tremolo systems found on Les Pauls.

The Bigsby: A Touch of Vintage Vibe

The Bigsby is synonymous with retro cool, bringing a smooth, subtle vibrato to any guitar.
Its origins trace back to the 1940s, and it quickly became a favorite among country and rockabilly players.

History and Design

Designed by Paul Bigsby, the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece features a simple yet effective design.
A roller bar coupled with a spring-loaded arm allows for smooth pitch bending.
This creates a distinctive warble that’s less about dramatic dive bombs and more about adding gentle expression to chords and melodies.

The Classic "Les Paul with Bigsby" Setup

A Bigsby on a Les Paul is a timeless combination.
It typically involves mounting the Bigsby B7 model, which is designed for archtop guitars, onto the Les Paul’s carved top.
This setup often requires a Vibramate adapter, which allows for installation without drilling any new holes into the guitar’s body, preserving its value and integrity.

The Bigsby Sound

The Bigsby imparts a unique sonic signature, adding warmth and a slightly softened attack to the Les Paul’s inherent tone.
It’s perfect for blues, rockabilly, and classic rock styles, lending a vintage vibe and subtle pitch modulation that’s impossible to replicate with other systems.
Its charm lies in its understated elegance and the character it brings to the instrument.

The Floyd Rose: Dive Bomb King

The Floyd Rose is the undisputed king of dive bombs and extreme pitch manipulation.
Born in the late 1970s, this locking tremolo system revolutionized guitar playing, enabling players to achieve previously impossible sounds.

Locking Design and Tuning Stability

The Floyd Rose’s brilliance lies in its locking design.
The strings are locked at both the bridge and the nut, eliminating slippage and ensuring unparalleled tuning stability.
This allows for radical pitch bending without the worry of going out of tune, making it a favorite among shredders and heavy metal guitarists.

Unleashing the Dive Bomb

The Floyd Rose’s design enables deep and controlled dives, creating those signature screaming, low-end drops.
It also allows for upward bends and flutters, opening up a wide range of expressive techniques.

Impact on Tone

The Floyd Rose tends to add brightness and sustain to a Les Paul’s tone.
The increased resonance and sustain contribute to a modern, aggressive sound suitable for high-gain genres.
However, some argue that it can slightly alter the original Les Paul’s warmth, trading it for enhanced clarity and articulation.

Vibrola (Gibson Tremolo): A Nod to History

Gibson’s own tremolo system, the Vibrola, offers a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and functionality.
Found on various Gibson models throughout the years, including some Les Pauls, the Vibrola comes in several variations.

Features and Variations

The Vibrola system has evolved over time, with versions like the Maestro Vibrola (long tailpiece) and the Lyre Vibrola offering distinct looks and feels.
The Maestro Vibrola, with its engraved Lyre cover, is particularly prized for its visual appeal and smooth action.

Sound and Playability

The Vibrola provides a gentle, warbling vibrato effect, similar to the Bigsby but with its own unique character.
It’s less aggressive than the Floyd Rose, but more expressive than a fixed bridge.
While it may not offer the same level of tuning stability as a locking tremolo, it adds a touch of vintage charm and character to the Les Paul.

Stetsbar: The Non-Invasive Wonder

The Stetsbar is a modern marvel in tremolo design, known for its non-invasive installation.
This system mounts directly to the existing bridge and tailpiece studs, requiring no permanent modifications to the guitar.

Maintaining Original Integrity

One of the Stetsbar’s biggest advantages is its ability to maintain the original guitar’s integrity.
Because it doesn’t require any routing or drilling, it preserves the instrument’s value and allows for easy removal if desired.
This makes it an attractive option for vintage or valuable Les Pauls.

Advantages of the Design

The Stetsbar offers a smooth and responsive tremolo action, allowing for subtle vibrato and more pronounced pitch bends.
Its design also minimizes the impact on sustain, which can be a concern with other tremolo systems.
It’s a versatile option that bridges the gap between vintage and modern tremolo styles, providing a unique combination of features and benefits.

Choosing the right tremolo system for your Les Paul depends on your playing style, tonal preferences, and desired level of modification. Each system brings its own unique character and capabilities, so take the time to explore your options and find the perfect fit for your musical vision.

Unleashing the Tremolo: Techniques and Playing Styles

The addition of a tremolo system to a Les Paul opens up a vast sonic landscape, transforming a familiar instrument into a vehicle for expressive pitch manipulation. It’s not just about adding a whammy bar; it’s about unlocking a new dimension of musicality, inviting exploration of unique techniques and playing styles previously unattainable on this legendary guitar.

Let’s dive into the depths of what a tremolo can do for your Les Paul playing.

Whammy Bar Techniques: A Sonic Palette

The tremolo arm, or "whammy bar," is your portal to a universe of pitch-bending possibilities. From subtle vibrato to soaring dives, the techniques are limited only by your imagination.

Experimentation is key! Start by exploring the basic movements: pushing down to lower the pitch and pulling up to raise it.

Vary the speed and intensity to create a range of effects, from gentle warbles to dramatic swells.

Beyond these basics, consider how you can manipulate the tremolo arm while simultaneously playing notes or chords. This allows you to create shifting harmonies and dynamic textures that will undoubtedly grab the listener’s attention.

Dive Bombs: The Art of Controlled Descent

The dive bomb, a signature move in rock and metal, involves rapidly dropping the pitch to its lowest possible point before returning to the original note. It’s a dramatic and attention-grabbing technique that requires precision and control.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to nailing the perfect dive bomb:

1. Grip the tremolo arm firmly.
2. Strike a note or chord.
3. Push the tremolo arm down quickly and smoothly.
4. Hold the pitch at its lowest point momentarily.
5. Release the tremolo arm gradually to return to the original pitch.

Practice this movement slowly at first, focusing on maintaining control throughout the descent and ascent.

Experiment with different levels of intensity and duration to find what works best for you.

A well-executed dive bomb can add a powerful exclamation point to your solos.

Flutter: Shimmering Sonic Textures

For a more subtle and ethereal effect, explore the "flutter" technique.

This involves rapidly and repeatedly moving the tremolo arm in small increments, creating a shimmering, vibrato-like sound.

The key is to use a light touch and avoid large pitch changes.

The flutter technique can add depth and texture to chords and melodies, creating a sense of movement and atmosphere. It’s perfect for creating dreamy soundscapes or adding a subtle edge to your rhythm playing.

String Bending and Tremolo Interplay: Expressive Fusion

The combination of string bending and tremolo techniques opens up even more possibilities for expressive playing.

Try bending a string while simultaneously using the tremolo arm to create unique and nuanced pitch variations. This allows you to add depth and character to your bends, creating a more vocal-like quality.

Experiment with different combinations of bends and tremolo movements to discover new and exciting sonic textures.

For example, you could bend a string up a whole step and then use the tremolo arm to add a subtle vibrato, or you could bend a string down and simultaneously push the tremolo arm down to create a dissonant, unsettling effect.

The possibilities are endless! This combination of techniques can take your lead playing to a whole new level.

By mastering these techniques and exploring the creative potential of the tremolo system, you can unlock a new dimension of expression in your Les Paul playing. So, grab your whammy bar and start experimenting! The only limit is your imagination.

Navigating the Challenges: Considerations for Tremolo Les Pauls

The addition of a tremolo system to a Les Paul opens up a vast sonic landscape, transforming a familiar instrument into a vehicle for expressive pitch manipulation. It’s not just about adding a whammy bar; it’s about unlocking a new dimension of musicality, inviting exploration of unique techniques. However, this sonic expansion doesn’t come without its own set of potential hurdles. Successfully integrating a tremolo requires careful consideration of factors like intonation, tuning stability, and sustain. Let’s dive into these challenges and explore how to overcome them.

The Intonation Equation

Intonation, that elusive state of perfect pitch across the fretboard, can be significantly affected by a tremolo system. The act of bending notes with the tremolo arm changes string tension, potentially throwing off the carefully calibrated distances set at the bridge.

This is especially true for floating tremolo systems like the Floyd Rose, where even slight movements can alter the overall string tension and necessitate precise adjustments.

Maintaining Intonation Precision

The key to maintaining accurate intonation on a Les Paul with a tremolo lies in meticulous setup.

This begins with ensuring the bridge is properly positioned and the saddles are adjusted for each string.
A quality strobe tuner is invaluable for this process, allowing for precise adjustments to be made while the tremolo system is at rest and in use.
Consider the string gauge you’re using, as lighter strings may be more susceptible to intonation issues with a tremolo system.

Addressing Tuning Instability

Tuning instability is perhaps the most common complaint associated with tremolo systems. The constant stretching and release of strings during tremolo use can lead to strings slipping at the nut or bridge, resulting in frustratingly out-of-tune playing.

This is often amplified on Les Pauls due to the headstock angle.

Tuning Stability: A Rock-Solid Approach

To combat tuning woes, focus on these critical areas:

• Nut Perfection: A poorly cut or worn nut can be a major source of tuning problems. Ensure the nut slots are properly sized and lubricated with graphite or a specialized nut lubricant. This allows the strings to slide smoothly through the nut without binding. Consider a roller nut for reduced friction.
• String Winding Wisdom: The way you wind your strings onto the tuning posts can also impact tuning stability. Use a locking stringing method to prevent slippage. This involves wrapping the string around the post several times, locking it in place before tuning to pitch.

• Bridge Integrity: Make sure the bridge is stable and secure. If you have a tune-o-matic bridge, ensure the saddles are not moving excessively.

  Consider upgrading to a locking bridge for enhanced stability.

• String Stretch: New strings are notorious for stretching and settling, leading to frequent retuning. Thoroughly stretch your strings before playing by manually bending them at various points along the fretboard. This helps accelerate the settling process and improves tuning stability over time.

Sustain: The Long Game

One of the most cherished characteristics of a Les Paul is its rich sustain. However, adding a tremolo system can potentially impact sustain, particularly with floating systems that have less direct contact with the guitar’s body.

The introduction of springs and moving parts can absorb some of the string’s vibrations, reducing the overall length of the note.

Maximizing Sustain Potential

Don’t fret! (Pun intended.) There are ways to mitigate this potential loss of sustain.

• Solid Contact: Aim for tremolo systems that maintain good contact with the guitar’s body. Systems like the Bigsby, which are mounted directly to the top of the guitar, tend to have less impact on sustain than floating systems.
• High-Quality Components: Investing in a high-quality tremolo system with well-machined parts can also improve sustain. Cheaper systems may use inferior materials that dampen vibrations.
• Body Resonance: Consider the natural resonance of your Les Paul. A guitar with a lively, resonant body will be less susceptible to sustain loss from a tremolo system than a guitar with a more dampened sound.
• Experiment with Springs: For tremolo systems that use springs, experiment with different spring tensions and configurations. Sometimes, simply adjusting the spring tension can improve sustain.

By addressing these challenges head-on with careful setup, thoughtful component selection, and a little bit of experimentation, you can unlock the full potential of a tremolo-equipped Les Paul without sacrificing the instrument’s inherent tonal qualities.

Les Pauls with Tremolos: Examples and Inspirations

Navigating the Challenges: Considerations for Tremolo Les Pauls
The addition of a tremolo system to a Les Paul opens up a vast sonic landscape, transforming a familiar instrument into a vehicle for expressive pitch manipulation. It’s not just about adding a whammy bar; it’s about unlocking a new dimension of musicality, inviting exploration of unique sounds and techniques. Let’s dive into some inspiring examples that showcase the diverse ways tremolos have been integrated into this iconic guitar.

Factory-Made Tremolo Les Pauls: A Glimpse into Innovation

Sometimes, the best way to see what’s possible is to look at factory models. These offer a glimpse into how manufacturers envisioned tremolo integration.

The Les Paul BFG with Vibrato Tailpiece

The Les Paul BFG (Barely Finished Guitar) with a vibrato tailpiece is a prime example of a factory-made Les Paul that dared to be different. This model, with its raw, stripped-down aesthetic, challenged the traditional image of the Les Paul. It wasn’t about pristine finishes; it was about raw power and sonic experimentation.

The inclusion of a vibrato tailpiece added a new dimension to the BFG’s character. While perhaps not the most sophisticated tremolo system, it provided a subtle shimmer and wobble. Its raw design aesthetic perfectly complemented the BFG’s unconventional spirit, offering a unique playing experience that stood apart from the typical Les Paul.

The Iconic Pairing: Les Paul with Bigsby

The Les Paul and Bigsby combination is nothing short of legendary. It’s a marriage of classic design and vintage vibe, resulting in an instrument that’s both aesthetically pleasing and sonically versatile.

A Marriage of Tone and Aesthetics

The Bigsby tremolo adds a touch of elegance to the Les Paul’s iconic silhouette. Its sweeping curves and chrome finish complement the guitar’s classic lines, creating a visually stunning instrument.

Beyond aesthetics, the Bigsby brings its unique tonal character to the Les Paul. It’s known for its smooth, subtle vibrato, adding a shimmering warmth to chords and lead lines. It’s less about dramatic dive bombs and more about adding a touch of vintage class and character. This combination evokes a sense of rock ‘n’ roll history.

Custom Shop Tremolo Les Pauls: The Pinnacle of Craftsmanship

Gibson’s Custom Shop offers a glimpse into the possibilities of tremolo-equipped Les Pauls. These high-end instruments often feature meticulously crafted tremolo systems.

When Quality Meets Innovation

These guitars are often built to order. It is an opportunity for players to get incredibly specialized in their requests. From exotic tonewoods to hand-wound pickups, no detail is overlooked.

The tremolo systems on these Custom Shop Les Pauls are typically chosen for their performance and reliability. Whether it’s a meticulously installed Bigsby or a modern Floyd Rose, the tremolo is integrated seamlessly into the guitar’s design.

A Symphony of Sound

The combination of premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and high-quality tremolo systems results in an instrument that’s both visually stunning and sonically exceptional. Custom Shop models allow for a marriage of classic Les Paul tone with modern tremolo capabilities.

Aftermarket Modified Les Pauls: Unleashing Creativity

This is where things get really interesting! Aftermarket modifications represent the ultimate expression of individuality, reflecting the unique tastes and preferences of their owners.

Breaking the Mold

From subtle Bigsby additions to full-blown Floyd Rose installations, these modifications push the boundaries of what’s possible with a Les Paul. This is about going beyond factory options and creating something truly unique.

These modified Les Pauls often tell a story. They showcase the creativity and ingenuity of guitar techs and luthiers. The modifications often involve extensive routing, wiring, and setup work.

The Power of Personalization

Ultimately, aftermarket modifications are about personalizing an instrument to perfectly match a player’s needs and preferences. Each modified Les Paul is a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic guitar, and testament to the possibilities of sonic exploration. They also showcase the power of individual expression.

So, whether you’re chasing those subtle warbles or dive-bombing into sonic oblivion, exploring a Les Paul with tremolo bar can open up a whole new world of expression. Experiment with different models, bridge types, and techniques, and most importantly, have fun finding your own unique sound!