BM-IS-AV4 |Irving Sloane machine heads for double bass

EAN13 -39461 8719147394614
article number: BM-IS-AV4
product id: 39461

machine heads for double bass, 50:1 gear ration, 4 singles, aluminum core, Venetian style
The Irving Sloane machine heads have some very specific qualities unique to them as for instance:
They are not tapered so easier to mount to the instrument
They are smooth and well polished so no need to carve the cheeks of the pegbox
the flat gear is in brass and bronze, while the worm gear is in stainless steel. The roller (inside the peg box) is in aluminum for a lighter weight
incredible tuning comfort thanks to flat gear being 50:1 gear ratio (instead of typical 20:1), and adjustable tuning resistance
possible simple handles replacement (four available models) while keeping flat gear and worm gear, thanks to a simple nut/washer presence


Irving Sloane (1925–1998) was a guitar maker as well as the author of world famous books on guitar making. Above all, he was a luthier's luthier. He not only built and repaired guitars but also designed some of the best luthier tools ever created. His finger and palm planes, bridge clamp, fret rule, bending iron, thickness caliper, sound hole/purfling cutter, crack repair knife, and splint shaping jig are trade classics used in the world's best repair shops. Irving always combined technical and artistic talents to produce tools that worked as well as they looked.

In 1987 Irving patented a new design for classical guitar tuning machines, to eliminate gear backlash. He designed the machines to look better and work better than any others. Soon afterwards he utilized his wealth of knowledge and redesigned these patented machines for the string bass. The central aspect of this patent is the built-in handle tensioning system. The system is a simple nut and washer assembly at the base of the handle that not only allows for variable "feel" while tuning but also for quick and inexpensive handle replacement. We at David Gage String Instruments are proud to be the sole licensee and distributor of the Irving Sloane Tuning Machines for String Bass.

Among bass players and luthiers, the Irving Sloane Bass Machines have quickly become the finest.


Gary Peacock Bassist says:
"It is the first time I have literally been able to have this instrument in tune. This degree of precision can only enhance one's performance"

Thomas Martin BassistLuthier says:
"As both a musician and a luthier I appreciate the precision and beauty of the Sloane Tuners"

Ron Carter Bassist says:
"These machines are the finest I have ever seen!! Their tuning ease and accuracy are great!"




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