The S520EX and it’s 7-string counterpart below sports a ZR (Zero Resistance) tremlo bridge. Is this the answer for those of us who have to have a trem, but are also obsessive about being in tune?
The S7320
The ZR tremolo may be the most significant advance in locking tremolos since the first locking tremolo. Most floating tremolos use a knife-edge system, but the ZR tremolo uses a ball-bearing based system for precision and friction-free smooth action.
ZR tremolo (Zero Resistance)
The ZR tremolo with the ZPS successfully addresses the inherent drawbacks in traditional locking trem systems. Thanks to the unique ballbearing mechanism, action and feel are incredibly smooth. The Zero Point System consistently returns the tremolo to the center position (zero point). This system offers ease of tuning, tuning stability and the ability to keep playing even after a string is broken.
Ball-Bearing Pivot
Smoother than smooth. The ZR tremolo’s ball-bearing pivot system allows ultra-smooth arm control. The pivot’s precision movement virtually guarantees tuning stability. In the floating position, you can really feel the exceptional smoothness and durability of this significant advance in tremolo technology. U.S.PAT No.6710,235
Intonation Adjustment Tool
Just unscrew the built-in intonation adjustment tool from the base and screw it into the bottom of each saddle for quick adjustments. U.S.PAT No.6,867,354
Arm Torque and Height Adjustment
Arm torque is easily tightened or loosened by turning the arm-holder adjustment screw. The arm height can be adjusted by spinning the arm clockwise or counterclockwise. No matter what the setting, the arm always feels secure. U.S.PAT PENDING
ZPS (Zero Point System)
No friction points make the ZPS the smoothest Ibanez Back Stop ever. An additional outer pair of springs provides easier tuning and better tuning stability than the traditional floating tremolo \plus the other strings will remain in tune if a string breaks.
Manually Adjustable Spring System
Spring tension can be quickly set by thumb. There’s no need for a hex wrench.
Switchable To Floating Trem
One of the best ZPS features! Just remove the stop bar and the ZPS easily changes to floating trem operation.
dantheman
pictures and descriptions courtesy of www.ibanez.com.
We love this idea with the ZR Tremolo! Please give us a call to talk about some cool aircraft quality bearings for your guitar. Rock on!!
I think it’s a cool idea too! But alas I did not think of it first.
Thanks for stopping in.
D-
this guitar looks killer
I have an S520ex and let me tell you, this little black beauty rocks hard. The ZR trem is awesome, you can dive bomb like a mad man with ease and still be in perfect tune. The only drawback is the pickups (they are not so hot) although the bridge pickup has good harmonics. Still, for the price is a killer guitar, I love mine. Check my myspace to hear it in action. Great blog btw