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Post by hughesy on Aug 23, 2019 10:36:24 GMT
Currently, I only play sitting in my living room. But I have some ambitions to perform and standing seems to better for performing and singing.
Appreciate if anyone could provide thoughts or experience on straps, etc? Are strap locks necessary? I definitely don't want my guitar dropping to the ground!
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leoroberts
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Post by leoroberts on Aug 23, 2019 10:46:02 GMT
Hi, hughesy. I don’t use strap locks but I rarely perform. There are some on here who swear by them and, I guess, if you’re even vaguely worried about your guitar bouncing off stage, then they offer a lot of peace of mind for not much outlay. What guitar is it you have? (Welcome to the forum, by the way!)
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Post by scorpiodog on Aug 23, 2019 11:17:43 GMT
I always perform standing up. I find it helps with the voice (and I need all the help I can get!) As for strap locks, I have a problem with the combined strap button/jack socket type of end pin. I can never seem to get the strap to fit securely on to them. So I use these, as recommended by our very own Wild Violet. But I don't use a strap lock for totally acoustic guitars (or those with a jack socket separate from the end pin) because: a) I don't think they're needed; and, b)I can't find any that work. But then I don't tend to jump about much when I perform, and I don't swing the guitar around my neck much. Good luck in your foray into performing. It is one of the most frustrating yet satisfying things I've ever done, and I wouldn't be without it for the world!
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Post by dreadnought28 on Aug 24, 2019 0:27:35 GMT
Never used straplocks. In 50 years of performing standing up I think the strap has come off 2 or 3 times at the most. Important to ensure it’s a tight fit.
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Post by andyhowell on Aug 24, 2019 8:57:17 GMT
The good thing about living rooms is that the audience is always consistent!
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Post by hughesy on Aug 24, 2019 9:29:31 GMT
Thanks. Any recommendations on what strap to use?
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ocarolan
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Post by ocarolan on Aug 24, 2019 10:13:00 GMT
Wasn't quite sure what this thread would be about when I read the title....! I've never used straplocks of any kind and not (yet) had a strap-related mishap in 55 years. A good fit on whatever strap button is there is crucial. When combined strap button/jack sockets came in it was a puzzle at first, but a sharp craft knife solves most problems. I've had several straps made for me and had the hole puched exactly to the size I wanted, which is really helpful. What sort of strap? I always ensure there are no metal or hard plastic bits anywhere on the strap to avoid scratching the instrument. The strap (unless custom made to your desired length for a particular instrument) needs to be adjustable to get the most comfortable position. This type of strap is usually in two sections, one of which interlaces to the other through sevral slots giving adjustability without buckle, sliders etc. There are several straps that fulfil these criteria, and among the comfiest are the Levy's suede (or very soft leather)ones, though other cheaper ones are available. These have the added advantage that the unsmooth sude side doesn't slide too easily on your shoulder. 2" at least in width over your shoulder makes for comfort rather than some of the thinner designs. There are several options available if you look on eBay for suede guitar straps. Kappy hunting. Keith PS Don't forget, most people find a treble side of heel strap button more comfortable than attaching the strap to the headstock. And, yes, standing is usually best in most circumstances when playing "out" but be sure to do your "homework" standing up too.
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Post by dreadnought28 on Aug 24, 2019 10:38:09 GMT
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Post by curmudgeon on Aug 24, 2019 16:27:28 GMT
Hi, firstly, I agree - that standing gives you a definate advantage when performing.
I make my own straps which al started after I broekev my left collarbone and needed a 3" strap to spread the load.
My straps are simple - and not adjustable as I know my ideal distance between centres and the straps I make for others arc also made to their preference.
I use Schaller Straplocks on them front and just make 1/2" dia holes with key ways for the tail. These can be adjusted for ordinary endpins or Jack plus end pins - i have both.
My straps are about 4-6 m/m thick so there has never been an issue - but them I don't"swing" my guitars over my shoulder like Johnny Cash used to do.
I like to put my neck heel pin in the END of the heel which horrifies many but is actually trouble free but I have made straps for all fittings.
See ;
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Post by bleatoid on Aug 24, 2019 23:21:49 GMT
Hey hughesy I’m not in a position to offer advice from personal experience but there’s many options worked over the years - don’t rule out the originals...
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Akquarius
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Post by Akquarius on Aug 29, 2019 16:02:55 GMT
I don't know if you have them in the UK, but if you can, get yourself a beer. Prefereably in a swing top bottle, of course. Remove the rubber ring from the swing top and drag it over the end of the strap fixed to the endpin. Your guitar should be fixed absolutely safely then. The only problem that might occur is when the strap is made from really thick leather, not leaving enough room between strap and end of pin.
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Post by Onechordtrick on Aug 29, 2019 16:17:06 GMT
I don't know if you have them in the UK, but if you can, get yourself a beer. . I almost only read this far! Of course we have beer in the U.K. Best beer in the world but sound advice in any situation. Prefereably in a swing top bottle, of course. Remove the rubber ring from the swing top and drag it over the end of the strap fixed to the endpin. Your guitar should be fixed absolutely safely then. The only problem that might occur is when the strap is made from really thick leather, not leaving enough room between strap and end of pin. Grolsch bottles have this rubber ring but you my want to try several different brands to make sure
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Post by hughesy on Aug 30, 2019 9:41:25 GMT
Thanks guys. A length of string and a beer bottle rubber band it is.
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Post by Akquarius on Sept 16, 2019 19:02:03 GMT
btw, Fender offers something called Strap Blocks. Exactly the same stuff you find on some beer bottles, but probably easier to get. They are available in a packs of 4. Just in case you're having trouble to find rubber rings on beer bottles.
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