The synchronized tremolo system, often just called a “synchronized trem” or “Strat tremolo,” is what you find on classic Fender Stratocasters and many other similar style guitars. It’s all about giving you that cool vibrato effect, where you can bend the pitch of notes or chords.
- How It Works: This system uses a bridge that’s connected to a whammy bar (or vibrato arm). When you push or pull the bar, it changes the tension of the strings, which alters the pitch. It’s synchronized because the bridge moves in tandem with the strings, and if it is set up right will return to pitch after its usage.
- Design: The original Fender bridge system had six points of contact and has been revised over time with two pivot points, one at each end, which allows it to rock back and forth. This design helps maintain tuning stability compared to earlier tremolo systems, though it still needs some care to keep it in tune. There are also many aftermarket versions such as the VegaTrem VT1 that I prefer which uses two different pieces acting as a fulcrum.
- Tuning Stability: The synchronized tremolo works best with a proper setup with properly cut nut slots for string gauge, setting the correct spring tension in the back of the guitar, and sometimes locking the nut or using locking tuners to help prevent slippage.
- Vibrato Techniques: It’s perfect for subtle vibrato effects, dive bombs, or even the kind of smooth pitch transitions that I used in recording this ringtone. You can do everything from gentle warbles to dramatic pitch changes.
- Maintenance: Keeping a synchronized tremolo in good shape is fairly simple. Just keep the same gauge of strings once it has been properly set up. If a different gauge of strings is used the guitar will need a new set up to be adjusted again. Additionally, the system needs occasional lubrication of pivot points and nut slots for smooth operation.
- Customization: Many players customize their Strat’s tremolo. Some might block it to keep it stable for certain playing styles, while others might opt for other aftermarket versions like the Floyd Rose Tremolo or VegaTrem, which can offer different feel and action compared to the original Fender design.
This system isn’t just about functionality; it’s part of what makes a tremolo bridge equipped guitar sound so unique. It’s iconic for its sound manipulation capabilities, giving guitarists the freedom to express themselves in so many different and interesting ways. Whether it’s a subtle vibrato, dive bomb, or a whammy bar flutter the synchronized tremolo is the piece of technology on a guitar that gives you these sounds.