The difference between open and closed tuning machines is the housing. On open tuners, the gear and the worm shaft are exposed. On closed tuners, they sit inside a sealed cover. Open tuners are lighter and have a vintage look. Closed tuners are better protected against dust and need hardly any maintenance. For stable tuning, the quality of the tuner matters more than the type.
What are open and closed tuning machines?
Tuning machines are crucial parts of a guitar. They keep the strings at the right pitch. There are two main types: open and closed. As the name suggests, open tuning machines have a visible design in which the gears and the shaft of the tuner are exposed.
This type of tuner has a traditional look and is often used on acoustic guitars and some electric models. The open construction lets you see how the tuner works, which some players see as an aesthetic plus. Closed tuning machines, on the other hand, are fully enclosed, which gives them a sleeker, more modern look.
These tuners are often found on electric guitars and offer a few practical benefits. The closed design protects the internal parts from dust and dirt, which can extend the life of the tuner. Whether a tuner holds its pitch well depends mostly on its quality and its gear ratio, not on whether it is open or closed.
Summary
- On open tuning machines, the gear and worm shaft are exposed. On closed tuning machines, they sit in a sealed housing.
- Advantages of open tuning machines include lower weight, a vintage look, and parts you can see and clean.
- Advantages of closed tuning machines include better protection against dust and dirt, low maintenance, and a more modern look.
- Disadvantages of open tuning machines include a greater chance of dirt and wear on the exposed gears.
- Disadvantages of closed tuning machines include higher weight and the fact that you usually replace a faulty tuner as a whole.
Advantages of open tuning machines
Open tuning machines have several advantages that make them appealing to certain guitarists. One of the most important is the simplicity of the design. Because the parts are visible, players can spot and fix problems more easily.
This can be especially handy for beginners who don’t have much experience maintaining their instrument yet. Easy access to the tuner also makes it possible to make quick adjustments, which can be useful during rehearsals or gigs. Open tuning machines also often have a classic look that appeals to many players.
The traditional look of open tuners can add to the overall style of an acoustic guitar, making it more attractive to both players and audience. They can also be lighter than their closed counterparts, which reduces the weight of the guitar and makes it more comfortable to play.
Advantages of closed tuning machines
Closed tuning machines have their own unique advantages that make them popular with guitarists. One of the most notable is that they need little maintenance. Because the internal parts are fully shielded, they are less sensitive to outside influences such as moisture and dust.
That keeps the tuner running smoothly for longer, even if you often take your guitar to rehearsals and gigs. Closed tuning machines are also often sturdier and more durable than open ones. The protective design keeps dirt and other contaminants out of the tuner, which can cause wear or failures.
This makes closed tuners an excellent choice for musicians who use their instrument intensively or play in different environments. They can also give your guitar a sleeker, more modern look, which can appeal to players who care about aesthetics.
Disadvantages of open tuning machines
Although open tuning machines offer several advantages, there are also a few drawbacks to keep in mind. An important one is that they are more prone to wear and damage. Because the parts are exposed, they can more easily come into contact with dust, dirt and other elements that can affect how they work.
Over time, the tuner can become stiffer or develop play. Maintaining open tuning machines can also take more time and effort. You need to clean the gears now and then and lubricate them lightly, which is usually not necessary with closed tuners.
A knock against the headstock is also more likely to damage an exposed gear. For some guitarists, this is a reason to choose closed tuners instead of open ones.
Disadvantages of closed tuning machines
Closed tuning machines have their drawbacks too. One of the biggest is that they are often heavier than open tuners. This extra weight can affect playing comfort, especially during long sessions or gigs.
For musicians who value a light guitar, this can be an important consideration. It can also be harder to diagnose and fix problems with closed tuning machines. Because the internal parts are not visible, you may have to spend more time figuring out what is wrong before you can fix it.
This can be frustrating for guitarists who are used to the simpler maintenance of open tuners. Closed tuners can also sometimes cost more to buy, which can matter for players on a limited budget.
Which tuning machine is best for you?
The choice between open and closed tuning machines depends heavily on your personal preferences and playing style. If you are a beginner or someone who likes to maintain their own instrument, open tuning machines can be a good choice because of their simplicity and accessibility. You can easily see how everything works and fix problems quickly without much technical knowledge. Especially as a beginner, you benefit from tuners that run smoothly, because a well-tuned guitar makes practicing a lot more enjoyable.
On the other hand, if you are an experienced musician who performs or records regularly, closed tuning machines may suit you better. Their tuning stability and durable design make them ideal for intensive use. They also offer a more modern look that fits many electric guitars well.
It is important to consider your own playing style and needs when making this choice. Whichever tuners you choose, a tuner lets you tune the guitar quickly and accurately afterward.
Maintaining open and closed tuning machines
Maintaining both open and closed tuning machines is essential to keep your guitar performing at its best. For open tuning machines, it is important to check regularly for dirt and dust that can build up around the gears and shafts. A soft brush or a cloth can help remove these contaminants. While you are cleaning, do the fretboard and frets as well.
It is also wise to put a drop of oil on the moving parts now and then to reduce friction and prevent wear. Maintenance for closed tuning machines is a bit different, but no less important. Many closed tuners are lubricated at the factory, so oil is not needed there. Still, they deserve a little attention now and then.
It is a good idea to tighten the screws once in a while and check for signs of wear or damage. If you notice that a tuner is not working properly, it is important to deal with it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Cold months call for extra care; see the tips for guitar maintenance in winter.
Replacing tuning machines: check the size
If you want to switch from open to closed tuners, or the other way around, first look at the holes in your guitar’s headstock. Vintage-style open tuners are usually held in place by a pressed-in bushing in a smaller hole, while closed tuners often need a larger hole with a nut. The position of the small screw on the back also differs by brand. So measure the diameter of the holes and the distance between the screw holes before you order, or choose a replacement that is sold as a direct fit for your model. If the holes need to be enlarged, have a guitar builder do it, for example during a setup.
Classical guitars are a special case. On those, three tuners share one plate, and the nylon strings run over rollers in a slotted headstock. You replace those with the same type of plate tuner with the same distance between the rollers.
Tips for choosing the right tuning machines
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right tuning machines for your guitar. First, think about your playing style and how often you use your guitar. If you perform regularly or travel a lot with your instrument, closed tuners may be a better choice because of their stability and durability.
You also need to consider the type of guitar you have or want to buy. Some guitars are designed with specific tuners in mind, so it can be useful to get advice from a professional or an experienced musician before you decide. Don’t forget that looks matter too; choose tuners that fit the look you want for your instrument.
Finally, it is always good to try different options before making a final choice. Visit music stores and try guitars with both open and closed tuning machines to see which one feels and sounds best to you. By following these steps, you can make the right choice for your needs as a musician.
If your guitar often goes out of tune, the tuners are far from always the cause. New strings that are still stretching, strings wound too few or too many times around the post, and big temperature swings often play a larger role. So also read how to keep your guitar from going out of tune and how to change guitar strings properly.
Frequently asked questions about open and closed tuning machines
What are open tuning machines?
Open tuning machines are tuners where the gears and other parts are visible on the back of the headstock. These tuners are often used on acoustic guitars and some electric guitars.
What are closed tuning machines?
Closed tuning machines are tuners where the gears and other parts are enclosed and not visible on the back of the headstock. These tuners are often used on electric guitars and some acoustic guitars.
What is the difference between open and closed tuning machines?
The main difference between open and closed tuning machines is the look and the way the gears and other parts are housed. Open tuning machines have a more traditional look and are often found on acoustic guitars, while closed tuning machines have a more modern look and are often used on electric guitars.
Does the type of tuning machine affect the sound of the guitar?
In general, the type of tuning machine has no direct effect on the sound of the guitar. The main job of tuners is to keep the strings at the right tension, whether they are open or closed. However, some guitarists claim that closed tuning machines are better at keeping the guitar stable in tune.
Can you replace open tuners with closed tuners?
You can, but closed tuners often need a larger hole in the headstock, and the screw holes are in a different place. So measure your headstock first or choose a type that is sold as a direct replacement. If the holes need to be reamed out, leave that to a guitar builder.
Should you lubricate tuning machines?
You can lubricate open tuners with a very small amount on the gear and worm shaft now and then. Closed tuners are usually lubricated at the factory and don’t need oil. In any case, use only a little, because excess grease attracts dirt.
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