Classical Guitar Tuners

In addition to being an instrument enthusiast and hobby guitar player, Sheller worked as mechanical engineer for many years, and founded his own company in 1981. They built gear wheels, precision mechanics, and designed complete gear units. The starting point and inspiration for the development of his tuning machines were the old Baker and Landstorfer tuners.

Rubner is basically the German equivalent of Gotoh. What I like most about Rubner tuning machines is the quality of the plate design. I haven't used them on one of my own guitars, but I did once repair a guitar that had a set installed. That particular set seemed to have a roller that was slightly misaligned with the guitar's tuner holes because one of the Der Jung machines I had around fit easily into the roller holes on the headstock. Other than that one bad experience, I was impressed with the look and craftsmanship. I will probably give them another try one day.

These tuners were designed by luthier Irving Sloane and the manufacturing is now done by Waverly. The only place I know to purchase these in the US is through the Stewart McDonald link given. I know some great builders like Greg Byers that use these regularly and I fit some on a guitar as a part of a restoration job. I am thoroughly impressed by the quality. At around $300, They are the same price point as the Gilbert tuning machines and deliver a bit more traditional of a look.

Nicolo Alessi combines a degree in classical guitar with 30 years of experience in industrial design to create one of the most competitve classical guitar tuners on the market. They have some of the finest engravings of any machines available. I tried to start a custom order with him in 2014 to create the machines for the maple guitar - Guitar No. 30 - Unfortunately, communication proved to be very difficult.