Tips on Tuning With the Schaller Ukulele Tuners
Developed by Germany's Schaller Electronic for Kamaka Ukulele of Hawaii in 1974, the Schaller ukulele tuning system was designed by the well-known guitar part company to solve the common problem of unreliable ukulele tuners. Building on the standard friction-peg design, Schaller integrated a built-in thumbscrew and spring, allowing the tuning post to lock into place and stabilize tuning. Although the Schaller tuner is accurate and robustly engineered, follow proper basic tuning procedures to get the most out of this quality ukulele tuning peg.
String Locking and Stretching
Nylon ukulele strings are securely locked onto the bridge and tuning gear by some form of knot. Knot types vary and are largely dictated by personal preference and experience, but most uke players find that a standard double figure-eight knot at the bridge, along with a double loop in and out of the tuning post-hole, is sufficient. Nylon strings require extensive stretching time before they stabilize, which may take a day or more at standard ukulele tunings. Tug gently on new strings while you tune them and repeat the process several times to reduce break-in time.
Post Windings
Each ukulele string requires three or four wraps around the tuning key post when you install it. Wraps secure the string and aid in accurate tuning. An easy and effective method is to wind the string around the tuning post, then stick the end into the post-hole and form the double loop knot. Start winding from the bottom of the post, spiral toward the top in a neat fashion, and end right below the tuning post-hole.
Using the Schaller Tuning Peg
Loosen the knurled thumb-screw until you can easily turn the tuning peg with some tension remaining. When the string is brought to pitch, tighten the thumbscrew slightly, check the pitch, then tighten the thumbscrew fully. Finger-tightening is all that is needed; the use of tools is likely to damage the tuner. A little experience will help determine the amount of loosening and readjusting you have to do with the thumbscrew and tuning key. Generally, firm pressure works best. Loosening the screw too much will cause the tuning key to slip.
Tuning Up to Pitch
As with any tuning peg, aim to tune the string slightly below the target note, then tune up to the desired note. This technique assures equalization of excess string tension caused by a note tuned too high, and helps prevent string breakage.
Lubrication
The housing of a Schaller ukulele tuning peg is a sealed unit, meaning that its internal parts are not exposed to air and moisture. Still, they may require oiling if they begin to feel stiff, or if they make a creaking noise when you turn them. You can remove the internal post by unscrewing the thumbscrew fully, which you may do with a small screwdriver. Apply a small amount of household or hobbyist's light oil to the shaft, then reassemble. Remember to tighten the thumbscrew only with your fingers.
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