Floyd Rose Tremolos for Left Hand Guitars: Original and Genuine
- Gaskell Guitars Australia
- Aug 5
- 34 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
The following is the ultimate guide on left handed Floyd Rose tremolos: genuine, licensed, and proprietary - past and present. Nowhere else on the internet will you find all this information in one place.
This article is in five parts:
Part 1: Original and Genuine Floyd Rose (Floyd Rose, Fernandes, Schaller, Sung il, Ping Well)
Part 2: OEM Producers (Kahler, Gotoh, Takeuchi, Ping Well)
Part 3: Proprietary Versions (Schaller, Kahler, Fernandes, Ibanez, St. Louis Music, Aria Pro II, Yamaha, ESP, Jackson-Charvel, Kaman Music Corporation)
Part 4: The Asian OEM Pool ("Korean Catalog", "Chinese Catalog")
Part 5: No-Names, Fakes, Unknowns, and Never Left Handed
Overview
Musician Floyd Rose invented his original guitar vibrato system in 1976. In 1979, he was granted U.S. Patent No. 4,171,661 "Guitar tremolo method and apparatus" for the double-locking mechanism at both the bridge and nut. The patent documents the core mechanical ideas: a locking clamp at the nut, a locking clamp at the bridge saddles on a pivoting bridge plate and block with hardened knife‑edge contacts that let the unit rock smoothly while minimising friction at the fulcrum. Those technical innovations produced dramatically improved tuning stability for heavy vibrato use.
While the tremolo allowed guitars to remain in tune during aggressive playing, retuning required loosening the locking nut, adjusting the strings, and retightening the nut—a limitation that would soon drive further innovation.
Rose personally made them in his garage and presented his product publicly at the 1981 NAMM Show. Shortly thereafter he partnered with Fernandes Electric Sound Research Group Co. Ltd. of Japan to supply further prototypes and the first production models. Fernandes used factories in Japan to manufacture the units.
At the January 1982 NAMM Show, Rose met with executives from Kramer Guitars, sparking discussions about integrating his double-locking tremolo system into Kramer’s guitar lineup for possible replacement of the German Rockinger tremolo that Kramer had been using up to this time. Kramer guitars during this time were being built by California-based company Boogie Bodies.
Further developments
Rose was introduced to Eddie Van Halen through a mutual friend and from 1982 Van Halen began using Rose's double-locking system on his guitars. Other well-known American guitarists, like Brad Gillis and Steve Lukather, also started using what was then referred to as the "Rose tremolo."
Eddie Van Halen’s feedback prompted Rose and Fernandes to redesign the unit with a vertical tailpiece, incorporating fine tuners like those found on violins and cellos. Rose filed a patent for the fine tuners on March 15, 1982.
The first prototype tremolo with fine tuners was supplied by Fernandes and was tested on several prototype Kramer guitars and some of Eddie Van Halen's guitars which he used on the "Hide Your Sheep" Van Halen tour in late 1982. It was also during this time that Eddie Van Halen signed with Kramer.
The vertical fine tuners caused some problems, so Van Halen's next suggestion was to put the tail at an angle, leading to the development of the “whale tail” design. He tested the prototypes during the latter part of the tour, and the final version was approved in early 1983. Around the same time, Floyd Rose finalized the partnership with Kramer for his tremolo systems to be exclusively used on their guitars. To support production, ESP in Japan was brought in to ghost-build bodies and necks, which were then shipped to the United States for assembly.
Kramer brings in Schaller, sidelines Fernandes
Kramer was a prolific user of Schaller GmbH hardware for its guitars and bass guitars and decided to use the German company to manufacture the new double-locking tremolo with fine tuners. Initially, local company Hansen Metalworks was employed to do an interim run of 800 units for early runs of Kramer's new 1983 lineup during the six months it took for Schaller to get ready for production. Fernandes was apparently not informed that Schaller had been brought in to replace them.
The contract between Rose and Fernandes ended sometime in 1985, leaving Schaller to produce all Floyd Rose models thereafter, with ESP eventually building not just parts but whole guitars for Kramer.
Floyd Rose filed for a further patent for Fine Tuners on February 4, 1985, for which he was awarded U.S. Patent No. 4,549,461 on October 29, 1985. On February 5, 1985, the patent applied for in 1982 for the Fine Tuners was awarded as U.S. Patent No. 4,497,236.
Licensing arrangements begin
The "locking tremolo with fine tuners" concept spread quickly throughout the Music industry which led to other parts distributors and guitar brands making their own variants. To safeguard his patent rights, Rose devised an innovative strategy to grant sub-licenses to interested manufacturers, allowing them to produce their own units or OEM units for other guitar brands that wished to utilize them. Authorized manufacturers would have to display a licensing statement on their products to validate their authenticity and to differentiate them from the genuine originals.
Rose applied for a worldwide design patent for "Fine Tuning Tremolo Bridge Unit for a Guitar" in 1989, which was awarded to him in 1992 as USD324693S. This patent covers the ornamental design of the fine‑tuner Floyd Rose bridge.
U
SD324693S
Kramer bankruptcy and Fender distribution
Following a series of poor management decisions and a costly lawsuit over unpaid royalties to Floyd Rose, Kramer collapsed into bankruptcy in 1990. In the aftermath, Floyd Rose forged a new partnership with Fender USA, which became the new exclusive distributor of all Floyd Rose products. This shift marked a pivotal moment in guitar history: while Kramer faded from the spotlight, the Floyd Rose vibrato bridge lived on, carried forward by Fender’s global reach and reputation.
This ensured continuity but left Rose with limited direct oversight of how his systems were marketed and sold. By the early 2000s, the market was increasingly flooded with counterfeit and low‑quality copies of his designs.
Floyd Rose resumes control
In 2005, distribution returned to Floyd Rose himself, restoring the brand’s independence and ensuring it remained a standalone identity rather than a Fender sub‑line. This shift allowed Rose to reclaim control over branding, quality, and innovation. Rose appointed AP International Music Supply in the United States as its U.S. distributor.
In 2023 AP International coordinated with W‑Music Distribution in Europe to expand Floyd Rose’s presence worldwide. Schaller remained the exclusive producer of Original Floyd Rose tremolos until 2005. Original Floyd Rose systems are now 100% made in the USA.
Guitar brands that adopted Floyd Rose bridge systems include Aria Pro II, B.C. Rich, Carvin, Charvel, Epiphone, ESP, EVH, Fender, Fernandes, Framus, Gaskell, Gibson, Hamer, Ibanez, Jackson, Kramer, Music Man, Peavey, Samick, Schecter, Tokai, Tom Anderson, Vester, Washburn, Westone, and Yamaha.
In addition to producing the Original Floyd Rose, Schaller supplied a licensed OEM version for various guitar brands up until the early 2000s after which original OEM production shifted fully to Korea. Rose also used Ping Well in Taiwan to produce genuine Floyd Rose systems, including the 2004 Speedloader.
OEM producers
Early OEM manufacturers of well-known licensed Floyd Rose tremolos were Takeuchi, Gotoh, Kahler, Ping Well, and Jin Ah. Some also produced proprietary systems for individual brands. OEM versions could be branded or unbranded and were also sold as aftermarket kits. Licensed units were most often stamped "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" on the base plate or tail, or if OEM-supplied for a brand, with the brand's logo on the base plate.
Takeuchi of Japan manufactured several licensed Floyd Rose tremolos as OEM units for Ibanez, Jackson, Charvel, Yamaha, Fernandes, Aria Pro II, and Washburn, among others until the late 2000s. Takeuchi's TRS-101 Original Floyd Rose variant was also sold as a boxed aftermarket kit. The TRS-101 is the most copied non-genuine OFR-style tremolo in the world.
Gotoh of Japan produced their own licensed proprietary tremolo as a direct aftermarket replacement for an Original Floyd Rose and supplied it as an OEM product to Aria Pro II, B.C Rich, Music Man, Peavey, and Fernandes from 1986. Their current product has remained largely unchanged since 1996 and is a popular choice for custom builders and individuals wanting to upgrade.
Kahler made a licensed Original Floyd Rose variant as well as two proprietary models that combined Floyd Rose and Kahler patents. All three were supplied as OEM units for such brands as Carvin, Fender Japan, and B.C. Rich. Kahler left the industry in the early 1990s but returned in 2005 and is now most famous for its own guitar bridges and tremolos. They most recently reintroduced fulcrum-based tremolos with engineering upgrades in 2024.
Ping Well in Taiwan supplemented Schaller production of genuine Floyd Rose systems for a time and also manufactured OEM and proprietary systems for guitar brands such as Fender, Jackson, Peavey, and Fernandes. Rose and Ping Well severed ties in the mid 2010s.
Jin Ah was a Korean company that produced OEM licensed Floyd Rose and proprietary systems for many guitar brands that had Korean production lines in the 1980s and 1990s. Korean OEMs Samick, Cort, and World Musical Instrument Co. built guitars for Fernandes, B.C. Rich, Aria Pro II, Charvette by Charvel, Washburn, Westone, Marlin, Hohner, Hondo, Vester, Epiphone, Vantage, and Dean Guitars using Jin Ah products.
Aria, ESP, Fernandes, Ibanez, Jackson, St. Louis Music (Westone), Tokai, and Yamaha, went on to produce proprietary versions of Floyd Rose-style systems for their own guitar brands. Often, they used hardware from the same factories with just different branding for the same parts.
Aria Pro II used several unique tremolos, such as the "ACT-3" which was made initially by Gotoh in Japan and then by Jin Ah of Korea after Japanese production ended in 1987. This same unit was also used by Washburn.
ESP utilized an early Japanese-made version of the double-locking Floyd Rose tremolo for their own guitars, stamped as the "Magician" and then developed their own licensed "ESP Synclear Tremolo" with proprietary modifications during the 1980s and 1990s.
Fernandes took the original Floyd Rose units they had supplied to Floyd Rose and Kramer in the United States and further developed them into their own proprietary "Head Crasher," then "FRT" Tremolo Systems until 1997. Production of the FRT range shifted to Korea after a major redesign in 1988. Fernandes consistently produced left handed guitars until the mid 2000s.
Ibanez developed its own proprietary systems during the 1980s using Gotoh and Takeuchi to manufacture the first models and then went on to further engineer and develop their own systems some of which continue to be used unchanged to this day. Modern Ibanez tremolo systems are made in China.
Jackson had OEM manufacturer Ping Well of Taiwan produce a proprietary tremolo bridge with horizontal fine tuners and saddle caps exclusively for its Japan-market Charvel and Jackson guitars in the late 1980s, including left handed models. This was the infamous Jackson "JT6."
Tokai produced a range of tremolo systems using Floyd Rose technologies as the "Ayers Rocker" series during the 1980s. These were exclusive to Tokai.
Westone is famous for its proprietary "Bendmaster" tremolos, which were developed in-house when Westone guitars were being built in Japan by Matsumoku. The original Bendmaster was later manufactured by Jin Ah in Korea and released as a general OEM product, which was adopted by multiple guitar brands such as Aria Pro II, B.C. Rich, Charvel, Epiphone, Hondo, Marlin, Samick, Series-10, and Vantage.
Yamaha produced their licensed and proprietary "Rocking Magic" series of tremolos until the early 2000s. These units featured unique and innovative intonation adjustment, culminating in the "Yamaha Finger Clamp Tremolo System" in 2007.
U.S. Patent 4,497,236 expired on 5 February 2002 and US Patent 4,549,461 expired on 15 March, 2002, after which licensing was no longer necessary. This led to a slew of Asian manufacturers making copies of varying quality.
The end of licensing arrangements
In the early days of mass manufacturing in China, factories sourced musical instrument hardware from established Korean OEM suppliers via a shared manufacturing pool that continues to this day. These were legitimate products manufactured under Floyd Rose patents used by multiple guitar brands with entry and intermediate level production lines.
As China built its own domestic production capabilities in the late 2000s, including its own OEM pool, and with all the original patents having expired, a flood of inexpensive counterfeit and low-quality copies emerged.
To compete directly with these knockoffs, Floyd Rose introduced the affordable "Floyd Rose Special" around 2008. Manufactured in South Korea like the high-quality OEM 1000 Series (which uses premium steel components matching the German-made Original), the Special employs cost-effective zinc alloy parts while delivering the reliable performance expected from an authentic Floyd Rose product. The Floyd Rose Special effectively put an end to any further need OEM manufacturing.
The following information is the definitive guide on Floyd Rose tremolos (and variants) for left-handed guitars.
I will get this out of the way first: I am a big fan of Floyd Rose tremolos. My first real left-handed guitar Kramer Striker which I bought new in 1987. As a builder, I am very familiar with each of the OFR, Schaller and Gotoh tremolos. I also like the modern Ibanez systems and I am lucky to now own a 1985 Fernandes FST-65 with string-through Head Crasher tremolo, and a 1989 Fernandes FR-65 with the legendary FRT-4. I also like Kahler tremolos too.
If you are keen on upgrading your lefty guitar with a better-quality tremolo or replacing the one you have, then here are your choices:
Floyd Rose Original Tremolo System
(Made in Germany, 1983 - 2025)
Status: Phased out
Rose's original tremolo system did not have fine tuners.
The fine tuners were the idea of Eddie Van Halen, whose feedback contributed much to Rose's further developments of the system. Van Halen drew on his early experience playing cello and violin, instruments with finger-adjustable fine tuners, and suggested to Rose: “Put some fine-tuners on it … I meant … finger tuners!” (Van Halen, MusicRadar, 2014). In a 2014 “Ask Eddie” Q&A on the official EVH Gear blog, he explained that the original locking nut design caused significant difficulties during live performance: strings would stretch or go out of tune, and guitarists had to unclamp the nut, retune, and re-clamp it mid-performance. He added, “My role in the design … was adding the fine tuners to the bridge … Adding the fine tuners to the bridge alleviated all these problems. Basically, I made it work” (Van Halen, EVH Gear Blog, 2014).
The first prototype of the final design, therefore, had a vertical bend in the base plate for fine tuners. Rose gave prototypes to prominent artists for testing, including Eddie Van Halen, Brad Gillis, Steve Lukather, and K.K. Downing.
After trialing the prototype on the 1982 Van Halen "Hide Your Sheep" tour, Van Halen commented that the location of the new fine tuners got in the way of his playing. His feedback led to a further modification of the baseplate by lengthening and bending the "tail" back at an angle of about 25° to get the fine tuners further back. Van Halen used the angled-tail prototypes during the last few months of the tour in late 1982. The final design was finalized in early 1983. At the same time, Kramer had also struck a deal with Schaller to produce Floyd Rose systems for the U.S. and International markets, despite Fernandes having the active contract and having done all the preliminary work.
While Schaller in Germany prepared for full-scale manufacturing, Hansen Metalworks in the United States produced an interim run of 800 units for Kramer's new 1983 lineup. The new double-locking tremolo with fine tuners appeared in the 1983 catalog, initially on the Pacer, Voyager, and Vanguard models, and later that year on the new Baretta. The Kramer Focus Series was also launched in 1983, which was fully made in Japan by ESP.
In the USA, both the non-fine-tuner tremolo, previously supplied by Fernandes, and the new tremolo with fine tuners made in Germany were marketed as the "Floyd Rose Tremolo System."
Fernandes' contract with Floyd Rose ended sometime in 1985 and Schaller became sole manufacturer of genuine Floyd Rose products thereafter. All products were made in Germany. They were originally etched with "Floyd Rose" on the base plate until about 1987 after which they were embossed with "Floyd Rose Original."
The Japan-only Kramer JK range, launched in 1986 also utilized the German fine-tuner Floyd Rose tremolo. In the 1986 Kramer Japan catalog it stated:
クレイマー・ギターには、全てフロイド・ローズ氏が自らプロデュースした "FLOYD ROSE TREMOLO SYSTEM" がマウントされています。 | All Kramer guitars are mounted with the 'FLOYD ROSE TREMOLO SYSTEM,' personally produced by Mr. Floyd Rose." |
By 1987, Kramer was using ESP exclusively for manufacturing its necks and bodies across the American Series and Signature lines, with final assembly still carried out in the United States. The Focus Series and JK Series continued to be fully manufactured in Japan.
Left-handed availability
Kramer did make left hand versions of their U.S-assembled Pacer, Baretta, and "E.E." Pro I Series (1987-1988), and Japanese-made Focus 1000 Series. I do not believe the JK Series were offered left-handed. Left handed examples from this era include this white 1983 Pacer Deluxe, this white 1984 Baretta, this pink 1985 Baretta, this pink 1985 Pacer, this blue 1986 Focus 3000 (pictured below), and this black 1986/1987 Focus 1000.
Floyd Rose today
The modern double-locking Original Floyd Rose tremolo is designated the 100-Series and is almost unchanged from the original production model from 1983. The left handed product code is FRT-100L.
The modern unit is made of high-quality hardened steel and the sustain block is made of nickel-plated brass. Saddles are CNC-machined hardened steel. A minor difference between the original Kramer-era 100-Series units and the modern 100-Series units is that the modern baseplate is a full 1mm thinner than the originals.
The German-made tremolo was the flagship Original Floyd Rose model for over 40 years, however since 2025, Original Floyd Rose tremolos are fully manufactured in the United States.
Lefty versions used to be available in chrome, satin chrome, black, gold, black nickel, vintage copper, and satin pearl, but as of late 2025, black, black nickel, and vintage copper have so far been deleted as the Schaller versions become phased out.
Floyd Rose USA Series Original Tremolo
(Made in USA, 2025 - present)
Status: Current
From 2025, Floyd Rose production has been brought back to the United States at their new state-of-the-art CNC and 3D printing facility in North Carolina. This was first announced at the March 2025 NAMM show. By transitioning to in-house production, Floyd Rose gains direct oversight of every aspect of the manufacturing process, making it easier to implement design updates, fine-tune quality control, and ensure highest production standards. In a 2025 statement President Andrew Papiccio said:
“Our process ensures tighter specifications and enhanced quality. By keeping production local, Floyd Rose maintains rigorous standards and supports American craftsmanship."
The 100-Series has always been Floyd Rose's flagship model and the new USA-made unit is now the "USA Series Original Tremolo." It is made of high-quality hardened steel and the sustain block is made of nickel-plated brass. Saddles are precision CNC manufactured and come in multiple radius options, eliminating the need for individual saddle shims. Alongside the traditional 12” radius, Floyd Rose Original Saddles are now available in 10”, 14”, 16”, and 17” radii. Locking nuts are 3D printed. The base is stamped "Floyd Rose Original" at the top.
NOTE: It is not clear if, or when, lefty versions of the USA Series are being produced. According to the Floyd Rose website, it looks like leftover stock of German products are still being sold off.
Floyd Rose Original Non-Fine-Tuner Tremolo
(1983 - 1986, 2015 - present)
Status: Current
Floyd Rose's original tremolo system did not have fine tuners. It locked at the saddles and at the nut. Once it was double-locked, the guitar could not be retuned without loosening the locking nut at the neck, retuning, and then retightening the nut.
It was initially built by Rose himself then Fernandes of Japan from late 1981. Sometimes Rose used a mix of USA and Japanese parts for his own builds. The initial model number, according to Fernandes, was FRT-1. After a quick redesign of the saddles, it became the FRT-3, which was sold from the second half of 1982. The ones made by Floyd personally have a sticker on the block that says "ROSE Tremolo Pat # 4,171,661 USA."
The FRT-3 was the first production model to be engraved with "Floyd Rose" branding on the upper base plate. In the USA it was marketed officially as the "Floyd Rose Tremolo System."
After partnering with Kramer in 1983, Kramer brought in Schaller to take over manufacturing from Fernandes, and from late 1983 Schaller produced both the FRT-3 non-fine-tuner tremolo and new FRT-5 fine-tuner tremolo (today's 100 Series) thereafter. The German FRT-3 non-fine-tuner tremolo has "Floyd Rose" etched on the base plate with "MADE IN GERMANY" on the underside, next to the tremolo arm hole. Fernandes continued to produce the FRT-3 in Japan but only for the Japanese domestic market. (See following.)
The German FRT-3 was used on the Kramer Striker Series from 1983 until 1986. There were left handed models, such as this 1985 left handed Striker 300ST. The non-fine tuner tremolo was discontinued in 1986.
After an absence of 25 years, Floyd Rose re-released this tremolo in 2015 following revived interest in it, particularly because of guitarists Guthrie Govan, Brad Gillis, and Yngwie Malmsteen. Today it is called the "non fine tuner" tremolo. The reissued model was made by Schaller and was not available left-handed. I mention this here in the hope that, with Floyd Rose's operations now based in the USA, they will be able to produce a left-handed version as well. I'm waiting to hear back from AP International about this.
Floyd Rose II single-locking
(1986-1987)
Status: Obsolete
In 1986, Floyd Rose released the Floyd Rose II tremolo, which was made of cast iron. It only locks at the neck. This was a single locking tremolo bridge with fine tuners in which the ball ends of the strings do not need to be cut off. Instead, it has horizontal square tubes that screw into the saddle assemblies. The strings are fed through the tubes and come out through the saddles. The ball ends lodge at the entry of the tubes. This was a genuine Floyd Rose product, made by Schaller in Germany for Kramer guitars made in Korea. It is very similar to the Fernandes Head Crasher FRT-6, which Fernandes released a year earlier.
It was cast with "Floyd Rose II" at the top of the base plate and "Made In Germany by Schaller" at the bottom of the base plate. It had a very rough "orange peel" finish.
The Floyd Rose II was used on the 1986 - 1987 Kramer Striker Series made in Korea, while U.S-assembled Kramers and Japanese Focus Series continued to be built with the Original Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo. The Striker Series were available in left hand, such as this 1986 left-handed Kramer Striker 600ST.
Floyd Rose II double-locking
(1988 - 2000)
Status: Obsolete
From 1988, the Floyd Rose II name was reapplied to a cast-iron version of the double-locking Original Floyd Rose, for import models. This unit was also made by Schaller in Germany. The knife edges have replaceable inserts. It had "Floyd Rose II" cast into the top of the base plate. As with the single-locking version, it has a very rough "orange peel" finish. This was a genuine Floyd Rose product.
The double-locking Floyd Rose II first appeared on the 1988-1989 Kramer Striker 100-Series made in Korea. The Striker Series continued to be available in left hand. Examples include this white left-handed Kramer Striker ST100, this silver-grey left-handed Kramer Striker ST605, and this white 1988 left-handed Kramer Striker ST600.
The double-locking Floyd Rose II was also used on the 1989, Japan-only, ESP Kramer TK Series which do not appear to have been available in left hand.
1989 was the last year of original Kramer guitars as the company went bankrupt in 1990. The Original Floyd Rose, Low-Profile Floyd Rose Pro (never available left-handed) and the Floyd Rose II were advertised in Fender catalogs after Fender took over distribution in 1991. Fender did not make left handed guitars with Floyd Rose tremolos.
I am not sure what other guitar brands other than Kramer, if any, produced left handed guitars with the stock double-locking Floyd Rose II, however OEM branded versions were common. See following.
From my research it seems the Floyd Rose II may have been dropped around 2000.
Floyd Rose II: OEM supply
Floyd Rose offered both the single locking and double locking Floyd Rose II tremolos as branded OEM versions, and these were adopted by Jackson, Carvin, Charvel, ESP, Hamer, Gibson, Music Man, Peavey, and Washburn for some of their production guitars through to the 1990s. These OEM models retained the "orange peel" finish of the stock Floyd Rose II. Unlike the original Floyd Rose II, the OEM branded version had to have a corresponding licensing statement.
OEM units were embossed on the face of the upper base plate with the guitar brand name and embossed on the lower face of the base plate with "Made in Germany by Schaller." The tail had "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" embossed with a border around the statement. Two U.S patent numbers were engraved in the block.
Jackson-Charvel: For Jackson the string-through Floyd Rose II was model JT-570 and the double-locking Floyd Rose II was JT-590. For Charvel the latter was the FLC-202. They had "Jackson" or "Charvel" embossed on the top side of the base plate. No left handed guitars were produced with the JT-570. The JT-590 was used on the lefty Grover Jackson RR/L D-144. The identical FLC-202 was used on the 1989-1991 Japan-only, catalog lefty Charvel 475 Deluxe and the 1990-1991 Japan-only catalog lefty Charvel DK-095-SSHL.
Carvin switched from Kahler tremolos to the double locking OEM tremolo in 1990. It was listed in Carvin catalogs as the FC3 from 1990-1993. All Carvin guitars were offered left handed. OEM Floyd Rose-equipped Carvin guitars included the BC130 (1990 only), DC125, DC127, DC135, DC145, LS175 (1991 only), DC200, DC300, DC400, X220, and the long-running Ultra V. From 1994 Carvin switched to Wilkinson tremolos with Original Floyd Rose as an option.
Hamer: The Schaller double-locking OEM unit was used on many Hamer guitars such as this red 1989 Elite Graphic Finish left handed Hamer Californian Elite Custom Shop, this black 1990 left handed Hamer USA Californian, this 1993 Transparent Cherry Red Hamer USA Diablo, and this Sea Foam Green 1993 left-handed Hamer E4TE Californian. It was stamped "Hamer" on the opposite side of the "Made in Germany by Schaller" inscription.
Lâg: French guitar brand Lâg used an OEM version of the Schaller double-locking Floyd Rose II for their guitars during the 1980s including this sunburst left handed Lâg Roxane FR model.
Note: ESP, Gibson, Music Man, Peavey, and Washburn at that time either did not make left-handed guitars at all or did not make left-handed guitars with the OEM version of the Floyd Rose II, but did so for some of their right-handed guitars.
NOTE TO LEFT-HANDED GUITARISTS: The Floyd Rose II has long been discontinued and unavailable. How do you restore a guitar today with a worn-out Floyd Rose II? Especially a lefty guitar? Or what if you just like the look and want something better than a Floyd Rose Special?
If you are restoring an original left handed FRII-equipped guitar, you can upgrade your tired FRII tremolo to a compatible aftermarket equivalent, made in Korea, available for immediate purchase from Gaskell Guitars Australia.
It is also a straight swap for your lefty Floyd Rose Special.
These are OEM units which are not supplied to the public, only to manufacturers.
The Gaskell units are brand new and are identical to the original Floyd Rose II, even down to the distinctive "orange peel" finish.
Note: This unit is not a genuine Floyd Rose product and therefore does not have a "Floyd Rose II" base plate inscription.
Available in chrome, gold, and black. Prices range from US$119 - US$139. Block size = 36mm. L2 nut, posts, springs, and all parts are included for immediate installation. International postage is available. In stock. Left handed units only.
Floyd Rose 1000 Series Original Style Tremolo System
Status: Current
On lower-cost guitars fitted with a genuine Floyd Rose tremolo, the unit was not made in Germany but made in Korea. Some Korean OEM production had been occurring since the 1980s for non-U.S guitar models but it was initially Schaller producing both the originals and OEM models for guitar brands while other manufacturers were producing licensed versions.
Since about 2010 OEM versions of the Original Floyd Rose systems have been made in Korea. I eventually identified Sung-il Hightech Co Ltd as one of the manufacturers but I was told by AP International in 2025 that Sung-il has not worked with Floyd Rose for a long time. These OEM models were designated the "1000-Series" until 2020 after which they underwent a name change to 1000 Series Original Style Tremolo System.
The product description on the Floyd Rose website used to say:
"The 1000 Series Original is the Korean-made version of the Original Tremolo, made to the same specifications and materials, but is available only to guitar manufacturers and cannot be purchased aftermarket..."
Because it is a Floyd Rose genuine product, as with the earlier OEM Floyd Rose II, it does not have or need a "Licensed Under Floyd Rose Patents" statement. The 1000-Series is simply stamped with "Floyd Rose" on the base with only one exception: EVH guitars that use the 1000-Series have "EVH Floyd Rose" stamped on the base plate, apparently the result of a special arrangement between Floyd Rose and Eddie Van Halen. See the current left handed EVH Striped Series (Red with Black and White Stripes), the EVH left handed 5150 Series Standard, the EVH Wolfgang USA Left Hand, and the EVH left handed Wolfgang Special. This left handed 2012 Fender EVH Wolfgang Standard is an early example of the EVH-branded 1000L. The left handed EVH 1000 Series was even advertised on the Floyd Rose website alongside the 1000 Series Original during the 2010s.
1000-Series units have the "FR" logo and the website address stamped on the block. The lefty chrome version is the FRT-01000L, the black is the FRT-02000L and gold is the FRT-03000L.
Prior to the release of the Floyd Rose Special, 1000-Series units were sometimes branded. An example is this blue 2016 lefty ESP LTD MH-103 QM. In 2023 AP International told me that this is no longer the practice.
Floyd Rose Special Tremolo System
Status: Current
The Floyd Rose Special was introduced in 2008, originally made in Korea exclusively for Floyd Rose. It was a brilliant marketing decision to combat the flood of cheap Chinese Floyd Rose copies that were starting to come onto the market during the 2000s, and to undercut the cheaper but still high-quality licensed OFR alternatives like the Takeuchi TRS-101 and Gotoh GE1996T. Takeuchi coincidentally went out of business two years later.
The Floyd Rose Special is exactly the same as the Korean-made OEM 1000 Series but uses zinc alloy saddles in place of steel and a zinc alloy sustain block in place of brass. It is branded "Floyd Rose Special" on the baseplate and has the "FR" logo on the block.
The Floyd Rose Special (and 1000 Series) used to be manufactured by Sung il in Korea until around 2020, coincidentally the same year that the Floyd Rose OEM and Floyd Rose Special tremolos disappeared off the Sung il website. Current versions of the Special are made in China. They now have a "W" stamped on the underside of the base plate. There are some noticeable small differences in quality.
Unlike the OEM-only 1000 Series, the Special is available to the public and can be bought direct from Floyd Rose or from a reseller. Unfortunately, lefty versions weren't made available until 2020. The S1000L model is the lefty chrome version, the S2000L model is black, and the S3000L is the gold model.
The Special is the usual Floyd Rose tremolo for entry-to-mid-level guitars produced by most international guitar brands today. AP International offers the option to stamp the Special. The standard stamping format is "[brand] by Floyd Rose." Jackson's current left handed JS32L Randy Rhoads, made in China is an example.
NOTE: From 2021, there was a left-handed 7-string Floyd Rose Special, model FRTSSS1000L, but as of 2025 they are sold out according to the Floyd Rose website. The 7-string lefty was available in chrome, black, black nickel, and gold. Guitars that have the lefty 7 string Special are the Dean USA Limited Edition Rusty Cooley Signature RC7, the Schecter Jeff Loomis JL-7, the Sawtooth Americana Heritage HM724, and this Agile Interceptor Pro 725 EB DNC. Discontinued lefty models include this Washburn PXSOLAR170CLH Ola Englund Parallaxe Solar 7-String.
Floyd Rose 1500 Series
Status: Current
The 1500 Series Tremolo is the upgraded version of the OEM 1000 Series Tremolo (made in Korea) with stainless steel screws and a Push-In tremolo arm. The bridge plate, saddles, insert blocks, studs & inserts, and locking nut retain those of the 1000 Series. Like the 1000 Series, the 1500 Series is an OEM option available only to guitar manufacturers and is not available for aftermarket purchase. There are 6 and 7 string versions.
You can upgrade your existing 1000 Series tremolo yourself with these parts to make a 1500 Series:
• Push-In Tremolo Arm
• Stainless Steel Screws
SERVICE NOTICE: I no longer provide this service; however, I will perform Titanium upgrades on 100 Series or 1000 Series units if you provide your own unit. I will not upgrade Floyd Rose Special units manufactured after 2020 due to recurring quality concerns with the post‑2020 Chinese production. Fees for the parts and work apply. For Titanium upgrades please contact me at gaskellguitars@mail.com
Fernandes 1981 - 1985 (Floyd Rose contract)
Fernandes Electric Sound Research Group Co. Ltd. of Japan was the original contracted supplier of Floyd Rose tremolos, supplying the prototypes and first production models beginning in late 1981.
Fernandes was primarily a design, marketing, and distribution company, not a manufacturer themselves. From 1969 they began marketing Fender-style guitars under the Fernandes brand and Gibson-style guitars under the Burny brand. They relied on a network of OEM manufacturers to build their products. Gotoh was their primary supplier of metal parts. Over time Fernandes expanded beyond guitars and began marketing electronics, replacement parts and accessories.
In all the years since, it has never been made public as to who Fernandes used for the Floyd Rose contract.
NOTE: With the exception of the 1983 catalog, Fernandes catalogs during the Floyd Rose contract (1982-1985) never featured pictures of left-handed models.
Floyd Rose FRT-1
(1981-1982)
Status: Superseded
Floyd Rose personally manufactured and sold his double-locking tremolo from 1978. This early unit had the locking saddles but no fine tuners. Once it was double-locked, the guitar could not be retuned without loosening the locking nut at the neck, retuning, and then retightening the nut.
Rose presented it publicly at the 1981 NAMM Show, where he and representatives of Fernandes first met. Shortly after NAMM, Rose contracted Fernandes to mass-produce it with production beginning late 1981. Using Gotoh as the manufacturer, Fernandes supplied complete units and parts to Rose in the United States, and it appeared in Fernandes' own catalog for 1982 designated as the FRT-1. The Japanese FRT-1s have a sticker on the block that reads "Floyd Rose TREMOLO SYSTEM Pat. 4171,671."
The FRT-1 was featured on the 1982 Fernandes FST‑90TH, FST‑70TH, FST‑70TH‑C, ST-160 "Leopard", and ST-130 (Stratocaster) models, the EX-145 (Explorer), and the FV-135 (Flying V) catalog models; and on the Fernandes ST-135VH Eddie Van Halen and LG-135NS Neil Schon "Musician's Limited Series." Most Fernandes guitars during this period were built by Kawai Gakki.
The FRT-1 was advertised in Volume 1 of the 1982 catalog as being available for both right-handed and left-handed players, but without model‑specific or ordering details. However, Volume 2 includes a dedicated disclaimer and general ordering terms for left-handed guitars. It stated that left-handed guitars could be special-ordered with a lead time of 3 to 4 months and a 20% surcharge but did not specify which models could or could not be ordered.
Floyd Rose FRT-3
(1982-1985)
Status: Discontinued
After a quick redesign of the saddles, the FRT-1 became the FRT-3, released only six months later. The FRT-3 was the first production unit to be engraved with "Floyd Rose" branding on the upper base plate. Fernandes continued to supply the new FRT-3 to Rose in the United States, where it was used on Kramer guitars.
For Japan, the FRT-3 first appeared in Volume 1 of the 1983 Fernandes catalog (published late 1982) as a genuine Floyd Rose product. It was used on the 1983 Fernandes FST-115, FST-120H, ST-120, and ST-160 superstrats, the FV-135 Flying V, and the EX-145 Explorer models from the main catalog, as well as on signature models ST‑105BG (Brad Gillis), ST‑145SL (Steve Lukather), and ST‑135VH (Eddie Van Halen "Bumblebee" replica).
The table on page 38 of the catalog lists a total of five Burny models and two Fernandes models that could be ordered left-handed, but none of the listed models featured Floyd Rose or Fernandes tremolo systems. In contrast, page 10 of the catalog shows a picture of a left-handed blueburst EX-145 (Explorer) with a Floyd Rose FRT-3! Additionally, surviving examples of left-handed guitars from 1983 with the FRT-3 are this 1983 EX-145 and this 1983 FV-135.
After Schaller began producing Floyd Rose tremolos at the end of 1983 following the Rose-Kramer deal, only the German-made FRT-3 was used on Kramer guitars thereafter, while the Japanese FRT-3s were used only on Fernandes models.
For 1984, the Japanese FRT‑3 was featured on the Fernandes FST‑85, FST‑80, and FST‑115 superstrat models; the BSV‑90, EX‑100, and EX‑145 Explorer models; two Brad Gillis signature models (ST‑155BG and ST‑105BG); a Steve Lukather replica (ST‑145SL); a Mick Jones replica (ML‑120MJ); and a Neil Schon replica (LG‑135NS). Only the 1984 FST‑85 and FST‑80 were explicitly marked in the catalog as available left‑handed. The FST Series were built by Kawai, including left-handed models.
Per the 1985 catalog, the FRT-3 was featured on the FST-75 superstrat and JS-100 Randy Rhoads V from the main catalog; and on four Brad Gillis Signature models, and a Vinnie Vincent (replica) Signature model. None of these were listed as available for left-handed ordering.
Floyd Rose FRT-4
(1982)
Status: Obsolete
With the addition of vertical fine tuners as recommended by Eddie Van Halen, the FRT-3 was developed into the prototype FRT‑4 in 1982. This change was achieved by folding the rear of the base plate vertically and positioning fine tuner knobs for each string along the raised rear of the bridge.
Although it never made it past prototype stage in the United States, the FRT‑4 was produced in Japan in 1982 and featured in the March 1983 Fernandes catalog as a genuine Floyd Rose product alongside the FRT-3 and Fernandes "Head Banker FRT-2" tremolo. (For information on the Head Banker, see Part 3: Floyd Rose Tremolos for Left Hand Guitars: Proprietary Versions.)
A product description for the FRT-4 in the 1983 catalog states:
ロック後でもチューニングの微調整を可能にしたファインチューナー装備のFRT-4。 ナットおよびサドルをロックしたまま、チューニングの微調整ができる便利な方式。ファインチューナーノブを手で回すだけで簡単にチューニングプレート弦の調整を可能にしています。 | The FRT-4 is equipped with fine tuners that allow minor tuning adjustments even after locking. This convenient system lets you fine-tune while the nut and saddles remain locked. Simply turn the fine-tuner knobs by hand to easily adjust the tuning of the strings on the tuning plate. |
The Japanese FRT-4 was embossed with "Floyd Rose" inside a rectangular border on the upper base plate. The 1983 Fernandes-Burny catalog states it was advertised on the Fernandes FST-155 and FST-135 superstrats. However, by the time the catalog was printed, the FRT-4 was already obsolete.
Here is a video by Youtube user mr. twistyneck examining several genuine Fernandes FRT-4 tremolos:
Left-handed availability for 1983
An ordering note on Page 38 in Volume 1 of the 1983 Fernandes-Burny catalog identified specific models from the regular lineup that could be special-ordered if out of stock. A total of 7 guitars, including several basses across the Fernandes and Burny model ranges, were marked in the 1983 catalog as eligible for ordering left-handed; however, none were models with the Floyd Rose FRT-3, FRT-4, or Fernandes' proprietary Head Banker FRT-2.
Prototype Floyd Rose FRT-5
(1982)
Status: Prototype
Fernandes worked with Floyd Rose during 1982 on the prototypes of the final two Floyd Rose designs, which were the double-locking fine tuner unit with the vertical tail and the double-locking fine tuner unit with the angled tail, both influenced by Eddie Van Halen's suggestions. The final design was completed in early 1983.
Its first public appearance in Japan of the double-locking fine tuner unit with the angled tail was in the July 1983 issue of Young Player magazine, where it was advertised as an ESP product called the "Magician." ESP was ghost-building the bodies and necks for Kramer guitars, which were then being assembled in the United States, and was about to fully manufacture the new Focus Series as Japanese-made budget alternatives to the U.S. models. As the manufacturer of the guitars, ESP also needed access to the OEM that was also manufacturing the components for Fernandes' own parts supply to the United States.
The Magician was then featured in ESP's August 1983 Export Catalog. The catalog listed the Magician as a boxed kit or factory option for ESP Custom Shop models.
ESP カスタム・ハードウェア：マジシャン・トレモロ・システム 世界初のフル・ファイン・チューナー・ロック・トレモロ。ダブル・ロッキングでピッチ・スタビリティを保証。ベンド・スチール・ベースプレート、T-ブロック・サドル、ナット/ワッシャー・アーム機構。ゴールド・フィニッシュオプションあり。対応モデル：Mirage SE-170, Navigator VHシリーズ。価格：¥50,000 (クローム)/¥55,000 (ゴールド)。 [Specs: Stud spacing 74mm; Knife-edge pivot; Compatible with locking nut.] | ESP Custom Hardware: Magician Tremolo System World's first full fine-tuner locking tremolo. Double-locking guarantees pitch stability. Bent steel baseplate, T-block saddles, nut/washer arm mechanism. Gold finish option available. Compatible models: Mirage SE-170, Navigator VH series. Price: ¥50,000 (chrome)/¥55,000 (gold). [Specs: Stud spacing 74mm; Knife-edge pivot; Compatible with locking nut.] |
Unbeknownst to Fernandes, in early 1983 Kramer had done a deal with Schaller in Germany to manufacture Floyd Rose systems for the U.S. and international markets, effectively sidelining Fernandes despite their active contract. According to a former Fernandes employee, the company did not find out about Schaller's involvement until the end of 1983, by which time Schaller had already been producing its version of the final Floyd Rose design for several months, leaving Fernandes completely blindsided.
Japanese "Floyd Rose" FRT-7
(1985)
Status: Discontinued
The new imported German unit was advertised in Volume 1 of the 1984 Fernandes catalog as the "FRT-5" and was featured on the Fernandes FST-155 and FST-135 superstrats, and the BSV-135 Flying V, but with almost no information about it in their product descriptions. In fact, the FRT-5 information page was largely a copy of the previous year’s FRT-4 page, with only updated photographs—and even a missed typo referring to it as "FRT-4"—giving the impression of a rushed response to the new German tremolo rather than a fully developed product listing. Other Fernandes guitars in the catalog featured either the Floyd Rose FRT-3 or Fernandes Head Banker FRT-2.
Left-handed availability for 1984
The ordering disclaimer on page 46 of the 1984 Fernandes-Burny catalog was the same as 1983 but this time listed 10 models between the two brands that were eligible for left-hand ordering. Marked models with tremolo systems were the FST-85, and FST-80 with Floyd Rose FRT-3, and the FST-65 with the Fernandes FRT-2 Head Banker.
In 1984, Fernandes did not have a version of the final double locking tremolo with fine tuners. However, they proceeded with the Japanese design previously used by ESP on their custom guitars in 1983. This design was introduced in the Fernandes 1985 catalog as the "Floyd Rose FRT-7." The baseplate and tail design also served as the basis of the string-through Fernandes Head Crasher FRT-6, also released in 1985. While the former Fernandes employee doesn't explicitly say so, his recollections suggest that Takeuchi was the OEM that manufactured the FRT-7 (and likely the almost-identical FRT-6.)
Both the FRT-7 and the German FRT-5 appeared in the catalog advertised as "Floyd Rose" products. The FRT-7's use was confined to the Japan market only and was featured on the Fernandes FST-85, FST-90, and FST-55 superstrats, and the BSV-70 and BSV-90 Flying Vs for 1985.
Fernandes also advertised both versions as kits and offered retrofit and aftermarket installations. The imported FRT-5 kit was more expensive than the local FRT-7 kit.
Both the Japanese and German units were etched with "Floyd Rose" at the top of the base plate. The Fernandes blocks had a sticker that reads "Floyd Rose TREMOLO SYSTEM PAT. 4,171,661." The Schaller units had "Made in Germany" embossed under the base plate and a "Made in W. Germany" sticker on the block. Some notable design differences are:
The Japanese version is made of bent steel. The German original was cast.
The German version uses imperial measurements. The Japanese version uses metric.
The arches between where the forks meet the tail are oval on the Fernandes FRT-7 (and Fernandes Head Crasher FRT-6) while the arches on the Schaller FRT-5 are square.
The baseplate of the German version is more rectangular with harsher right angles. The Japanese version is more rounded, and its tail curves back.
Colour | German FRT-5 (1985) | Japanese FRT-7 (1985) |
Chrome | ¥65,000 | ¥45,000 |
Gold | ¥68,000 | ¥47,000 |
Black | ¥69,000 | ¥47,000 |
Left handed availability for 1985
In Volume 1 of the 1985 Fernandes-Burny catalog, as noted on Page 49, the ordering process for left-handed guitars and the general ordering conditions were revised:
③ サウスポーギターについて ● 印のものはロット生産していますが常時生産しておりませんので、詳細によっては在庫がない場合があります。その場合には、約3ヶ月〜6ヶ月の納期が必要となります。尚、定価は、本体定価の20%アップにしています。 ▲ 印のものはロット生産していませんが、特注で単価は高くなりますが、納期は約3ヶ月〜6ヶ月以内で上の納期内で対応します。尚、定価は、本体定価の20%アップにしています。 × 印のものは、オーダーを受付していません。 無印のもののオーダーを受付しておりますが、特殊な治具が必要となる場合はその価格及び納期は、部品によって異なりますのでご注文依頼時に確認願います。 | ③ Regarding Left-Handed Guitars
Items marked with ●: These are produced in batches but not on a regular basis, so availability may vary depending on production schedules. In such cases, a lead time of about 3 to 6 months will be required. Please note: A 20% surcharge will be added to the base price.
Items marked with ▲: These are not batch-produced but can be special-ordered, although at a higher price. Lead times are approximately 3 to 6 months, within the same time frame as batch-produced models. A 20% surcharge will also be added to the base price.
Items marked with × : Orders are not accepted for these items.
Orders for unmarked items are accepted, but if special tooling is required, pricing and delivery time will vary depending on the components involved. Please confirm these details when placing your order. |
Left-handed guitar models listed as "produced in batches" were the FST-65 fitted with Fernandes' proprietary Head Crasher FRT-6, and the BSV-60 fitted with the Fernandes Head Banker FRT-2.
Models listed as "not batch-produced but can be special-ordered" were the FST-75 fitted with the Floyd Rose FRT-3, the FST-85, FST-90, and BSV-90 fitted with the Japanese FRT-7, and the BSV-70 fitted with the Fernandes Head Crasher FRT-6.
Left hand examples include this black 1985 left handed FST-85L and this white 1985 left-handed BSV-70.
End of contract
Sometime in 1985, the contract between Fernandes and Floyd Rose ended, and Schaller thereafter became the exclusive manufacturer of both the non-fine tuner (FRT-3) and fine-tuner (FRT-5) Floyd Rose systems. Fernandes' response was to rebrand their product range as the "Head Crasher Tremolo System" and continue to develop and manufacture their range of vibrato bridges exclusively for the Japanese domestic market.
The company closed its doors in July 2024.
See here for Fernandes' venture into proprietary tremolo systems post Floyd Rose: Floyd Rose Tremolos for left hand guitars: Proprietary Versions
Ping Well 1987 - 2008
Ping Well Industrial Co. Ltd. located in Taiwan was a supplementary producer of Floyd genuine Floyd Rose tremolos and was personally selected to produce Rose's Speedloader bridges (never available left handed.) They also supplied licensed Floyd Rose tremolos as OEM products and produced proprietary models for multiple guitar brands. They also have their own patents for guitar tuners and locking tuners. The following information is about Ping Well's genuine Floyd Rose products that were available left handed.
For Ping Well's OEM production of licensed Floyd Rose systems, see: Part 2: OEM Producers
For Ping Well's OEM production of proprietary systems for other brands, see: Part 3: Proprietary Versions
For Ping Well's genuine Floyd Rose products that were never available left handed, see: Part 5: No-Names, Fakes, Unknowns, and Never Left Handed
Genuine Floyd Rose tremolo
Status: Discontinued
During the 2000s, Ping Well manufactured a double locking tremolo for Floyd Rose. It was identical in every way to the Original Floyd Rose but with a solid, "non-plated" brass block and arm bushing. Apparently, it was produced under the strict supervision of Floyd Rose directly, to supplement Schaller production. There is very little publicly available information about this product. I personally have never seen one.
This Ping Well unit was apparently the only Floyd Rose system other than the German-made OFR at that time that was permitted to be branded simply as "Floyd Rose". The unit had "Floyd Rose" laser etched on the upper base with the "PW" logo on the lower base. The tail was laser etched with "LICENSED UNDER FLOYD ROSE PATENTS" (all in capitals) in white lettering. The block was etched with the block size and sometimes the '236 and '661 patents. It was used on the Gibson Les Paul Axcess Series, introduced in 2008. Note, the unit supplied to Gibson has "Floyd Rose" in a cursive font on the base plate.
It was available as an aftermarket kit through distributors such as Axcessories (www.axcessories.com) and was only US$30 less than an Original Floyd Rose. These could still be bought up to about 2016. I do not know if there was ever a lefty kit.
Floyd Rose Speed loader Fixed Bridge
(2004 - ?)
Status: Discontinued
The Floyd Rose SpeedLoader Fixed Bridge is a flat-mount fixed bridge with fine tuners based on the SpeedLoader and released at the same time. Being fixed, it can be used as a right-handed or left-handed bridge. I've never seen one, but apparently, it can still be used with Fender bullet strings. It has "Floyd Rose" in cursive script embossed at the top of the base plate, with "Fixed" embossed on the other side. "P.W" is embossed on the underside.
This bridge also came under scrutiny in the McCabe vs. Floyd Rose et al. case in 2010.
As of 2025, knockoffs are being sold on AliExpress and even state they are "made in Taiwan." The only way they are not counterfeits is if they are, in fact, leftover dead stock.
Note: Ping Well no longer sells Floyd Rose tremolos of any kind; the last time they were advertised was in their 2015 catalog. Since about 2020, they have had a new website and a new logo and sell mainly guitar tuners and some bridges.
Glossary of Terms
Batch-produced: Stock products manufactured in limited runs, not custom orders.
Custom order: Made-to-order units, often with long lead times or higher cost.
License stamp: “Licensed Under Floyd Rose Pats.” on a tremolo post-2008 does not indicate an active agreement — it’s legacy tooling or marketing.
Licensed Floyd Rose: A tremolo made under official Floyd Rose branding but by a third-party manufacturer.
N.O.S. (New Old Stock): Unused parts from discontinued production runs.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): A third-party company that produces parts for other brands.
OFR: Original Floyd Rose. Applies to the modern FRT100 Series currently made in the USA and formerly made in Germany. Historically also refers to the Japanese and German FRT-5.
Proprietary: An in-house design, self-branded and used only for the company's own products, usually manufactured by an OEM. For example, the Jackson JT6 tremolo was a property of Jackson-Charvel in the United States, manufactured by OEM Ping Well of Taiwan.
Tremolo: A musical effect where the volume (amplitude) of a note is rapidly modulated, producing a pulsating or shuddering sound. It is distinct from vibrato, which otherwise affects pitch, not volume. For decades this term has been technically misused to describe pitch-bending effects such as those produced by guitar vibrato systems.
Upcharge / Surcharge: An upcharge is an extra charge for an additional service or option, while a surcharge is an extra charge added to the standard cost, often for specific circumstances.
Vibrato: A musical effect where the pitch of a note is varied up and down, usually rapidly, creating a warbling or wavering sound. This expressive technique adds warmth and richness to music, commonly used by singers and instrumentalists.