Zoundhouse Fender Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo Assembly Review: Upgrade Your Stratocaster?

Zoundhouse Fender Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo Assembly Review: Upgrade Your Stratocaster?\n\nAre you looking to enhance the sustain, tuning stability, and overall performance of your Fender Stratocaster? The Zoundhouse Fender Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo Assembly offers a potential upgrade path for many guitarists. This tremolo system is designed to replace the vintage-style six-screw tremolos often found on standard Stratocasters, promising smoother operation and improved reliability. It's targeted towards players seeking a modern tremolo feel without drastically altering the classic Stratocaster aesthetic. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of this bridge assembly to help you decide if it's the right choice for your guitar.\n\nWhether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, a well-functioning tremolo system is crucial for expressive playing and maintaining proper intonation. The Zoundhouse Deluxe Series 2-Point Tremolo aims to provide a robust and reliable solution. This review examines its build quality, ease of installation, and overall value for money.\n\n## Key Features of the Zoundhouse Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo\n\n 2-Point Design: This modern design reduces friction, allowing for smoother tremolo action and improved return-to-pitch accuracy compared to vintage 6-screw tremolos. This leads to more stable tuning. \n Chrome Finish: A sleek chrome finish provides a classic look that complements a wide range of Stratocaster models and finishes. It offers a professional and aesthetically pleasing upgrade.\n Complete Assembly: The kit includes the bridge plate, saddles, tremolo block, tremolo arm, springs, claw, and mounting hardware, providing everything you need for a complete installation (though some minor adjustments may be required).\n Enhanced Sustain: The upgraded tremolo block potentially contributes to improved sustain and tonal resonance of your guitar. While subjective, many users report a noticeable difference.\n Compatibility: Designed as a drop-in replacement for many Fender Stratocaster models with a two-point tremolo system. Check measurements before purchasing to ensure proper fit.\n\n## Pros: Why Choose the Zoundhouse Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo?\n\n Smoother Tremolo Action: The 2-point design dramatically reduces friction compared to traditional 6-screw tremolos, resulting in a smoother and more responsive tremolo feel. This makes executing vibrato and dive bombs easier and more controlled.\n Improved Tuning Stability: The reduced friction and precise construction contribute to significantly improved tuning stability, even with aggressive tremolo use. This is a huge advantage for players who frequently use the tremolo arm.\n Enhanced Sustain and Resonance: Many users report an increase in sustain and overall resonance after installing this tremolo system. The upgraded tremolo block is often cited as a contributing factor to this improved tone.\n Direct Replacement (Generally): The Zoundhouse tremolo is often a direct drop-in replacement for existing two-point tremolo systems on many Fender Stratocasters, simplifying installation (although some minor setup adjustments are still likely needed).\n\n## Cons: Potential Drawbacks\n\n May Require Professional Setup: While often a direct replacement, achieving optimal performance may require professional setup and intonation to ensure proper functionality and prevent buzzing. Some guitar tech skills are definitely helpful for installation and setup.\n Not Suitable for All Stratocasters: This tremolo assembly is specifically designed for Stratocasters with a 2-point tremolo system. It's NOT a direct replacement for vintage 6-screw tremolo systems without modification to the guitar body (which could be extensive).\n Saddle Quality Concerns: While generally well-regarded, some users have reported slight imperfections in the saddle casting or finish on some units, although this appears to be infrequent.\n\n## Who Should Buy the Zoundhouse Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo?\n\nThe Zoundhouse Fender Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo Assembly is an excellent choice for guitarists who already have a Stratocaster with a 2-point tremolo system and are looking for a noticeable upgrade in performance and tuning stability. If you find your current tremolo system feels stiff, is difficult to keep in tune, or lacks sustain, this could be a worthwhile investment.\n\nThis upgrade is also well-suited for players who frequently use the tremolo arm and demand smooth, responsive action. The improved design minimizes friction and allows for more expressive playing without constantly battling tuning issues. Furthermore, it's a great option for those seeking to enhance the overall tone and resonance of their instrument, even if subtly.\n\nHowever, if you own a vintage-style Stratocaster with a 6-screw tremolo, installing this assembly will require modifications to the guitar body, which is not recommended for beginners and could potentially devalue the instrument. In that case, you might want to consider other alternatives like a high-quality 6-screw tremolo system. Consider options from brands like Gotoh or Wilkinson. The Zoundhouse is a more modern option.\n\n## Conclusion: Is the Zoundhouse Tremolo Worth It?\n\nAt a price of $69.99, the Zoundhouse Fender Deluxe Series 2 Point Tremolo Assembly offers excellent value for guitarists seeking a noticeable upgrade to their Stratocaster's tremolo system. Its improved tuning stability, smoother action, and potential enhancement to sustain make it a worthwhile investment for players who frequently use the tremolo arm. While a professional setup may be required for optimal performance, the benefits far outweigh the cost for those with compatible guitars.\n\nFor players with existing 2-point tremolo systems seeking to improve their guitar's performance without breaking the bank, the Zoundhouse Deluxe Series is a strong contender. Consider this a cost effective way to unlock greater potential from your instrument. Remember to verify compatibility before purchase.

FAQ about the Zoundhouse Tremolo

A: It might, but it's crucial to measure your existing tremolo block and compare it to the dimensions of the Zoundhouse tremolo. Squier Stratocasters sometimes have different measurements than standard Fender models.

A: You'll need basic guitar tools such as screwdrivers, a string winder, wire cutters, and possibly a soldering iron to reconnect the ground wire. A setup and intonation will likely be required, so tools for that are useful, too.

A: If you're comfortable with basic guitar maintenance and setup, you can likely install it yourself. However, if you're unsure, it's best to take it to a professional luthier or guitar tech.

A: The string spacing is a standard Fender string spacing of 2-1/16 inches.