Chapter 5: String Changing with Robot II Technology
Because each key turns extremely slowly when tuned by hand, Dark Fire includes three modes to
speed up, and automate, the string-changing process. Reminder: Do not use manual or
mechanically-powered “string winder” tools. There are three primary functions to help you
change strings:
String Up Mode (for changing all strings at once)
Single String Up Mode (for replacing individual strings)
String Down Mode (for removing all strings at the same time)
Note: You may want to “break in” your strings by tugging gently on them, and also perform multiple
tunings until they've stabilized—as when changing strings on a conventional guitar. Also, use strings
with ends that fit completely within the bridge end holes and do not short out to the bridge.
Installing Strings: General Guidelines
1. Manually rotate each tuner until the hole in the string binding post provides a straight path for
threading each new string.
2. Guide each string through your tailpiece, over the center of each saddle (where contact is
essential), through the nut slot, then straight through the post hole.
3. Pull the string slightly to take up any slack, then tighten down the locking nut on the post hole.
4. Cut the extra length off each string close to the post; if one string contacts another, the system
may function improperly. Also, do not use any strings which have frayed wraps at the ball end
(Dark Fire will not function if any part of the string touches beyond its insulated holder), and
don't let steel bottleneck slides contact the strings during tuning operations.
5. Manually turn each tuning peg to tighten the string tension—just enough for the Piezo bridge to
accurately "read" the string pitch.
All Strings Up Mode
To change all strings at the same time:
1. After installing all strings as described previously, pull out the MCK and turn it counter-
clockwise until the b# symbol lights blue. The Display Matrix will also shine blue (Dark Fire is
in the Blue Bank).
2. Press the Display Matrix momentarily. The Display Matrix will shine green (Dark Fire is in the
Green Bank).
3. Turn the MCK to the Rotating Arrow position.
4. Now press the MCK's Display Matrix and hold until all the String LEDs shine red. Gently tap
the strings against their Piezo saddles, and their corresponding Powerheads will start to turn
and place tension on the strings.
5. Once there is enough tension on the strings for them to approach pitch, gently strum the
strings. Pause briefly between strums to allow the Powerheads to turn. The strings' LEDs will
change colors to indicate status until they turn green, indicating the strings have reached pitch.
Gibson Dark Fire 4.0 manual, page 22
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