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What brands and types of tuning machines do you like? What makes them good?

Grover tuners are good. I like to have a smooth feel with good control. They are also guaranteed for life.

I have always been partial to Grovers.....but, I have been putting Gotohs on my builds....go figure. They are nice, but the finish on the knobs is not that great.
I think the next time I will buy Grovers. High quality, and moderate price.

Kevin

Pings are nice as well.

Bryan Kimsey did a great article on different tuners for replacing old Rotomatics on Martins.

http://www.bryankimsey.com/tuners/

I had him put open backed Gotohs on my old D18 and have been happy with them.

Most people would say the Waverlies are about the best for steel string and maybe Sloans for classicals (assuming you don't want to break the bank). I've been happy with both Grovers and Gotohs on my "average" guitars and have installed StewMac's vintage reproductions on a couple of guitars that I wanted that old timey vib.

I am trying to decide what tuners to get for my build, so I`m also curious about everyones opinions

A quality tuner will look good as well as work well . The names that you will see a lot are Waverlies ( high quality and very pricey ) Gotoh good basic machines Grover Also a good tuner. This company retooled about 2 - 3 years ago and provide a life time guarantee , Shallers also good ping is at the lower end but are serviceable then you have lots of lower end tuners.
Cost of tuners can range from $20 to $600 You want a tuner that is smooth operating with a minimum of back lash. You will see on higher end tuners that you can adjust them.....