Kluson Replicas with oval metal buttons? 6 and 12?

Does anyone know of a good original looking, but better quality replacement for the Gibson Deluxe kluson tuners with METAL oval buttons? There are at least a few makers of plastic button replicas (Golden Age, Antique Acoustic Replicas, etc) but I can't find a source for metal buttons ones anywhere.

Part of the problem is that it is a 70's Gibson doubleneck so I need matching 6 string and 12 string sets too. My customer has already replaced the originals with brand new Klusons and (not surprisingly) did not see much improvement. All of the decent metal button tuners seem to be individual also - not on a plate. There has to be a good source out there somewhere...

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Permalink Reply by Paul Verticchio on October 7, 2014 at 7:34pm

Hi Jon.

Check out the Tonepros Kluson tuners from WD Music. IMO, the Tonepros series of Kluson tuners are MUCH better quality than the standard Kluson line. A quick review of their website shows the styles you’re looking for.

Also check out your favorite suppliers for Gotoh tuners in that style & configuration.

Gotoh distributors are able to work with the factory and can provide almost any style and configuration you desire. Check out Gotoh's website and download their catalog. What is AVAILABLE from the factory via a distributor is simply amazing.

Here’s a link to the Gotoh distributor in Canada. They are willing to and can help you out with custom orders: http://www.japarts.ca/ They’re good folks and they also carry a wide selection of super high quality tools.

Good luck with your quest :)

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Permalink Reply by Jon Hiltbrand on October 7, 2014 at 8:06pm

Thanks, Paul.

You are right, the tonepros ARE much better, but I didn't see any that I could use for both 12 and 6 for the double neck on WD's website. I'll check that again just to be sure.

Thanks for the Gotoh custom info too! I'm a fan of Gotoh tuners. I didn't realize that they would do custom orders. I'll check that out right away. Thanks again!