ESP has it wrong in their catalogs...

Updated
Beaten Beyond
In more than one of the ESP USA catalogs in the special features section, they have a part describing their String-thru Bass Bridge where they say: "Stringing through the body adds more string length, which increases string tension. This comes in very handy when using lower tunings and/or you need to "beef up" the string tension but don't want to increase the size of the strings." This is totally incorrect. Extra string length outside of the speaking length (i.e. scale length) has no affect on string tension. But it does greatly affect the feel of the strings by making them more "compliant"and feel looser provided the string doesn't bind in the nut or bridge saddle and is able to stretch as the strings move. Another thing that contributes to compliance and feel is the downward angle of the stings outside of the speaking length. The more downward angle, the tighter the strings will feel. Maybe that is what ESP was trying to say because string-thru does indeed create a downward angle that will make the strings feel tighter. Bonus info regarding reverse headstocks: provided you don't have a locking nut and strings don't bind in the nut and can stretch freely, then the lower strings will have a looser feel on a reverse headstock as compared to a normal headstock. For this reason, I don't care for reverse headstocks! This especially comes into play when you are downtuning and need to increase string gauge. You should be able to use a lower gauge string for the lowest string with a normal headstock as compared to a reverse headstock to get a similar feel. Same thing with the A string. Not so much with the D or G string because their string lengths are close. Bottom line: reverse headstocks aren't just about looks!
Justinschut

ok

Beaten Beyond

ok

:confused:

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