Everyone loves changing strings, right? Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the time you spend on this task. From portable workstations to multi-purpose tools, options abound for making string changing a simpler affair, so you can get back to the important activity—playing guitar. Here are a few tools that can aid in changing the ropes.
GMT-004
This compact, versatile, and durable folding workspace station provides ample space for changing strings and other instrument maintenance, and features separate compartments to keep strings, tools, and supplies close at hand.
GrooveTech GTGTR1
This kit includes such essentials for changing strings as a winder and high-quality cutter, but it also has you covered with all the DIY setup tools you need and an easy setup guide—all for about the price of having someone else do a setup for you.
JP Guitar Tool
This stainless-steel all-in-one tool boasts spring-action pliers and cutters, hex wrenches, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, a bridge-pin puller, and comes with a handy nylon case with a belt loop.
Stretcha
Strings need to be stretched after changing. By sliding this handy, ergonomically shaped tool over the length of the strings, you’ll achieve even, consistent stretching in about five minutes.
Power String Winder
Attach this precision-molded plastic tool to any 1/4" cordless drill or manual socket driver and save time winding. The plastic will not scratch tuners and the one size will work for most instruments.
Headstand
The compact and collapsible Headstand is easily stowed in a guitar case, yet when in use, the rugged support will cradle an instrument securely for hassle-free string changes.
Li’l Nipper
This lightweight multi-tasking tool functions as a bridge-pin puller, string winder, and string cutter, and includes an adapter for smaller tuning buttons.
NC65 Maintenance Station Neck Cradle
This self-aligning cradle rotates to provide full support to the back or front of an instrument’s neck, and creates the stability you need to do maintenance or repair work.
Power Peg Pro
This rechargeable battery-powered winder accommodates most tuning keys and can cut the time it takes to wind strings by hand by up to 80 percent.
Guitar Work Station
This portable workstation features a soft pad that rolls up, a secured neck support that doubles as a storage compartment, and a storage tube for easy transport or stowage.
Taylor’s The Last of Us Replica 314c guitar is based on its best-selling 300 Series and features Taylor’s most popular body style, the Grand Auditorium. Crafted with Taylor’s hallmark playability, pro-level sound and refined workmanship, the guitar showcases a visual aesthetic that matches the guitar featured in the series.
For fans of the show, the guitar’s most recognizable design element is a custom moth inlay at the third fret. The guitar also features a Tobacco Sunburst top finish and grained ivoroid accents, along with a satin-finish body and neck, creating a vintage, well-worn aesthetic that fits seamlessly into the gritty post-pandemic world Joel and Ellie inhabit.
This acoustic-only model features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid sapele back and sides, delivering a clear, warm, balanced voice with appealing midrange presence — an ideal sonic tool for storytelling through song. Additional appointments include grained ivoroid body binding, grained ivoroid fretboard inlays that include the moth and large dot position markers, and a custom double-ring rosette also in grained ivoroid. The Grand Auditorium body features a Venetian cutaway for easy access to upper-register notes. Each guitar comes with a Taylor-built deluxe hardshell case to ensure safe transport, whether across the country or across the quarantine zone.
Built for the Journey Ahead
“The Last of Us is a story of resilience, connection and finding beauty amid harsh realities — themes that resonate with the emotional expression a Taylor guitar offers players,” says Tim O’Brien, Vice President of Marketing at Taylor Guitars. “We’re honored to collaborate with HBO and Sony Pictures Consumer Products to bring this iconic instrument to fans and players alike.”
Availability and Ordering
The Taylor x The Last of Us Replica guitar is available for purchase now via TaylorGuitars.comand select authorized Taylor dealers. Orders are built on demand in Taylor’s Southern California factory, with an expected delivery time of 6–10 weeks. Due to the nature of this release, quantities are limited.
Whether you’re a musician, collector or a devoted fan of the series, this guitar offers a one-of-a kind connection to the legacy of Joel, Ellie and the enduring spirit of survival.
Keeley Electronics Octa Psi Transfigurating Fuzz
Imagine merging a powerful pitch-shifter, octave generator, and an incredible analog fuzz into one intuitive pedal. The new Octa Psi makes that dream a reality!
$249 street
robertkeeley.com
Wampler Pedals Cryptid Fuzz
This unique circuit is capable of reproducing classic immense fuzz tones, and it’s also easy to create unique new fuzz sounds by dialing in the character control.
$199 street
wamplerpedals.com
StewMac Sun Fuzz Pedal
There have been countless replicas and reimaginations of the classic Fuzz Face pedal and more modern Sun Face over the decades. StewMac’s Sun Fuzz gives you the control and tone shaping you’ve always wanted from the originals. For fans of Hendrix, Clapton, or Gilmour, it’s a must-have.
$99 street
stewmac.com
SoloDallas Orbiter Fuzz
A testament to the expertise and perfectionism that has made SoloDallas a mainstay for over 50 major artists. The unique combination of carbon zinc power emulation, internal impedance control, and external fuzz, gain, and bias produces authentic tones ranging from Hendrix psychedelia to singing “American Woman” fuzz.
$249 street
solodallas.com
Dunlop MXR Hybrid Fuzz
This pedal combines two iconic Fuzz Face distortion sounds—snarling, high-gain silicon and the smooth, shaggy warmth of germanium.
$169 street
jimdunlop.com
Dunlop MXR Super Badass Variac Fuzz
This fuzz is a tonechaser’s dream come true, featuring a Variac control that takes you from vintage dying-battery sag to wide-open saturation.
$149 street
jimdunlop.com
