PRS SE Locking Tuners Chrome 3L/3R Guitar Machine Heads, (Used)

The PRS SE Locking Tuners in Chrome are an official Paul Reed Smith guitar hardware upgrade, designed to improve restringing convenience, provide precise tuning adjustment and retain the distinctive appearance of PRS SE electric guitars.

Developed as a direct replacement for the standard PRS-designed SE tuning machines fitted to many SE models, these premium locking tuners offer a straightforward way to enhance an instrument's practicality without dramatically changing its appearance.

Featuring a three-a-side (3L/3R) configuration, this six-piece set is designed for compatible PRS SE guitars with a conventional three-per-side headstock layout.

Each machine head features a top-operated locking mechanism, allowing the guitar string to be secured directly within the tuning post.

This eliminates the need for multiple string wraps and makes restringing considerably quicker and more convenient.

The locking arrangement can also help reduce unnecessary string movement around the tuning posts, particularly when the guitar is played with expressive bends or a suitable tremolo system.

The tuners feature a precise 18:1 gear ratio, providing smooth, controlled adjustment when bringing strings up to pitch.

Their traditional enclosed housings, PRS-style tuning buttons and attractive Chrome finish maintain the elegant appearance associated with PRS instruments.

The standard PRS SE locking tuner design uses unplated brass string posts, combining durable construction with the company's established approach to guitar hardware.

Designed for 10mm headstock mounting holes, these tuners use the fixing arrangement found on many PRS SE guitars.

For compatible instruments fitted with standard PRS-designed SE tuners, installation can be straightforward and may not require additional drilling.

However, compatibility should always be checked against the individual guitar, particularly on models fitted with vintage-style tuning machines.

This particular set of PRS SE Locking Tuners is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

The tuners come complete with their original box.

For PRS SE owners seeking faster string changes, a convenient locking mechanism and genuine PRS replacement hardware, these Chrome locking tuners are an excellent upgrade.

At A Glance

Detail	Information
Brand	PRS – Paul Reed Smith
Product	SE Locking Tuners
Finish	Chrome
Configuration	3 Left / 3 Right
Set Size	Six Tuners
Locking Mechanism	Top-Operated
Gear Ratio	18:1
Intended Use	Compatible PRS SE Electric Guitars
Condition	Very Good – Pre-Owned
Packaging	Original Box Included

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This PRS SE Locking Tuners Chrome set is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

The machine heads feature their traditional enclosed housings, Chrome finish and distinctive top-operated string-locking mechanisms.

Please study the accompanying product photographs carefully for an accurate assessment of their individual cosmetic condition, including the tuner bodies, buttons, posts and locking mechanisms.

Official PRS SE Upgrade

These are PRS-branded SE locking tuning machines, designed to replace the standard PRS-designed tuners fitted to many compatible PRS SE electric guitars.

Their appearance and fitting arrangement are intended to complement the original instrument.

Original Box Included

The tuners come complete with their original box, offering convenient packaging for storage and transportation.

What's Included

• Set of Six PRS SE Locking Tuners in Chrome

• Original Box

The presence of individual mounting screws, threaded bushings and washers has not been specified, so these additional fitting components are not guaranteed as part of this pre-owned set.

Key Features

• Official PRS SE Locking Tuners: Genuine Paul Reed Smith replacement hardware.

• Chrome Finish: Traditional, versatile appearance.

• Six-Piece Set: Three tuners for each side of the headstock.

• 3L/3R Configuration: Designed for compatible PRS SE guitars.

• Top-Operated Locking System: Straightforward string security.

• Knurled Locking Thumbscrews: Easy manual operation.

• 18:1 Gear Ratio: Smooth, accurate tuning adjustment.

• Unplated Brass String Posts: Traditional PRS hardware feature.

• Enclosed Tuner Housings: Protect the internal gearing.

• PRS-Style Buttons: Retain the familiar SE appearance.

• 10mm Mounting Hole Requirement: Common PRS SE fitting dimension.

• Offset Fixing Screw Arrangement: Designed for compatible original SE tuner footprints.

• Direct-Replacement Design: Straightforward installation on suitable models.

• Faster String Changes: Significantly reduces winding time.

• Fewer String Wraps: Helps minimise unwanted movement around the posts.

• Suitable for Fixed Bridges: Excellent for stoptail-equipped PRS guitars.

• Suitable for Compatible Tremolo Guitars: Useful for regular restringing and performance.

• Ideal for Customisation: Practical upgrade without an obvious visual change.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: Attractive second-hand hardware.

• Original Box Included: Convenient packaging.

Why You'll Love It

The PRS SE Locking Tuners are one of the most useful upgrades available for a compatible PRS SE electric guitar.

They preserve the familiar appearance of standard PRS tuning machines while adding the convenience of a modern locking mechanism.

The greatest benefit is the improvement to the restringing process.

Instead of winding several turns of string around each post, the string is inserted, secured using the locking thumbscrew and brought up to pitch.

This saves time and makes string installation more consistent.

The locking mechanism can also help improve tuning reliability by reducing excess string wraps, although the condition of the nut, bridge and overall guitar setup remains equally important.

Another advantage is the 18:1 gearing.

This allows precise adjustments without requiring large changes in button position, making it particularly useful when tuning carefully before rehearsals, performances or recording.

The Chrome finish gives the tuners an attractive appearance that complements the hardware fitted to many PRS SE instruments.

Most importantly, these are official PRS SE accessories rather than generic replacement machine heads.

For compatible models, they are designed around the existing tuner mounting arrangement, helping make installation more straightforward.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Genuine PRS Replacement Hardware

These tuners are official PRS accessories developed specifically for the SE range. Their dimensions and appearance are intended to match the requirements of many PRS SE electric guitars, offering a practical alternative to generic locking tuners that may require additional drilling or other modifications.

Top-Operated String Locking

The locking mechanism is located at the top of each tuning post. A knurled thumbscrew allows the player to secure the guitar string directly within the post, providing a simple and effective method of installation. This system reduces the need to wind several turns of string around the post.

Faster Restringing

One of the most useful features of locking tuners is the ability to replace strings quickly. Once the string has been threaded through the post, the locking mechanism holds it securely while the string is brought to pitch. This makes the set particularly appealing for guitarists who perform regularly or change strings frequently.

Precise 18:1 Gear Ratio

The 18:1 gearing provides fine control over the tuning post's movement. Each complete rotation of the post requires eighteen rotations of the tuner button, allowing small pitch corrections to be made with greater precision. This is useful during rehearsals, recording and everyday tuning.

Unplated Brass String Posts

The PRS SE locking tuner design features unplated brass string posts. These provide the connection between the string and the locking mechanism while maintaining the company's familiar tuner construction.

Traditional Enclosed Housing

The enclosed housings give the machine heads a clean, professional appearance while protecting the internal gearing. Their styling closely complements the standard tuners fitted to many PRS SE instruments.

Attractive Chrome Finish

The Chrome finish provides a classic appearance suitable for a wide range of PRS guitars. It works particularly well with instruments featuring chrome bridges, pickup covers and other matching hardware.

Three-Per-Side Layout

The six-piece set is arranged with three tuners for the bass-string side and three for the treble-string side of a conventional PRS headstock. This makes it suitable for many compatible PRS SE models using the familiar 3+3 configuration.

Direct Replacement for Compatible SE Tuners

PRS developed these tuners as a direct replacement for its standard PRS-designed SE tuning machines. On suitable instruments, the existing mounting arrangement can be reused without drilling additional holes. Models using vintage-style tuners may have a different screw footprint, so compatibility should be checked before installation.

Suitable for Stoptail Guitars

The locking system is useful on fixed-bridge instruments such as compatible PRS SE single-cut and double-cut models. It makes restringing straightforward and provides secure string attachment without requiring the multiple wraps associated with conventional tuners.

Useful for Tremolo-Equipped Guitars

Locking tuners are also appealing for guitars equipped with conventional tremolo systems. Reducing string wraps removes one possible source of tuning movement, although proper nut lubrication, bridge setup and string installation remain important for stable performance.

Retains the PRS Aesthetic

Unlike some aftermarket tuners with substantially different housings or buttons, the official SE locking tuners are designed to maintain the visual character of PRS instruments. They offer an upgraded function while preserving a cohesive appearance.

Excellent for Working Musicians

For guitarists regularly performing, rehearsing or recording, dependable hardware and efficient string changes are valuable. The PRS SE locking tuner design combines straightforward operation with the precision expected from a dedicated guitar hardware upgrade.

Who Is It For?

PRS SE Owners: Upgrade compatible factory tuning machines.

Gigging Guitarists: Faster string changes between rehearsals and performances.

Recording Musicians: Precise adjustments when tuning between takes.

PRS Custom 24 Players: A popular upgrade where the original tuner mounting dimensions match.

PRS SE Standard Players: A practical locking upgrade for compatible instruments.

Guitar Technicians: Genuine PRS hardware for suitable replacements.

Players with Tremolo-Equipped Guitars: Reduce excess string wraps as part of a correctly maintained tuning system.

Guitar Customisation Enthusiasts: Improve functionality without significantly altering the instrument's appearance.

Compatibility & Applications

The PRS SE Locking Tuners are designed primarily for PRS SE electric guitars fitted with the company's standard PRS-designed tuning machines.

They are a direct-replacement option for many compatible SE models, including selected SE Custom and SE Standard instruments.

However, they are not a universal fit for every PRS guitar.

Some instruments, including models equipped with vintage-style tuning machines, use a different mounting screw arrangement.

Before installation, check the headstock hole diameter, tuner configuration, fixing screw position and available clearance.

The mounting arrangement should be compared directly with the existing tuners, especially on older SE guitars and models with non-standard hardware.

How It Compares

PRS SE Locking Tuners vs Standard PRS SE Tuners

Standard PRS SE tuners use a conventional string post, requiring the player to secure each string using an appropriate winding technique.

The locking version introduces a top-operated string clamp, reducing the number of wraps needed and making string changes quicker.

Both retain the familiar PRS styling.

PRS SE Locking Tuners vs PRS Phase II Locking Tuners

PRS Phase II locking tuners are primarily designed for compatible USA-made PRS guitars.

Although they can be fitted to certain SE instruments, they may require additional drilling because their mounting arrangement differs.

The official PRS SE Locking Tuners are specifically designed as a more straightforward replacement for compatible stock SE machine heads.

PRS SE Locking Tuners vs Gotoh MG-T

Gotoh MG-T machine heads use a rear-operated locking mechanism.

The PRS SE locking design uses top-mounted thumbscrews instead.

Both provide secure string locking and quicker restringing, but their housing dimensions and mounting arrangements differ.

For a compatible SE guitar, the official PRS tuners may provide the simpler installation.

PRS SE Locking Tuners vs Generic Locking Tuners

Generic locking tuners can offer excellent performance, but their fixing positions and post dimensions may not match the original hardware.

The official PRS SE design provides greater confidence when upgrading a compatible instrument because it is intended to replace the standard PRS-designed SE tuners.

PRS Brand Heritage

Paul Reed Smith founded PRS Guitars in 1985, establishing a company recognised for its distinctive electric guitar designs, premium craftsmanship and innovative hardware.

The PRS SE Series was introduced in 2001 to make the company's design philosophy available to a broader range of musicians.

Over time, the SE range has developed into an extensive collection of electric guitars, basses and acoustic instruments used by guitarists around the world.

PRS has also developed its own hardware and accessories, including bridges, tuning machines and replacement components.

The official PRS SE Locking Tuners reflect the company's commitment to practical upgrades, offering modern string-locking convenience while retaining the familiar appearance and fitting arrangement of many SE instruments.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Locking Guitar Tuning Machines
Brand	PRS – Paul Reed Smith
Model	SE Locking Tuners
Finish	Chrome
Manufacturer Part Number	106297::C:003
Configuration	3L / 3R
Number of Tuners	6
Intended Instruments	Compatible PRS SE Electric Guitars
Locking System	Top-Operated
Locking Mechanism	Knurled Thumbscrew
Gear Ratio	18:1
String Posts	Unplated Brass
Tuner Housing	Enclosed
Headstock Hole Requirement	10mm
Mounting Screw	Offset Fixing Arrangement
Installation	Direct Replacement for Compatible PRS-Designed SE Tuners
Finish Colour	Chrome
Condition	Very Good – Pre-Owned
Packaging	Original Box Included

Installation & Fitting Requirements

The PRS SE Locking Tuners are designed to replace conventional PRS-designed tuning machines on compatible SE electric guitars.

On suitable instruments, installation can be completed using the existing headstock mounting layout.

Before fitting, verify the hole diameter, screw positions and compatibility with the guitar's original tuner design.

Models equipped with vintage-style tuning machines can require a different mounting arrangement.

For restringing, pass the string through the tuner post, tighten the top locking thumbscrew and bring the string up to pitch.

Avoid overtightening the locking mechanism.

If modifications to the headstock are required, installation by an experienced guitar technician is recommended.

No batteries, power supply or electrical connections are required.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

The PRS SE Locking Tuners in Chrome are an excellent practical upgrade for players who want to improve restringing convenience while retaining the familiar appearance of their PRS guitar.

Their top-operated locking mechanism is straightforward to use, and the 18:1 gearing offers precise tuning adjustment.

The official PRS design is a particular advantage for owners of compatible SE instruments because it is intended to replace the standard PRS-designed machine heads.

The Chrome finish also complements the appearance of many PRS guitars without introducing noticeably different hardware styling.

This particular set is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition and comes complete with its original box.

Best Suited For: PRS SE owners, gigging musicians, recording guitarists and players upgrading conventional machine heads.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Factory-fitted non-locking PRS SE tuners.

Most Commonly Paired With: Compatible PRS SE Custom 24, SE Standard and other SE guitars equipped with the standard PRS-designed tuner arrangement.

Our Tip: During restringing, pull the string through the post with minimal slack, tighten the locking thumbscrew and tune the string to pitch. Multiple turns around the post are unnecessary.

Showroom Advice: The most important consideration is confirming the fitting pattern. PRS SE instruments with vintage-style tuners may not accept this set as a direct replacement, so compare the mounting screw positions before purchase.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned set of PRS SE Locking Tuners from Fair Deal Music provides an attractive opportunity to upgrade a compatible instrument using genuine PRS hardware.

Our experienced team understands the importance of clear condition descriptions and accurate compatibility information when purchasing replacement guitar components.

This set is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition and comes complete with its original box.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This is a pre-owned guitar hardware accessory, with its condition and included packaging detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, with available UK delivery and showroom collection options provided at checkout.

Please check compatibility before installation, particularly if your instrument has vintage-style tuning machines.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Based in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music specialises in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and professional audio equipment.

Our experienced team of musicians provides knowledgeable advice and personal service, helping customers find suitable instruments, parts and equipment.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, amplifiers and effects pedals.

Your existing equipment could help towards the cost of another instrument or accessory from our collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition are these PRS SE Locking Tuners in?

They are presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Are they supplied with the original box?

Yes. The original box is included.

How many tuners are in the set?

Six.

What is the tuner configuration?

Three left and three right.

What finish do they have?

Chrome.

Are these genuine PRS tuners?

Yes. They are PRS SE locking tuning machines.

What is the manufacturer's part number?

106297::C:003 for the Chrome set of six.

What is the locking mechanism?

A top-operated system using individual knurled thumbscrews.

How does the locking system work?

The string passes through the tuning post and is secured by tightening the locking thumbscrew.

Do locking tuners make string changes quicker?

Yes. They reduce the need for multiple string wraps.

What gear ratio do they use?

18:1.

What material are the string posts?

Unplated brass.

What size mounting holes do they require?

10mm.

Will they fit a PRS SE Custom 24?

They are designed to fit compatible SE models using the standard PRS-designed tuner mounting arrangement.

Will they fit a PRS SE Standard 24?

They may be a direct replacement where the guitar has the compatible factory tuner arrangement.

Will they fit a PRS SE 245?

Compatibility depends on the exact model year and original tuner design. Check the mounting screw arrangement before purchase.

Will they fit a PRS SE McCarty 594?

They should not be assumed to fit directly, as vintage-style tuner footprints can differ.

Will they fit a PRS SE Zach Myers?

This set is not generally a direct replacement for models using different vintage-style tuning machines.

Will they fit a PRS SE Paul's Guitar?

Do not assume direct compatibility. Check the original hardware and mounting pattern.

Will they fit an American-made PRS Core guitar?

They are primarily designed for compatible PRS SE instruments. Core guitars may require a different tuner model.

Do they need additional drilling?

Not when replacing standard PRS-designed SE tuners on a compatible guitar. Other models may require modifications.

Can these be installed on a guitar with a tremolo?

Yes, provided the guitar's headstock and mounting arrangement are compatible.

Will they stop a guitar going out of tune?

They can reduce string movement around the posts, but tuning stability also depends on the nut, bridge, strings and guitar setup.

Are locking tuners useful on fixed-bridge guitars?

Yes. Faster string changes are beneficial regardless of bridge type.

Do they require a battery?

No.

Are they powered electronically?

No. They are mechanical guitar tuning machines.

Can I install them myself?

Installation can be straightforward on compatible guitars, but consult a qualified technician if you are unsure about the fitting requirements.

Are mounting screws and washers included?

The manufacturer's new retail set normally includes mounting hardware, but the individual components supplied with this pre-owned set have not been confirmed.

Will these change my guitar's sound?

Their primary benefits are tuning control, string security and restringing convenience, rather than a guaranteed tonal change.

Are these the same as PRS Phase II locking tuners?

No. They are a separate SE-specific design with a different intended mounting arrangement.

Can I return them if they do not fit?

Returns are subject to Fair Deal Music's current terms and applicable consumer rights. Check compatibility before installing or modifying any hardware.