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Description

The Down Tension Bar by Towner

The TOWNER Down Tension Bar is an innovative guitar accessory designed to provide the necessary string break angle when using a floating vibrato system without permanently modifying the instrument. Precision-machined from high-quality materials, it enhances tuning stability while maintaining smooth vibrato performance and improved string feel. Its adjustable height allows players to fine-tune the string tension and response to suit their playing style. The Down Tension Bar is easy to install using existing hardware, making it an excellent upgrade for players seeking improved performance while preserving their guitar's originality.

Specs:

• Product Type: Down tension bar for guitars
• Compatible With: TOWNER Vibrato System and select Bigsby® vibrato installations
• Material: Precision-machined aluminum and stainless steel components
• Height: Adjustable
• Installation: No permanent modifications required
• Mounting: Uses existing tailpiece stud locations (compatible models)
• Function: Increases string break angle over the bridge
• Benefits: Improved tuning stability, smoother vibrato operation, and optimized string tension
• Hardware: Mounting hardware included
• Finish: Available in multiple finishes (depending on model)
• Country of Manufacture: USA

Nick in the States

Nick in the States

Bigsby on a Gibson ES-335 stop tail copy (Harley Benton E-35) with Towner Down Tension Bar

Video thumbnail for Bigsby on a Gibson ES-335 stop tail copy (Harley Benton E-35) with Towner Down Tension Bar by Nick in the States

Bigsby on a Gibson ES-335 stop tail copy (Harley Benton E-35) with Towner Down Tension Bar

Nick in the States

Nick in the States

Video thumbnail for Summer NAMM '13 - Towner USA Down Tension Bar and V.BLOCK by Premier Guitar

Summer NAMM '13 - Towner USA Down Tension Bar and V.BLOCK

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Gibson SG Classic with Bigsby B3 & Towner Down Tension Bar by Nick in the States

Gibson SG Classic with Bigsby B3 & Towner Down Tension Bar

Nick in the States

Nick in the States

Video thumbnail for BIGSBY B3 installed with TOWNER DOWN TENSION BAR Installed on a Gibson ES-335 by Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

BIGSBY B3 installed with TOWNER DOWN TENSION BAR Installed on a Gibson ES-335

Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

Video thumbnail for BIGSBY B3 with a TOWNER DOWN TENSION BAR & HINGE PLATE ADAPTOR on a Reissue 1961 Gibson SG by Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

BIGSBY B3 with a TOWNER DOWN TENSION BAR & HINGE PLATE ADAPTOR on a Reissue 1961 Gibson SG

Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

Bigsby Retrofit Solutions by TOWNER

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Towner Down Tension Bar Review - The Guitar Magazine | Guitar.com

guitar.com

A clever, low-drama fix for anyone wanting Bigsby feel on a stop-tail guitar without drilling into the top. Guitar.com praises the Towner Down Tension Bar for doing exactly what it promises: keeping strings seated, preserving smooth Bigsby action, and adding adjustable downforce via the existing tailpiece studs. Installation is described as easy, the look “understated and elegant,” and the roller design avoids extra friction. The main caveat is that it’s a niche solution—best suited to specific Bigsby retrofit scenarios—and compatibility depends on your stud dimensions. It also doesn’t completely avoid new holes in every setup unless you buy the adaptor version. Still, for players trying to sidestep a more invasive vibrato install, this is framed as an ingenious, highly recommended bit of hardware.

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