How do Scruggs/Keith banjo D-tuners work?

Question

I've been watching these insane videos of banjo players that use the tuning pegs and other sorts of unique tuners to play in a fashion similar to a telecaster with a B-bender. Can anyone just explain what's going on? Here's a video that I'm specifically curious about: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-SXk40DQzA.

Answer 1

Your link is no good.



Yes, D-tuners are a similar concept to a B-bender. Scruggs/Keith tuners allow you to d-tune that string to a precise pitch and then re-tune to the correct pitch. They are actually more precise than a B-bender, which relies on the player to pull on the strap button to change the pitch. The Scruggs tuners use set screws.



http://www.folkofthewood.com/page2379.htm

Answer 2

Keith Banjo Tuners

Answer 3

Scruggs Tuners

Answer 4

Dueling Banjos