Patent ID: 8252999

Claim:
A pitch changing device for musical instrument, said instrument having a body, multiple substantially parallel strings defining a substantially common string plane, one end of the major span of said strings defining a bridge where said device comprises in combination: a first member rotatable about a main axis fixed relative to a base, multiple string anchors located fixedly or adjustably with respect to said first member, multiple string guides associated adjustably with said first member, each guide configured to engage a string and defining a radius from said main axis of engagement between said string and said first member, positioner or positioners enabling adjustment of the position of said string guides relative to said first member, multiple string bearings, each bearing fixed or adjustable from a home position relative to said base, and configured to engage a string at a point between said string's engagement with a guide and said major span of said string, where each of at least two said guides is substantially constrained by its associated positioner to a path approximating an arc having an axis substantially parallel to said main axis and located relative to said first member in the area generally between said main axis and the string bearing associated with said guide.