String tension with trem system

[gwEm]

Is it my imagination or do strats with vintage trem systems have more string tension than hardtails?

I feel like something is going on there.

[Kiichi]

Off the top of my head I could not think why. Since tension should be the same for any given set of strings in the same tuning on both system cause it is needed for that pitch. Scale should also not be different on fenders. It is also not running any longer as far as I know.

In my experience the only difference between perceived string tension between trem and hardtail is when bending. I donīt exactly recall what it was like since I did not compare for quite a while, but I seem to think that bending on trem actually seemed softer to me.

[Telerocker]

Is it my imagination or do strats with vintage trem systems have more string tension than hardtails?

I feel like something is going on there.

My Fender American Series telecasters plays more smooth and strings are easier to bend than on my USA standard HSS-stratocaster, which has the standard vintagestyle trem. I have to work harder on the strat than on the tele somehow. Same strings though:  EB regular slinky's (0.10). Both set up by the same tech.

[Dave Sloven]

Steeper break angle over the bridge?

[gwEm]

Telerocker: yes, that's exactly the feeling I have. Glad someone else has it too! Agree, it doesn't seem to make much sense.

[JacksonRR]

Steeper break angle over the bridge?

That would be my first guess as well. Really any point of contact and how that's acting. It could be sensing a sharper string angle(better anchor on the point of contact) or the minute difference in travel that has to be compensated for when bending with a trem. Sometimes, I feel like bends on a trem feel more difficult until I get to the top of the bend and in that portion, it feels squishier. It can be a tough cookie as the more you play, the more efficient your movements and less effort is required, freeing up your mind to sense the smaller details. Ernie Ball strings might not be the best for this comparison. According to Curt Mangan, their wire supply comes from various manufacturers, depending on price at any given point in time. Can't imagine the tolerances are ultra-tight if you're operating like that.