Gamma ELS / Midrange machine shopping question

FloridaMan

New User
(I read the sticky i promise)

I'm looking for a <2k budget machine and i definitely want constant pull electric, and a six point mount. im close to pulling the trigger on the gamma x-els/progression-els. I was wondering how good the clamps/mounts on this machine are relative to the other machines are in this price range.

Im wondering this because one opinion i read here that seemed reasonable was "just get the machine with the best mount/clamps/other features possible and add a wise" which seemed like a very reasonable position.

Im currently using a gamma x2 dropweight which i got to see if i would enjoy stringing (i do!)
 

fritzhimself

Professional
I'm looking for a <2k budget machine and i definitely want constant pull electric, and a six point mount. im close to pulling the trigger on the gamma x-els/progression-els. I was wondering how good the clamps/mounts on this machine are relative to the other machines are in this price range.

We have had one of the predecessor models in our clubhouse for a good 10 years and it still works. That's why I can offer you the new model without remorse. You will have a lot of fun with this machine. The Gripper is not linear, but does not damage the strings. With this machine you can't do anything wrong. Good decision.
 

esgee48

G.O.A.T.
Or if you have the space, get a used NEOS 1000 [4 point mount or 2 point mount] because those glide bar clamps do not budge. The crank tensioner can be used as a backup or you can use this as your primary machine. Get a WISE when ready.

Ain't nuthing wrong with an ELS either though the NEOS 1000 clamps are better IMO.
 

struggle

Legend
I second the Neos/1500/6004 and a WISE (when ready).

Personally, having used them all, I'd go with the 1500. I'm fine with
my 6004 and also like the Neos 1000 (it's really the most simple to use).
 

Rabbit

G.O.A.T.
@struggle is right, as good as the 1000 is, the 1500 corrects the few things I didn't like about it. Problem is, unless TM can get them manufactured, there no longer available new
 

fuzz nation

G.O.A.T.
(I read the sticky i promise)

I'm looking for a <2k budget machine and i definitely want constant pull electric, and a six point mount. im close to pulling the trigger on the gamma x-els/progression-els. I was wondering how good the clamps/mounts on this machine are relative to the other machines are in this price range.

Im wondering this because one opinion i read here that seemed reasonable was "just get the machine with the best mount/clamps/other features possible and add a wise" which seemed like a very reasonable position.

Im currently using a gamma x2 dropweight which i got to see if i would enjoy stringing (i do!)

I've had a Prog II ELS for over six years and I've had absolutely zero issues with this machine. My first machine was a Laserfibre (US version of Stringway) table-top drop weight machine with floating clamps and essentially two-point mounting. When that broke down, my boss at the club where I work summers had me using his Gamma 5800 ELS. That gave me a really good look at that sort of machine and the Prog II ELS was an easy decision for my own "next rig". The table top layout was exactly what I wanted.

The clamps on the Gamma 5800 are a little bigger/wider than the ones on my Prog II. While those "premium" clamps on the 5800 might have the advantage of physically holding a slightly longer portion of string, the smaller clamps on the Prog II have been great for me. No downside and I actually like how the more compact clamping jaws on my machine can more easily fit into tight spots. Both are good strong metal builds that work great.

I have absolutely nothing against the Wise tensioners. Some of our pals here have done fine with them and I've never had a chance to try one myself. My Gamma has been nothing but right for me and I also like having their A+ customer service on standby, but I've never needed to make a single call. A buddy of mine got one of these on my recommendation and he's become a pretty busy stringer. He's also had zero issues with his machine.
 
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