Unlike the Pro Series, the Standard series Chapman ML3 come fitted with the company’s own brand machine heads. They share the same 18:1 ratio as the Hipshot Grip-Lock Open tuners but are non-locking or “Classic”. A simple way then to upgrade these Standard series guitars is to stick a set of locking tuners on them.

No, this upgrade alone will not turn your Standard into a Pro series guitar. The quality control, parts and materials used will always be superior on the top end lines. What it will do is give your instrument all of the benefits locking tuners offer whilst also adding that extra little bit of quality that these Standard models will possibly lack.

From what I’ve heard though, the Standard Series are meant to be great for the money. And I do rather like the look of these ML3 Modern guitars! What’s your thoughts on them?