Guitar action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lowering the action can make the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners, and can improve the overall sound of the instrument.
There are two main ways to lower the action on a guitar: by adjusting the truss rod or by sanding down the saddle. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar, and adjusting it can change the curvature of the neck. Sanding down the saddle, which is the small piece of bone or plastic that sits under the strings at the bridge, can also lower the action.
It is important to note that lowering the action too much can cause problems, such as fret buzz or intonation issues. Therefore, it is best to make small adjustments and then test the guitar to see how it sounds and plays. With a little patience, you can lower the action on your guitar and improve its playability and sound.
1. Truss rod adjustment
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar, and adjusting it can change the curvature of the neck. This, in turn, can lower the action of the guitar, making it easier to play.
-
Tightening the truss rod
Tightening the truss rod will bow the neck forward, which will raise the action of the guitar. This is the opposite of what we want to do, so we will need to loosen the truss rod to lower the action. -
Loosening the truss rod
Loosening the truss rod will bow the neck backward, which will lower the action of the guitar. This is what we want to do, but we need to be careful not to loosen the truss rod too much, as this can cause other problems. -
How much should I loosen the truss rod?
The amount that you need to loosen the truss rod will vary depending on the guitar. It is best to start by loosening the truss rod a quarter of a turn and then checking the action. You can continue to loosen the truss rod in small increments until you reach the desired action. -
Testing the action
Once you have loosened the truss rod, you need to test the action to make sure that it is correct. The action should be low enough that the strings are easy to press down, but not so low that the strings buzz against the frets.
Truss rod adjustments are a relatively simple way to lower the action on your guitar. However, it is important to be careful not to over-adjust the truss rod, as this can cause other problems. If you are not comfortable making truss rod adjustments yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
2. Saddle sanding
Saddle sanding is a method of lowering the action on a guitar by sanding down the saddle, which is the small piece of bone or plastic that sits under the strings at the bridge. This can be a more precise way to lower the action than adjusting the truss rod, as it allows you to lower the action at the bridge without affecting the neck relief.
-
How to sand the saddle
To sand the saddle, you will need to remove the strings from the guitar and then use a fine-grit sandpaper to sand the bottom of the saddle. Be careful not to sand too much, as this can cause the saddle to become too low and cause the strings to buzz against the frets. -
Testing the action
Once you have sanded the saddle, you need to test the action to make sure that it is correct. The action should be low enough that the strings are easy to press down, but not so low that the strings buzz against the frets. -
Advantages of saddle sanding
Saddle sanding is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to lower the action on your guitar. It is also a more precise way to lower the action than adjusting the truss rod, as it allows you to lower the action at the bridge without affecting the neck relief. -
Disadvantages of saddle sanding
Saddle sanding can be a permanent modification to your guitar, so it is important to be sure that you want to lower the action before you start sanding. If you are not comfortable sanding the saddle yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
Saddle sanding is a versatile and effective way to lower the action on your guitar. It is important to be careful not to sand too much, as this can cause problems. If you are not comfortable sanding the saddle yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
3. Measuring the action
Measuring the action of your guitar is an important step in the process of lowering the action. The action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard, and it can affect the playability and sound of your guitar. If the action is too high, the strings will be difficult to press down, and the guitar will be more difficult to play. If the action is too low, the strings will buzz against the frets, which will produce a buzzing sound.
-
How to measure the action
There are two main ways to measure the action of your guitar:-
Using a feeler gauge
A feeler gauge is a thin, metal blade that can be used to measure the distance between the strings and the frets. To use a feeler gauge, place the feeler gauge between the string and the fret at the 12th fret. The feeler gauge should fit snugly between the string and the fret, but it should not be so tight that it bends the string. -
Using a ruler
You can also use a ruler to measure the action of your guitar. To do this, place the ruler on the fretboard so that the 0 mark is at the 12th fret. Then, measure the distance from the top of the ruler to the bottom of the string. This will give you the action measurement.
-
Using a feeler gauge
-
What is the ideal action height?
The ideal action height will vary depending on your playing style and the type of guitar you are playing. However, a good starting point is to set the action so that there is a gap of about 0.010 inches between the strings and the frets at the 12th fret. -
How to adjust the action
If the action on your guitar is too high or too low, you can adjust it by following the steps outlined in the sections above.
Measuring the action of your guitar is an important step in the process of lowering the action. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that the action on your guitar is set to the correct height, which will improve the playability and sound of your guitar.
4. Testing and adjusting
Testing and adjusting are crucial steps in the process of lowering the action on your guitar. By testing the action and making small adjustments, you can ensure that the action is set to the correct height, which will improve the playability and sound of your guitar.
-
Checking the action
The first step is to check the action of your guitar. You can do this by measuring the distance between the strings and the frets at the 12th fret. The ideal action height will vary depending on your playing style and the type of guitar you are playing, but a good starting point is to set the action so that there is a gap of about 0.010 inches between the strings and the frets. -
Making small adjustments
Once you have checked the action, you can start making small adjustments to lower the action. You can do this by adjusting the truss rod or by sanding down the saddle. If you are not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician. -
Testing the action after each adjustment
After you have made an adjustment, be sure to test the action again. This will help you to ensure that the action is set to the correct height and that the guitar is playing properly. -
Repeating the process until the action is correct
Continue to test the action and make small adjustments until the action is set to the correct height. Once the action is correct, you will be able to enjoy playing your guitar more easily and with better sound.
Testing and adjusting are important steps in the process of lowering the action on your guitar. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that the action on your guitar is set to the correct height, which will improve the playability and sound of your guitar.
FAQs
Action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard, and it can significantly impact the playability and sound of a guitar. Lowering the action can make your guitar easier to play, especially if you have small hands or are new to playing. Here are answers to some common questions about how to lower action on guitar:
Question 1: What are the two main ways to lower the action on a guitar?
There are two primary methods for lowering the action on a guitar:
- Adjusting the truss rod
- Sanding down the saddle
Question 2: How do I know if my guitar’s action is too high?
There are a few signs that indicate your guitar’s action may be too high:
- The strings are difficult to press down, especially when fretting notes higher up the neck.
- You experience fret buzz, which is a rattling sound that occurs when the strings vibrate against the frets.
- The guitar may feel uncomfortable to play, causing fatigue in your fingers and hands.
Question 3: How much should I lower the action on my guitar?
The optimal action height varies depending on personal preference, playing style, and the type of guitar. However, a good starting point is to aim for a gap of approximately 0.010 inches (0.25 millimeters) between the strings and the 12th fret when the strings are fretted. Question 4: Can I lower the action on my guitar myself?
While it’s possible to lower the action on your guitar yourself, it requires some technical knowledge and precision. If you’re not comfortable making these adjustments, it’s advisable to take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician to ensure the job is done correctly. Question 5: What are the benefits of lowering the action on my guitar?
Lowering the action on your guitar can provide several benefits:
- Improved playability, making it easier to press down on the strings and fret notes.
- Reduced fret buzz, resulting in a cleaner and more resonant sound.
- Enhanced comfort, especially during extended playing sessions.
Question 6: What are some potential risks of lowering the action too much?
Lowering the action too much can lead to certain issues:
- Reduced sustain, as the strings may not vibrate as freely.
- Increased risk of fret buzz, particularly when playing with a heavy touch or using thicker strings.
- Potential damage to the guitar’s neck or bridge if adjustments are made improperly.
By carefully following the recommended steps and seeking professional assistance if needed, you can successfully lower the action on your guitar and enjoy the benefits of improved playability and sound.
Tips for Lowering Action on Guitar
Lowering the action on your guitar can make it easier to play and improve its sound. Here are some tips to help you do it safely and effectively:
Tip 1: Start by measuring the action. This will give you a baseline to compare to as you make adjustments.
Tip 2: Loosen the truss rod a quarter turn at a time. This will lower the action by reducing the tension on the neck.
Tip 3: Sand the bottom of the saddle. This will lower the action at the bridge.
Tip 4: Test the action after each adjustment. This will help you avoid over-adjusting and causing problems.
Tip 5: If you’re not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician. They will be able to lower the action safely and professionally.
Summary: By following these tips, you can lower the action on your guitar safely and effectively. This will make your guitar easier to play and improve its sound.
Conclusion
Lowering the action on your guitar can make it easier to play and improve its sound. It is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools. However, it is important to note that lowering the action too much can cause problems, so it is best to start by making small adjustments and then testing the guitar to see how it sounds and plays.
If you are not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician. They will be able to lower the action safely and professionally.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can lower the action on your guitar and improve its playability and sound. This will make playing guitar more enjoyable and rewarding.
