Have you ever picked up your guitar only to find that the strings are buzzing or feeling too high? If so, you may need to lower the action on your guitar. The action of a guitar is the height of the strings above the fretboard. When the action is too high, it can make it difficult to play chords and notes cleanly. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to lower the action on your guitar without causing any damage.
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. These include a truss rod wrench, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a set of hex keys. You will also need a ruler or measuring tape to measure the action of your guitar. Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of lowering the action on your guitar. The first step is to loosen the truss rod. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the curvature of the neck. If the neck is too bowed, it can cause the action to be too high. To loosen the truss rod, insert the truss rod wrench into the hole at the headstock of the guitar. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the truss rod. You should only turn the truss rod a quarter turn at a time. Once you have loosened the truss rod, you can move on to the next step.
The next step is to adjust the bridge. The bridge is the part of the guitar that holds the strings in place. It is typically made of metal or plastic. To adjust the bridge, you will need to use a Phillips head screwdriver. Insert the screwdriver into the screw holes on the bridge and turn them counterclockwise to lower the bridge. You should only turn the screws a quarter turn at a time. Once you have lowered the bridge, you can re-tighten the truss rod. Insert the truss rod wrench into the hole at the headstock of the guitar and turn it clockwise to tighten the truss rod. You should only turn the truss rod a quarter turn at a time. Once you have tightened the truss rod, you can re-string your guitar and check the action. If the action is still too high, you can repeat the process until the action is at the desired height.
Understanding String Action
String action, measured in thousandths of an inch (a thousandth is often abbreviated as "thou"), refers to the height of the strings above the frets. Optimal string action allows for clear, buzz-free fretting without hindering the strings’ natural vibration.
Factors Influencing String Action:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Nut | Determines the height of the strings at the first fret. It should be slightly higher than the first fret to prevent string buzz. |
| Bridge | Adjusts the string height at the body end of the guitar. It typically features adjustable saddles that can be raised or lowered to suit the desired action. |
| Truss Rod | Controls the curvature of the neck, which affects string action. Adjusting the truss rod can compensate for changes in neck relief and humidity. |
| Fret Height | The height of the frets can influence action, especially when performing low bends. Taller frets require a higher action to avoid buzzing. |
| String Size | Heavier strings vibrate more and require higher action to prevent fret buzz. |
Adjusting the Truss Rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the curvature of the neck, which in turn affects the action of the strings. To adjust the truss rod, you will need a truss rod wrench.
To tighten the truss rod, turn the wrench clockwise. This will bow the neck forward, which will raise the action of the strings. To loosen the truss rod, turn the wrench counterclockwise. This will bow the neck backward, which will lower the action of the strings.
When adjusting the truss rod, it is important to make small adjustments and then wait for the neck to settle before making further adjustments. If you over-adjust the truss rod, you can damage the neck.
The following table shows how the truss rod adjustment affects the action of the strings:
| Truss Rod Adjustment | Action of the Strings |
|---|---|
| Tighten | Raises the action |
| Loosen | Lowers the action |
If you are not sure how to adjust the truss rod, it is best to consult with a guitar technician.
Adjusting the Bridge
For most guitars, adjusting the bridge is the easiest way to lower the action. The bridge is the part of the guitar that holds the strings in place, usually located near the bottom of the guitar body.
To adjust the bridge, you will need a small wrench or Allen key. The type of wrench or key required will vary depending on the model of guitar. Once you have the right tool, follow these steps:
1. Loosen the bridge screws
Using the wrench or key, loosen the screws that hold the bridge in place. Be careful not to loosen the screws too much, as this could damage the guitar.
2. Adjust the bridge height
Once the screws are loose, you can adjust the height of the bridge. To lower the action, turn the screws clockwise. To raise the action, turn the screws counterclockwise.
3. Measuring the action and fine adjustments
To ensure you fine-tune the action, grab a feeler gauge and measure the gap between the 12th fret and the bottom of the high E string. For electric guitars, aim for a gap of 1.5mm to 2mm, and for acoustic guitars, 2mm to 2.5mm. Adjust the bridge height accordingly to reach your desired measurement and desired playability.
4. Tighten the bridge screws
Once you are satisfied with the action, tighten the bridge screws back into place. Be sure to tighten them evenly to avoid warping the bridge.
| Electric Guitar | Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| 1.5mm – 2mm | 2mm – 2.5mm |
Using a Bridge Saddle Compensator
A bridge saddle compensator is a small, adjustable device that fits under the bridge saddle. It allows you to raise the action of individual strings without affecting the overall height of the bridge.
To use a bridge saddle compensator, first, remove the bridge saddle. Then, place the compensator under the saddle and adjust it to the desired height. Finally, replace the bridge saddle and retune your guitar.
Bridge saddle compensators are a relatively inexpensive and easy way to lower the action on your guitar. They are also adjustable, so you can fine-tune the action to your liking.
Types of Bridge Saddle Compensators
There are two main types of bridge saddle compensators: fixed and adjustable. Fixed compensators are a single piece of material, while adjustable compensators have a screw that allows you to adjust the height of the compensator.
Fixed compensators are less expensive than adjustable compensators, but they are not as versatile. Adjustable compensators allow you to fine-tune the action to your liking, but they can be more difficult to install.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Less expensive Easy to install |
Not as versatile |
| Adjustable | More versatile Allow you to fine-tune the action |
More expensive Can be more difficult to install |
Lowering the Nut Slots
The nut slots are the grooves in the upper edge of the guitar nut where the strings rest. They are responsible for setting the height of the strings at the first fret. To lower the action, you need to file down the nut slots so that the strings are closer to the fretboard. This is a delicate operation, so it’s best to proceed slowly and carefully.
To lower a nut slot, you will need:
- A needle-nosed file
- A small piece of sandpaper
- A flat surface
- A pair of pliers (optional)
Steps:
1. Remove the strings from the guitar.
2. Place the guitar on a flat surface and hold it in place with your left hand.
3. Use the needle-nosed file to gently file down the bottom of the nut slot. File in short, even strokes, and be careful not to over-file.
4. Check the progress of your filing by inserting the string into the slot and pressing down on the first fret. The string should now be slightly lower than the fret.
5. Use the sandpaper to smooth out the filed surface of the nut slot. This will help to ensure that the string does not buzz when you play it.
6. Reinstall the strings and tune the guitar.
Tips:
- If you are unsure about how much to file down the nut slot, start with a small amount and gradually file more as needed.
- Be careful not to file the slot too low, as this can cause the string to buzz on the fretboard.
- If you are having trouble filing the nut slot by hand, you can use a set of nut files. These files are designed specifically for filing nut slots and can make the process much easier.
Inspecting and Lubricating the Nut
The nut is a crucial component located at the beginning of the guitar’s neck, responsible for holding the strings in place. Inspect the nut for any signs of wear or damage. If the slots are too wide or worn, they can cause the strings to rattle and affect intonation. Also, check if the nut is properly seated on the neck. A poorly fit nut can lead to excessive string height.
Once you have inspected the nut, it’s important to lubricate it to reduce friction and improve string stability. Use a specialized guitar lubricant or graphite powder on the nut slots and string contact points. This will help the strings slide smoothly and stay in tune better.
Detailed Steps for Lubricating the Nut:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apply a small amount of lubricant to the nut slots using a Q-tip or toothpick. |
| 2 | Use a soft cloth or tissue paper to gently wipe away any excess lubricant. |
| 3 | Lubricate the string contact points where the strings come into contact with the nut. |
| 4 | Tune the guitar to standard tuning. |
| 5 | Play each string and check for any buzzing or fretting out issues. |
| 6 | Re-lubricate the nut slots and string contact points if necessary to achieve optimal string height and smoothness. |
Setting the String Relief
String relief refers to the amount of curvature or “bow” in the strings between the nut and the bridge. Too little relief can cause fret buzz, while too much relief can make the strings feel loose and floppy. The ideal string relief for most guitars is around 0.010 to 0.020 inches.
To adjust the string relief, you’ll need to use a hex key to turn the truss rod adjustment screw. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar, and it’s used to adjust the amount of bow in the neck.
To increase the string relief (make the strings more bowed), turn the truss rod adjustment screw clockwise. To decrease the string relief (make the strings less bowed), turn the truss rod adjustment screw counterclockwise.
When adjusting the string relief, it’s important to make small adjustments and check the results frequently. If you overtighten the truss rod, you can damage the neck of the guitar.
Caution
If you’re not comfortable adjusting the truss rod yourself, it’s best to take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
| Measurement | Action Measurement at 12th Fret (inches) |
|---|---|
| Very Low | 0.040-0.050 |
| Low | 0.050-0.060 |
| Medium | 0.060-0.070 |
| High | 0.070-0.080 |
| Very High | 0.080+ |
Intonation Correction
Intonation refers to the accuracy of the fretted notes in relation to the open strings. When the action is too high, it becomes more difficult to fret the strings correctly, which can lead to intonation problems.
To correct intonation:
- Tune the guitar to standard tuning.
- Check the intonation at the 12th fret on each string.
- If the note at the 12th fret is sharp, the bridge saddle needs to be moved back.
- If the note at the 12th fret is flat, the bridge saddle needs to be moved forward.
- Use a screwdriver to adjust the bridge saddles accordingly.
- Repeat steps 2-5 until the intonation is correct.
- Once the intonation is set for the 12th fret, check the intonation at other frets to make sure it is consistent across the whole fretboard.
| String | Note at 12th Fret | Intonation Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| E | E | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
| A | A | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
| D | D | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
| G | G | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
| B | B | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
| e | e | Move bridge saddle back if sharp, forward if flat |
Troubleshooting Low String Action
Minor Buzzing
A small amount of buzzing is acceptable, especially on the lower strings. However, if the buzzing is excessive, it can interfere with playability and sound quality. To address minor buzzing, try adjusting the truss rod to create a slight forward bow in the neck. You can also raise the saddle slightly at the fret where the buzzing occurs.
String Rattle
String rattle against the frets occurs when the strings are too low and make contact with the frets. To prevent string rattle, raise the saddle or adjust the truss rod to increase the string height. You can also use a fret file to smooth out any uneven frets that may be causing the rattle.
Fretting Out
Fretting out occurs when the strings are pressed down too hard and come into contact with the frets on either side of the fret being pressed. This can cause the string to buzz or choke. To prevent fretting out, adjust the truss rod to create a slight backbow in the neck. This will reduce the string tension and make it less likely to fret out.
Bridge Too Low
If the bridge is too low, the strings will not have enough clearance over the body of the guitar. This can cause the strings to buzz against the body or the pickup magnets. To raise the bridge, use a screwdriver to adjust the bridge saddles. You can also use shims to raise the entire bridge.
Saddle Too Low
If the saddle is too low, the strings will not have enough height over the frets. This can cause the strings to buzz or fret out. To raise the saddle, use a screwdriver to adjust the saddle height screws. You can also use shims to raise the saddle.
Nut Too Low
If the nut is too low, the strings will not have enough clearance over the nut. This can cause the strings to buzz or fret out at the nut. To raise the nut, use a file to adjust the nut height. You can also use a shim to raise the entire nut.
Truss Rod Too Tight
If the truss rod is too tight, it will cause the neck to bow in and the strings will be too high over the frets. This can make the guitar difficult to play and cause the strings to buzz. To loosen the truss rod, use a wrench to turn the truss rod nut counterclockwise.
Truss Rod Too Loose
If the truss rod is too loose, it will cause the neck to backbow and the strings will be too low over the frets. This can cause the strings to buzz or fret out. To tighten the truss rod, use a wrench to turn the truss rod nut clockwise.
Uneven Frets
Uneven frets can cause the strings to buzz or fret out at certain frets. To level the frets, use a fret file or a fret leveling beam. You can also take the guitar to a luthier to have the frets leveled professionally.
Neck Relief
Neck relief refers to the slight curvature of the guitar neck. Too much or too little neck relief can cause the strings to buzz or fret out. To adjust the neck relief, use a truss rod wrench to turn the truss rod nut clockwise or counterclockwise. Turning the nut clockwise will increase the neck relief, while turning it counterclockwise will decrease the neck relief.
Action Height
Action height refers to the distance between the strings and the frets. The action height should be low enough to allow for comfortable playing, but high enough to prevent buzzing. To adjust the action height, use a screwdriver to adjust the bridge saddles or the nut. Raising the saddles or nut will increase the action height, while lowering them will decrease the action height.
Setting the Truss Rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. Adjusting the truss rod can change the neck relief and the action height. To adjust the truss rod, use a truss rod wrench to turn the truss rod nut. Turning the nut clockwise will tighten the truss rod and decrease the neck relief, while turning it counterclockwise will loosen the truss rod and increase the neck relief.
Setting the Bridge Saddles
The bridge saddles are the small metal pieces that hold the strings in place on the bridge. Adjusting the bridge saddles can change the action height. To adjust the bridge saddles, use a screwdriver to turn the saddle height screws. Turning the screws clockwise will raise the saddle and increase the action height, while turning them counterclockwise will lower the saddle and decrease the action height.
Setting the Nut
The nut is the small piece of bone or plastic that holds the strings in place at the headstock. Adjusting the nut can change the action height. To adjust the nut, use a file to file down the slots for the strings. Filing the slots deeper will lower the nut and decrease the action height, while filing the slots shallower will raise the nut and increase the action height.
1. Adjust the Truss Rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the amount of relief in the neck, which is the amount of curvature that the neck has. If the neck has too much relief, the strings will be too high off the fretboard. If the neck has too little relief, the strings will be too close to the fretboard and will buzz when played.
2. Adjust the Bridge
The bridge is the part of the guitar that holds the strings in place. It can be adjusted to raise or lower the strings. To lower the action, the bridge must be adjusted so that the strings are closer to the fretboard.
3. File the Nut
The nut is the part of the guitar that holds the strings in place at the headstock. If the nut is too high, it can cause the strings to be too high off the fretboard. To lower the action, the nut can be filed down so that the strings are closer to the fretboard.
4. Use Lighter Strings
Lighter strings have less tension than heavier strings. This means that they will vibrate more easily and will be less likely to buzz. If you are having trouble with buzzing, try using lighter strings.
5. Check the Frets
If the frets are worn or damaged, they can cause the strings to buzz. Check the frets and replace any that are worn or damaged.
6. Clean the Guitar
A dirty guitar can cause the strings to buzz. Clean the guitar regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may be causing the strings to buzz.
7. Use a String Lubricant
String lubricant can help to reduce friction between the strings and the fretboard. This can help to prevent buzzing.
8. Use a Guitar Setup Tool
A guitar setup tool can make it easier to adjust the action on your guitar. These tools typically come with a variety of tools that can be used to adjust the truss rod, bridge, and nut.
9. Take Your Guitar to a Professional
If you are not comfortable adjusting the action on your guitar yourself, you can take it to a professional. A professional guitar technician will be able to quickly and easily adjust the action on your guitar.
Tips for Preventing Buzzing and Fretting Out
Buzzing
Buzzing occurs when the strings vibrate against the frets. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- The action is too low.
- The neck is not properly adjusted.
- The frets are worn or damaged.
- The guitar is dirty.
- The strings are too heavy.
Fretting Out
Fretting out occurs when the strings do not fully press down on the frets, causing them to produce a dull or muted sound. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- The action is too high.
- The neck is not properly adjusted.
- The frets are worn or damaged.
- The guitar is dirty.
- The strings are too light.
10. Troubleshooting Tips
If you are experiencing buzzing or fretting out, there are a number of things you can try to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some tips:
- Check the action. The action should be low enough to prevent buzzing, but high enough to prevent fretting out.
- Adjust the neck. The neck should be adjusted so that it has a slight amount of relief.
- Check the frets. The frets should be level and free of wear.
- Clean the guitar. A dirty guitar can cause the strings to buzz or fret out.
- Try different strings. Different strings have different tensions, which can affect the action. If you are experiencing buzzing or fretting out, try using lighter strings.
How To Lower Action On Guitar
The action on a guitar refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. If the action is too high, it can make it difficult to play the guitar, especially for beginners. Conversely, if the action is too low, the strings may buzz against the frets. The ideal action height will vary depending on the guitar and the player’s preferences, but there are a few steps you can take to lower the action if it is too high.
- Adjust the truss rod. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the curvature of the neck, which can affect the action. To adjust the truss rod, you will need a truss rod wrench. Turn the wrench clockwise to tighten the truss rod, which will bow the neck forward and lower the action. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the truss rod, which will bow the neck backward and raise the action.
- Sand the saddle. The saddle is a small piece of bone or plastic that sits under the strings at the bridge. It can be sanded down to lower the action. To do this, you will need a fine-grit sandpaper. Place the sandpaper on a flat surface and rub the saddle back and forth until you have reached the desired height.
- Shims. A shim is any thin piece of material that is used to raise the height of the saddle. This can be a good option if you want to lower the action without sanding the saddle. You can buy pre-cut shims or you can make your own from a piece of cardboard or plastic.
People Also Ask About How To Lower Action On Guitar
How do I know if my guitar action is too high?
There are a few signs that your guitar action is too high. One is if you have to press down hard on the strings to fret them. Another is if the strings buzz against the frets when you play them. You can also measure the action height at the 12th fret. The ideal action height is between 2mm and 3mm. If your action height is higher than this, it may be too high.
Can I lower the action on my guitar myself?
Yes, it is possible to lower the action on your guitar yourself. However, it is important to be careful and to follow the steps carefully. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
How much does it cost to lower the action on a guitar?
The cost of lowering the action on a guitar will vary depending on the guitar and the technician. However, it is typically a relatively inexpensive procedure. You can expect to pay between $20 and $50.
