Guitars have always been the epitome of musicality. With their ability to produce a wide range of sounds, it’s no wonder people of all ages enjoy playing them. The acoustic guitar, in particular, is known for its warm, mellow tone and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, getting the action on your acoustic guitar just right can make a big difference in your playing experience. The action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. If the action is too high, it can make it difficult to fret notes and play chords cleanly. If the action is too low, the strings can buzz against the frets and produce a muted sound. The ideal action height will vary depending on your playing style and personal preference, but there are some general guidelines you can follow to get started.
To lower the action on your acoustic guitar, you will need to 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 slight curvature of the neck from the nut to the bridge. When the truss rod is tightened, it pulls the neck forward, reducing the relief. When the truss rod is loosened, it allows the neck to relax and increase the relief. Find the correct truss rod wrench size for your guitar. If you don’t know the correct size, consult the manufacturer’s website or user manual. Turn the truss rod nut counterclockwise in small increments of 1/4 turn at a time. Ensure that you are turning the nut in the correct direction. Turning it clockwise will tighten the truss rod and increase the relief in the neck, which is the opposite of what you want to do. After each adjustment, retune the guitar and check the action at the 12th fret.
Once you have adjusted the truss rod, you may need to make further adjustments to the saddle or bridge. The saddle is the small piece of bone or plastic that sits under the strings at the bridge. It can be raised or lowered to adjust the action at the bridge. The bridge is the larger piece of wood that supports the strings at the body of the guitar. It can also be adjusted to change the action. Consult the manufacturer’s website or user manual for specific instructions on adjusting the saddle or bridge on your guitar. If you are not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, take your guitar to a qualified technician. They can help you get the action set up perfectly for your playing style.
Tools for Lowering Action
Lowering the action on an acoustic guitar is a delicate process that requires the right tools and techniques. The tools you will need for this task include:
1. Feeler Gauge
A feeler gauge is an essential tool for measuring the action of your guitar strings. It consists of a series of thin metal blades of varying thicknesses. To use a feeler gauge, simply insert the desired thickness blade between the string and the 12th fret. The blade should fit snugly between the string and the fret without causing the string to buzz or touch the fret.
The thickness of the feeler gauge blade you choose will depend on the desired action height. For most acoustic guitars, an action height of around 3/32″ (2.38 mm) at the 12th fret is considered ideal. However, you may prefer a higher or lower action height depending on your personal preferences.
Feeler gauges are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. It is important to select a gauge that is appropriate for the type of guitar you are working on. For example, acoustic guitars typically require a thinner feeler gauge than electric guitars.
Here is a table of recommended feeler gauge thicknesses for different types of guitars:
| Guitar Type | Recommended Feeler Gauge Thickness |
|---|---|
| Acoustic Guitar | 0.006″ to 0.010″ |
| Electric Guitar | 0.012″ to 0.018″ |
Measuring the Action Height
To get an accurate reading of the action height, you’ll need a set of feeler gauges or a digital caliper.
1. Place the feeler gauge or caliper under the 12th fret: Carefully slide the feeler gauge or caliper blade beneath the string at the 12th fret, just behind the fret wire. Apply gentle pressure to ensure it makes full contact with the string without bending it.
2. Measure the distance between the string and the top of the 14th fret: With the feeler gauge or caliper in place, use a ruler to measure the vertical distance between the bottom of the string and the top of the 14th fret. Record the measurement in inches or millimeters.
3. Repeat the measurement for all strings: Measure the action height for each string at the 12th fret. The average of these measurements will give you the overall action height for the guitar.
4. Use a table to record the action height: To keep track of your measurements, create a table with the following columns: String, Frets, Action Height. Fill in the table with the measurements you obtained.
| String | Frets | Action Height |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (E) | 12th | 2.0 mm |
| 2 (B) | 12th | 1.8 mm |
| 3 (G) | 12th | 1.6 mm |
| 4 (D) | 12th | 1.4 mm |
| 5 (A) | 12th | 1.2 mm |
| 6 (E) | 12th | 1.0 mm |
Adjusting the Truss Rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs inside the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the curvature of the neck, which in turn affects the action of the strings. When the truss rod is tightened, it pulls the neck forward, causing the strings to be lower to the fretboard. When the truss rod is loosened, it allows the neck to bow backwards, causing the strings to be higher to the fretboard.
To adjust the truss rod, you will need a truss rod wrench. The type of wrench you need will depend on the type of truss rod your guitar has. Once you have the wrench, follow these steps:
1. Loosen the strings
This will make it easier to adjust the truss rod without damaging the strings.
2. Find the truss rod nut
It is usually located at the headstock or the base of the neck. It may be covered by a plastic or metal plate.
3. Adjust the truss rod
Use the wrench to turn the truss rod nut clockwise to tighten it or counterclockwise to loosen it. Turn the nut in small increments and check the action of the strings after each adjustment. Continue adjusting the truss rod until the strings are at the desired height.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for adjusting the truss rod:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Loosen the strings |
| 2 | Find the truss rod nut |
| 3 | Adjust the truss rod |
Filing the Bridge Saddle
Filing the bridge saddle is a common method to lower the action of an acoustic guitar. The bridge saddle is a small, slotted piece of bone, plastic, or Tusq that sits under the strings at the bridge. Filing the saddle to make it lower will allow the strings to sit closer to the fretboard, resulting in a lower action.
To file the saddle, you will need a few tools: a set of needle files, a set of calipers, and a saddle height gauge. You can also use a sandpaper or Dremel tool if you prefer. First, measure the current height of the saddle using the calipers. Then, decide how much you want to lower the action. A good starting point is to lower the saddle by 1/64 of an inch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing the Bridge Saddle:
- Measure the current height of the saddle and determine the amount you want to lower it.
- Protect the guitar’s finish by placing a piece of masking tape around the saddle.
- Use a needle file to carefully file the bottom of the saddle in small, even strokes.
- Check the height of the saddle frequently using the calipers. File until you reach the desired height.
Once the saddle has been filed to the desired height, reassemble the guitar and check the action. If the action is still too high, you can continue to file the saddle down in small increments until you reach the desired action. Be sure to check the intonation of the guitar after filing the saddle, as it may need to be adjusted.
Shimming the Neck
Shimming the neck is a simple yet effective way to lower the action of an acoustic guitar. It involves inserting a thin, wedge-shaped shim between the neck and body of the guitar at the truss rod end. This raises the neck slightly, thereby lowering the string height at the bridge.
To shim the neck, you will need the following tools and materials:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shim | A thin, wedge-shaped piece of wood or plastic |
| Truss rod wrench | To loosen the truss rod |
| Allen wrench | To remove the truss rod cover |
| Hammer or mallet | To tap the shim into place |
Steps:
- Loosen the truss rod by turning the truss rod nut counterclockwise with the truss rod wrench.
- Remove the truss rod cover using the Allen wrench.
- Insert the shim into the gap between the neck and body, with the narrow end of the shim facing the bridge.
- Tap the shim into place with the hammer or mallet, ensuring that it is seated firmly.
- Reattach the truss rod cover and tighten the truss rod nut by turning it clockwise with the truss rod wrench. Adjust the truss rod to the desired neck relief.
- Tighten the strings and check the action. If necessary, adjust the shim thickness or truss rod tension to achieve the desired action height.
Note: It is important to shim the neck carefully to avoid damaging the guitar. Use a shim of the appropriate thickness and do not overtighten the truss rod. It is also a good idea to have the guitar professionally set up after shimming to ensure optimal playability.
Buffing and Polishing the Fretboard
Over time, your guitar’s fretboard can accumulate dirt, grime, and wear. This can not only make your guitar look less attractive, but it can also make it more difficult to play. Buffing and polishing the fretboard can restore its original beauty and improve its playability.
To buff and polish your fretboard, you will need the following materials:
- A soft cloth
- A mild cleaning solution
- A fretboard cleaner and conditioner
- A polishing compound
- A microfibre cloth
**Steps:**
- Prepare the fretboard: Remove the strings from the guitar. Clean the fretboard with a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution. Allow the fretboard to dry completely before proceeding.
- Apply fretboard cleaner and conditioner: Apply a small amount of fretboard cleaner and conditioner to the fretboard. Use a soft cloth to rub the cleaner and conditioner into the wood in circular motions. Allow the cleaner and conditioner to soak into the wood for 15-20 minutes.
- Buff the fretboard: Using a microfibre cloth, buff the fretboard in circular motions. This will remove any excess cleaner and conditioner and help to bring out the wood’s natural shine.
- Apply polishing compound: Apply a small amount of polishing compound to the fretboard. Use a soft cloth to rub the polishing compound into the wood in circular motions. Allow the polishing compound to dry for 15-20 minutes.
- Buff the fretboard (again): Using a microfibre cloth, buff the fretboard in circular motions. This will remove any excess polishing compound and help to create a high-gloss finish.
- Clean the fretboard: Use a soft cloth dampened with a mild cleaning solution to clean the fretboard. Remove any remaining polishing compound or dirt.
- Condition the fretboard (optional): To protect the fretboard and keep it looking its best, you can condition it with a guitar fretboard oil or lemon oil. Apply a small amount of oil to the fretboard and rub it in with a soft cloth. Allow the oil to soak into the wood overnight before re-stringing the guitar.
Resetting the Bridge
Resetting the bridge involves removing the bridge from the guitar top and reattaching it in a new position. This is a more involved process than adjusting the truss rod or saddle, so it’s important to proceed with caution.
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Remove the strings. Loosen the strings until they are slack, then remove them from the guitar.
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Heat the bridge. Use a heat gun or hairdryer to heat the bridge until the glue begins to soften. This will make it easier to remove.
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Remove the bridge. Carefully pry the bridge off the guitar top using a putty knife or similar tool. Be careful not to damage the guitar top or bridge.
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Clean the bridge and guitar top. Remove any old glue residue from the bridge and guitar top using a clean cloth and a suitable solvent.
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Apply new glue. Apply a thin layer of wood glue to the bridge and guitar top. Make sure to align the bridge carefully before pressing it into place.
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Clamp the bridge. Use clamps to hold the bridge firmly in place while the glue dries. Leave the clamps on for at least 24 hours.
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Drill new pilot holes. Once the glue has dried, drill new pilot holes for the bridge pins. Make sure the holes are aligned with the bridge pins and are deep enough to accommodate the pins.
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Install the bridge pins. Insert the bridge pins into the pilot holes and tap them in with a hammer. Make sure the pins are seated properly.
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Reinstall the strings. Reinstall the strings on the guitar and tune it to pitch. Check the action of the guitar and make any necessary adjustments.
Sanding the Saddle
This is a more advanced technique that involves using fine-grit sandpaper to gradually remove material from the bottom of the saddle. Start with a high grit (e.g., 400) and work your way down to a finer grit (e.g., 1000) as you sand. Be extremely careful not to sand too much, as this can permanently alter the sound and intonation of the guitar.
Recutting the Nut Slots
If the nut slots are too high, you can use a nut file to carefully recut them. This requires precision and a steady hand, as any mistakes can damage the nut and require it to be replaced. Start by filing the slots slightly lower than the desired height, then gradually increase the depth until the action is correct.
Using a Radius Gauge
Using a radius gauge (a tool that measures the curvature of the fretboard) ensures that the nut slots and saddle are cut to the same radius as the fretboard. This helps to prevent buzzing or fretting out and improves the overall playability of the guitar.
Checking the Neck Relief
The neck relief is a slight curvature in the neck that allows the strings to vibrate freely without buzzing. Checking the neck relief with a feeler gauge or ruler can help you determine if any adjustments need to be made to the truss rod to achieve a low action without compromising the playability of the guitar.
Installing Fret Markers
Fret markers can help guide your finger placement and improve your fretting accuracy, resulting in cleaner notes and better intonation. Installing fret markers on the edge of the fretboard can give you a visual reference for where your fingers should land, especially when playing in low light or on stage.
How To Lower Acoustic Guitar Action
Lowering the action on your acoustic guitar can make it easier to play, especially for beginners. Here are a few tips on how to do it yourself:
- Adjust the truss rod. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of your guitar. Turning the truss rod clockwise will tighten the neck, which will raise the action. Turning the truss rod counterclockwise will loosen the neck, which will lower the action.
- Adjust the saddle. The saddle is a small piece of plastic or bone that sits under the strings on the bridge. Raising the saddle will lower the action, while lowering the saddle will raise the action.
- Adjust the nut. The nut is a small piece of plastic or bone that sits at the top of the neck. Raising the nut will lower the action, while lowering the nut will raise the action.
It’s important to note that lowering the action on your guitar can also affect the intonation. Intonation is the accuracy of the notes played on the guitar. If the action is too low, the strings may buzz against the frets. If the action is too high, the strings may be difficult to press down.
It’s best to consult with a guitar technician if you’re not comfortable making these adjustments yourself.
People Also Ask About How To Lower Acoustic Guitar Action
What is the best way to adjust the truss rod?
The best way to adjust the truss rod is to use a truss rod wrench. This wrench is designed to fit the truss rod nut, which is located at the headstock of the guitar.
How much should I adjust the saddle?
The amount you need to adjust the saddle will vary depending on the guitar. It’s best to start by making small adjustments and then checking the action. You can continue to make adjustments until the action is to your liking.
How do I know if my guitar’s action is too high or too low?
There are a few ways to tell if your guitar’s action is too high or too low. If the action is too high, the strings will be difficult to press down. If the action is too low, the strings may buzz against the frets.
