When it comes to playability & tone, electric guitar action height is crucial. Without having it properly set, you could be wasting the efforts of your fretting hand or sacrificing your tone & sustain.
But what is “string height”, how is it measured, and how is it adjusted? Read on to understand how action height plays a vital role in your sound. It can make notes easier to press down, allowing for smoother & more efficient playing. It can also eliminate string buzzing, allowing each of your notes to sing to their fullest!
What is Guitar Action Height
Guitar action height refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard of an electric guitar. It plays a crucial role in determining the playability and overall performance of the instrument.
Most guitarists understand the importance of having an appropriate action height, as it directly affects how easy or difficult it is to play notes, chords, and perform techniques on the guitar. To measure guitar action height accurately, you will need a few tools commonly found in a guitarist’s toolbox.
A ruler with measurements in millimeters or inches is essential for this task. Additionally, a small screwdriver may be necessary to make adjustments if needed.
It’s worth noting that electric and acoustic guitars have different methods for measuring action height due to their distinct construction and design. The main ways to determine guitar action height involve focusing on specific areas of the instrument.
Firstly, measuring at the 12th fret is a common method used by many guitarists & guitar techs. This location provides a good overall representation of the guitar’s string height across all frets since it lies in the middle point between the nut and bridge.
Secondly, some players also check the action at both ends of the neck—around the first frets and near higher frets—to ensure consistency throughout different positions on the fingerboard. Setting the action height requires finding that sweet spot where it feels comfortable to play without causing unnecessary strain or difficulty.
While personal preference comes into play here, there are general guidelines that can help achieve an ideal setup for most players. Too high of an action can result in increased finger pressure required to press down strings onto frets, leading to fatigue over extended playing periods.
On contrary, an extremely low action might cause fret buzz or rattling noises due to excessive string vibrations against nearby frets. Understanding what guitar action height entails is crucial for any guitarist looking to optimize their instrument’s performance and playability.
With proper measurement techniques and adjustments made with precision, you can find that perfect balance that suits your playing style and preferences. Next, we will delve into the process of measuring guitar action height in more detail, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how to achieve the desired action for your instrument.
Related: The Anatomy of an Electric Guitar
What’s The Ideal Action For an Electric Guitar
Striking the right chord with your guitar’s action is essential for a smooth and satisfying playing experience. This delicate balance, the space between strings and fretboard, is measured at the 12th fret and is pivotal for ease of play, precise intonation, and pure tone. Too low, and you’ll be serenaded by the buzz of strings against frets; too high, and your fingers may tire from the marathon of pressing down the strings.
| Guitar Type | Low E Action (mm) | High E Action (mm) | String Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Electric | 1.6 – 2.0 | 1.6 – 2.0 | Light to Medium |
| Lead Guitarist | 1.0 – 1.5 | 1.0 – 1.5 | Super Light to Light |
| Rhythm Guitarist | 2.0 – 2.5 | 2.0 – 2.5 | Medium to Heavy |
Whether your guitar is a budget model with a lofty action or a high-end instrument finely tuned at the factory, the goal is the same: find your comfort zone. The golden action range lies between 1/16″ (1.6mm) and 3/32″ (2.4mm), though some may venture higher to suit an energetic strumming style. To measure, simply support the neck, stretch a string at both ends, and use a ruler or gauge to gauge the gap. If you’re perpetually tweaking the truss rod to perfect the action, it’s time to enlist a technician’s expertise. Ultimately, personal preference leads the way—experiment until your guitar feels like an extension of your own creative spirit.
How To Measure& Adjust Electric Guitar Action Height
In order to inspect your guitar for a proper set up, there are 4 things that need to be taken into account
Neck Straightness
To measure the neck straightness, you want to press down the first fret & the fifteenth fret, or whatever fret meets the body of the guitar.
Then look between the 7th & 9th fret to notice the amount of gap between the frets & the bottom of your low e string. This gap is the amount of “relief” your guitar neck has.
A little bit of a gap is okay as mentioned in the video below, however if you want a dead-straight neck, then an adjustment to your truss rod will have to be made.
12th Fret Action
For this measurement, you want to check for the correct string-to-fret distance of your low e string & high e string.
This is done before the radius adjustment of the saddles & sets the outer limits for the next step.
A gap measurement of about .40 inches (3/64) or about 1mm is probably about as low as you want to go.
If any of your two strings need height adjustment, you can do that at the saddles on the bridge using an allen wrench or hex head tool.
Bridge Saddle Radius
In this adjustment, you will need an under-string radius gauge. It’s a bit of a specialized tool, so if you don’t have one, we will show you an alternate way using a credit card in the next section.
Basically you’re going to want to adjust the height of your inner bridge saddles to match the outer e strings & form a slight carve that matches the fretboard radius.
When using the under string gauge, simply adjust the inner saddle heights (strings 2-5) until all strings buzz slightly onto the gauge.
1st Fret Action
The last measurement is for the string to fret distance on the first fret.
Mind you this is more of something to note as a last step, than to adjust on spot, as adjustment requires permanent filing of the guitar nut.
To measure, simply take your first finger & press down on the 3rd fret of whatever string you’re checking. Then take your other finger & press down on the first fret.
The gap between your string & 1st fret if what you’re looking for. Below are some approximate measurements for each string:
Low E = .025″ (0.635mm)
A = .022″ (0.5588mm)
D = .020″ (0.508mm)
G = .016″ (0.4064mm)
B = .014″ (0.3556mm)
High E = .011″ (0.2794mm)
A Shortcut To Quickly Adjust String Action
The previous section shows us how to go through all the checks & properly adjust your guitar’s string height. We recommend at least understanding what’s going on with your instrument & how it all works. If you’re short on time or don’t have the tools to measure string height, here’s a quick way to make adjustments.
All that’s required is a credit card, which most are standardized to be .0312in (.76mm) in thickness, you need some tape, and finally a hex key or allen wrench to adjust your bridge saddles.
Step 1
Place the card underneath the strings at the 12th fret so that the card sticks out of both sides of the fretboard.
Step 2
Cut about two 4in lengths of tape & attach 1 inch on each side of the credit card. Next you will bend the card to conform to the radius of the fretboard. Finally, with the card conformed to the radius, secure the tape to the back of the guitar’s neck to hold the radiused card in place.
Step 3
Adjust each individual saddle until the corresponding string buzzes only slightly onto the credit card when you pluck the string. Be sure to adjust both posts of the saddle to have an even height distribution. Finally be sure to tune the string you’re working on after each saddle adjustment. There you have it, a method under 5 minutes for adjusting string height!
How Guitar Action Height Affects Playability
Navigating the landscape of guitar action is much like finding the perfect fit for a pair of shoes; it needs to be just right for the best experience. The action—the gap between the strings and the fretboard—can either pave the way for a smooth performance or become a hurdle in your musical journey. Set it too high, and you’ll find yourself wrestling with the strings, which can tire your fingers and throw your notes out of tune. Too low, and you’ll be accompanied by the unwanted buzz of strings against frets, especially when you’re unleashing your inner rock star with aggressive strumming or tapping.
| Action Height | Playability | Tone | String Buzz |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | Easy fretting, fast play | Brighter | More likely |
| Medium | Balanced feel | Balanced | Less likely |
| High | More effort to play | Fuller | Least likely |
The sweet spot of action height is subjective, shaped by your playing style and the genres that stir your soul. Blues and rock guitarists might lean towards a higher action for that rich sustain that fuels their soulful bends, while jazz and metal aficionados often favor a lower setup for lightning-fast licks. To dial in your ideal action, a bit of trial and error with the truss rod and bridge saddles goes a long way—think of it as a delicate dance with your instrument. Small, thoughtful adjustments can make a world of difference, ensuring your guitar not only plays well but also resonates with your personal touch.
High vs Low Action Height: Which is Better?
When it comes to action height, one of the key considerations is whether to have a high or low action. Each option has its own advantages and drawbacks, and guitarists often have different preferences based on their playing style and musical genre.
Firstly, let’s discuss high action height. Having a higher action means that the strings are further away from the fretboard.
This setup allows for more room between the strings and the frets, leading to reduced chances of string buzz or unintended notes ringing out when playing aggressively or using heavy distortion. It can be particularly useful for guitarists who employ techniques like string bending or aggressive picking.
On the other hand, low action height refers to having the strings closer to the fretboard. This setup facilitates easier fretting and smoother note transitions, making it ideal for players who prefer fast soloing or intricate chord progressions.
The reduced distance between strings and frets also requires less finger pressure to achieve clear notes, allowing for greater comfort during longer playing sessions. It’s worth noting that there isn’t a definitive answer as to which option is better since personal preference plays a significant role.
However, many professional players tend to gravitate towards lower action heights due to its overall ease of playability and faster response. It’s crucial for individuals experimenting with different types of bridges – such as those found on Stratocasters or Tune-o-matic bridges – to find an optimal balance between string height and bridge adjustment in order to achieve their desired sound.
Both high and low action heights have their merits depending on individual playing style, genre preferences, and specific guitar setup. While high action provides better control at higher volumes or aggressive playing styles, low action offers increased playability for intricate fretwork.
Ultimately, finding your preferred action height involves experimentation with various parameters such as string gauge, bridge adjustments, neck relief (the amount of curvature in the neck), and even temperature fluctuations that affect the guitar’s setup. Remember, the perfect action height is subjective, and what matters most is finding a setup that allows you to play comfortably and expressively.
Factors Affecting Changes in Action Height
Several factors can influence changes in the action height of a guitar. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining optimal playability and ensuring a comfortable playing experience.
Firstly, the type of string gauge used greatly affects the action height & string tension. Thicker strings require more space and thus tend to necessitate higher action, while lighter strings allow for lower action.
It’s important to note that changing string gauges will alter the tension on the neck, potentially causing it to bow or flatten. Additionally, specific playing techniques can also impact the action height of an electric guitar.
Players who employ heavy bending or aggressive picking styles may prefer higher action to avoid fret buzz and unintentional notes ringing out due to excessive string vibrations against the frets. On the other hand, those who favor smoother legato playing or use lighter touch may benefit from lower action as it allows for faster and more effortless fretting.
Another significant factor affecting changes in action height is temperature and humidity fluctuations. Wood expands or contracts with variations in environmental conditions, including humidity levels.
This can cause the neck to bow or warp slightly, resulting in changes in overall string height along the fingerboard. It’s worth noting that these changes might not be immediately noticeable but could lead to bad intonation and playability issues if left unaddressed.
Factors Influencing Guitar Action Height:
- String Gauge: Heavier strings demand higher action, while lighter ones accommodate a lower setup.
- Neck Tension: Switching string gauges affects neck tension, possibly causing it to bow or flatten.
- Playing Style: Vigorous bending and picking often call for higher action to prevent fret buzz.
- Touch Sensitivity: Players with a lighter touch may opt for lower action for ease of fretting and speed.
- Climate Variability: Changes in temperature and humidity can lead to neck warping, altering action height.
- Maintenance Habits: Regular check-ups can mitigate the subtle yet impactful shifts in action over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my guitar’s string action is too high or too low?
If your guitar feels challenging to play and requires excessive finger pressure to fret the notes, it’s likely that the action is too high. On the other hand, if you’re experiencing fret buzz or string rattle when you play certain strings or frets, chances are your action is set too low.
By paying attention to these symptoms and observing how your guitar feels and sounds while playing both plugged in and unplugged, you can determine whether an adjustment in action height might be necessary.
How high should the action be on electric guitar?
The ideal action height for an electric guitar typically falls within a range of 1.5-2.0 millimeters (or 0.06-0.08 inches) at the 12th fret. This allows for comfortable playability without excessive string buzz or difficulty in fretting notes. However, individual preferences and playing styles may vary, so it’s important to find the balance that suits you best.
What is considered low action on an electric guitar?
Low action on an electric guitar refers to a setup where the guitar strings are set closer to the fretboard, resulting in a shorter distance between the strings and the frets.
Typically, low action is achieved when the electric guitar string height at the 12th fret measures around 1.0-1.5 millimeters (or 0.04-0.06 inches). This setup allows for faster and easier fretting, facilitates techniques like bending and tapping, and can contribute to a smoother playing experience.
However, it’s essential to strike a balance between low action and avoiding string buzz or fretting out, as individual preferences and play styles may differ.Â
Is there a risk involved in adjusting the action height?
While it’s always advisable to consult with a skilled technician for major adjustments or repairs, there are some basic techniques you can try at home if you’re comfortable doing so. Remember though: proceed with caution!
If you’re uncertain about undertaking any adjustments yourself or lack experience with tools like files or truss rod wrenches, it’s best to seek professional guidance. A small mistake can lead to permanent damage that may require costly repairs in the long run.
Should I aim for consistent action height across all strings or adjust each string individually to preference?
Well, this depends on personal preference and musical style.
Some players prefer a slightly lower action on treble strings for easy bending and faster solos while keeping the bass strings slightly higher for increased resonance and power chords stability. Others may prefer a more even setup across all strings for balance when performing intricate chord progressions or complex fingerpicking patterns.
Ultimately, finding an ideal setup requires experimentation and finding what works best for your play style and musical needs.
Do expensive guitars have low action?
The cost of a guitar does not necessarily dictate its string action. However many expensive or high-end guitars do receive more attention to detail in terms of not only the materials used & craftsmanship, but are often set up for optimal playability right out of the box.
Conclusion
Understanding and adjusting your guitar’s action can significantly improve your playing experience. By finding the ideal balance between playability and comfort, you can ensure your instrument responds accurately to your touch and allows for effortless movement along the fingerboard.
Measuring electric guitar string height is crucial, as well as using precise tools like a feeler gauge in order to measure string height accurately. After determining the current action height and identifying any necessary adjustments, you can confidently adjust the bridge saddle height or truss rod to achieve a desired action height.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable with these procedures, seeking professional help from a skilled guitar technician can provide expert guidance and suggest a full setup for optimal results.
Regular maintenance is essential for maintaining optimal playability, including periodically checking the action height and making necessary adjustments when needed. Experimenting with different string gauges or brands may also influence the overall feel of your instrument. By fine-tuning your guitar’s action height, you can take control of one of its critical variables that directly impact playability and performance quality. With dedication and patience, you can achieve an ideal setup tailored specifically to your preferences.
Never hesitate to seek assistance or advice from fellow musicians or online forums when encountering challenges, as collaboration often yields innovative solutions. Controlling every aspect of your guitar’s setup empowers you as a player, whether it be adjusting the truss rod for neck relief or tweaking each saddle height for perfect string action. By understanding and adjusting the action height, you can transform your guitar into an extension of yourself, allowing your playing to flourish in both technical proficiency and creative expression.
