Guitar action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard on a guitar. It can greatly affect the playability and tone of the instrument. In this guide, we will explore the various types of guitar action, how to measure it, and how to adjust it to achieve the desired feel and sound.
Types of Guitar Action
There are several types of guitar action, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Low action: This is when the strings are close to the fretboard. It allows for easy playing and fast fretting, but can lead to fret buzz and lack of sustain.
Medium action: This is a balance between low and high action, offering a good compromise between playability and tone.
High action: This is when the strings are farther away from the fretboard. It can lead to a better tone and more sustain, but can make playing more difficult.
Measuring Guitar Action
To measure the action on your guitar, you will need a ruler or a feeler gauge.
First, check the action at the 12th fret. Place the ruler or feeler gauge on top of the 12th fret, and measure the distance between the top of the fret and the bottom of the string.
Next, check the action at the first fret. Place the ruler or feeler gauge on top of the first fret, and measure the distance between the top of the fret and the bottom of the string.
Compare these measurements to the manufacturer’s recommended action or a desired action level.
Adjusting Guitar Action
Adjusting the action on a guitar can be done through a few different methods.
Adjusting the truss rod: The truss rod is a metal rod that runs along the neck of the guitar. By adjusting the truss rod, you can change the amount of relief (curvature) in the neck, which can affect the action.
Adjusting the saddle: The saddle is the piece of material that the strings rest on at the bridge. By adjusting the height of the saddle, you can change the action.
Adjusting the nut: The nut is the piece of material that the strings pass through at the headstock. By adjusting the height of the nut, you can change the action.
It is important to note that adjusting the action can also affect the intonation (the accuracy of the pitch) of the guitar, so it is recommended to have a professional make these adjustments.
Choosing the Right Action for You
The right action for you will depend on your personal playing style and preferences.
If you prefer a low action, you may want to consider a guitar with a flatter neck radius, as this will make it easier to play and fret.
If you prefer a high action, you may want to consider a guitar with a rounder neck radius, as this will give you more sustain and better tone.
It is also important to consider the types of music you will be playing. For example, if you will be playing a lot of lead guitar, a low action may be preferred for its fast fretting capabilities. On the other hand, if you will be playing a lot of rhythm guitar, a high action may be preferred for its tone and sustain.
Ultimately, the best way to find the right action for you is to try out different guitars with different action levels and see which one feels and sounds the best.
Conclusion
Guitar action is an important factor in determining the playability and tone of an instrument. It is important to consider the type of action you prefer and the types of music you will be playing when choosing a guitar. Understanding how to measure and adjust the action on your guitar can also be helpful in achieving the desired feel and sound. It is important to note that adjusting the action can also affect the intonation of the guitar, so it is recommended to have a professional make these adjustments. Overall, the right guitar action for you is one that feels comfortable and allows you to express yourself musically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is guitar action?
A: Guitar action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard on a guitar. It can greatly affect the playability and tone of the instrument.
Q: What are the different types of guitar action?
A: There are three main types of guitar action: low, medium, and high. Low action is when the strings are close to the fretboard, medium action is a balance between low and high, and high action is when the strings are farther away from the fretboard.
Q: How do I measure the action on my guitar?
A: To measure the action on your guitar, you will need a ruler or a feeler gauge. First, check the action at the 12th fret and then at the first fret. Compare these measurements to the manufacturer’s recommended action or a desired action level.
Q: How do I adjust the action on my guitar?
A: Adjusting the action on a guitar can be done through a few different methods, such as adjusting the truss rod, saddle, or nut. It is recommended to have a professional make these adjustments, as adjusting the action can also affect the intonation of the guitar.
Q: What is the right action for me?
A: The right action for you will depend on your personal playing style and preferences. It is also important to consider the types of music you will be playing. The best way to find the right action for you is to try out different guitars with different action levels and see which one feels and sounds the best.
Q: Can adjusting the action affect the intonation of the guitar?
A: Yes, adjusting the action can also affect the intonation of the guitar. It is recommended to have a professional make these adjustments.