How to intonate a guitar

By | April 7, 2021

1.

Choose a new set of strings to put on your guitar. Decide which meter is most convenient for you. It is important to note that every time you switch to another guitar by guitar strings, the instrument must be intoned again. Put the new strings on the guitar and tune it with a high quality tuner like the Boss TU-2.

2.

Adjust the locking bar. This is done by removing the ratchet housing on the guitar’s main stem and using a plug tool (on gibson style guitars) or inserting a wrench into the open hole on the main stem (on fender style guitars). Some neck-style guitars have the adjustment point at the bottom of the neck. It may require the touch pad to be removed to make the adjustment.

3.

Apply relief to the neck using a wand adjustment tool. Relief is basically the arch in the neck when you look down on it from the end. to be completely straight and second as a very small arc downwards from the fret plate. Turn the panty rod clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the arch in the neck. Only small amounts of turning are required to make a big difference on the guitar.

4. When the neck and string meter are set, make sure that the open string when picked matches the same string fretted on 12 fret and 12 fret harmonic. For this you will want to use the tuner. Make adjustments to the bridge sections until all three matches. It may take some trial and error to get it right. Most electric guitars have the ability to move the saddles at the bridge. Look for the retaining screws shown in the illustration.

5.

If you are still not completely satisfied, consider buying a compensated nut. A compensated nut is a nut that has different lengths for each string groove. This works in conjunction with an adjustable bridge. Earvana is a company that makes a compensated nut that can be installed on most guitars.

Tips and warnings

  • Consult the guitar manufacturer’s website for the correct size of the push rod adjustment tool.
  • A harmonious note is made by holding your finger lightly on a string directly over a spark. Pick the string and remove this finger immediately. You should hear a nice harmonious note.
  • This guide is mainly for electric guitars. Acoustic guitars may require a slightly different procedure given that most acoustics do not have adjustable saddles.
  • Any change in strings or string meters should be accompanied by a complete setting and intonation.
  • Ask a guitarist and you will find out that it is crucial to tune and intonate a guitar. If there is no real intonation, a guitar will be unfaithful to some parts of the neck while you are doing others. The way to overcome this frustration is to make sure that your guitar is set and tuned correctly. Here’s how to set up and tune a guitar.

    Source:danspela.com