The Lowdown on Low Action on a Guitar
When it comes to playing the guitar, one of the most important factors to consider is the action. Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard, and it can have a big impact on the playability and sound of the instrument. For many guitar players, low action is the ultimate goal, but what exactly does that mean?
What is Low Action on a Guitar?
Low action on a guitar is when the strings are set close to the fretboard, creating a lower height between the strings and the frets. This makes it easier to press down on the strings, resulting in a smoother and faster playing experience. The lower height also means that there is less distance for the string to travel when you press down on it, which can result in a more accurate sound and less buzzing or dead notes.
The Benefits of Low Action
Low action has several benefits that make it a popular choice among guitar players. Here are some of the most significant advantages:
- Ease of Play: With low action, you don’t have to put as much effort into pressing down on the strings, which can make playing much easier and more comfortable. This is especially important for guitar players who have hand or wrist problems, as it can reduce the amount of stress placed on these joints.
- Faster Playing: Low action allows for faster playing, as you don’t have to press down as hard or wait as long for the string to come back up. This can be especially helpful for playing fast-paced genres such as rock, metal, and shred.
- Better Sound Quality: Low action can result in a more accurate sound, as there is less distance for the string to travel when you press down on it. This can lead to less buzzing and dead notes, creating a cleaner and more professional-sounding performance.
The Drawbacks of Low Action
While low action has many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the most common issues:
- More Maintenance: Low action requires more regular maintenance, as the strings are closer to the frets and more likely to get knocked out of tune. You may also need to adjust the truss rod more often to keep the neck straight.
- Increased Risk of Buzzing: While low action can reduce buzzing, it can also increase the risk of buzzing if the guitar is not set up correctly. This is because the strings are closer to the frets, which can result in them hitting the frets if the neck is not straight or the frets are not level.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: Low action may not be suitable for everyone, as it can be more difficult to play for those with weaker hands or arthritis. Additionally, some players may prefer a higher action for a different feel or sound.
How to Set Low Action on a Guitar
If you’re interested in setting low action on your guitar, there are a few steps you can follow. Here is a basic guide:
- Check the Neck: Before setting low action, it’s important to make sure that the neck is straight and the frets are level. If the neck is not straight, you may need to adjust the truss rod. If the frets are not level, you may need to have them re-crowned or leveled by a professional.
- Adjust the Saddle Height: The next step is to adjust the saddle height, which is the height of the strings above the fretboard. To lower the action, you need to lower the saddle height. This can be done by loosening the strings, removing the saddle, and sanding down the bottom of the saddle until it is the desired height.
- Check the Intonation: After adjusting the saddle height, it’s important to check the intonation, which is the accuracy of the tuning. If the intonation is off, you may need to adjust the saddles or have a professional do it for you.
- Play and Test: Finally, play your guitar and test the action to see if it is to your liking. If it’s too low, you may need to raise the saddle height. If it’s too high, you may need to lower it further.
Final Thoughts
Low action on a guitar can offer many benefits, including ease of play, faster playing, and better sound quality. However, it’s important to consider the drawbacks, such as more maintenance, increased risk of buzzing, and not being suitable for everyone. If you’re interested in setting low action on your guitar, it’s best to have a professional do it for you or to follow the steps outlined above. With the right setup, low action can be a great choice for guitar players of all levels.
