How to Fix a Guitar String that is Too High

Having a guitar with high string action can be incredibly frustrating. Whether it's an acoustic or an electric, a guitar that's too high to play comfortably is a major letdown. Fixing this issue requires a good understanding of the components of your guitar, along with the skills to adjust them properly.

Professional Setup is Key

The best approach to fixing a guitar with high string action is to have it professionally set up by a luthier or a skilled guitar technician. When setting up a guitar, there are several important factors to consider:

Check the gauge of the strings being used. Adjust the action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard). Ensure the settings are suitable for your playing style.

A proper setup is essential for a guitar's playability, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable playing experience. Asking specific questions about your desired settings and working with a professional can significantly improve your guitar's feel and sound.

Common Causes of High String Action

There are various factors that can contribute to high string action on a guitar. These include:

Nut bridge adjustments: The nut and saddle need to be properly set so that the strings have the correct height and tension. Neck and soundboard: Warping of the neck or soundboard can also lead to higher than normal string action. If the neck is bowed too much or if the soundboard is not properly glued, it can affect the overall action of the guitar. Truss rod adjustments: The truss rod can be adjusted to provide the appropriate amount of relief to the neck, which can help to lower the action.

For minor adjustments, a layman can attempt to lower the nut slots to their correct depth or adjust the truss rod. However, for more significant changes, it's best to take the guitar to a competent luthier who specializes in acoustic guitars. Luthiers may need to remove and re-glue internal braces, check for warping, or even perform a neck reset.

DIY Tips for Adjusting String Height

While professional setup is the most reliable method, if you want to make minor adjustments yourself, here are a few steps you can follow:

Check the relief: Examine the neck for any bow or relief. Using a straightedge, check if there is any undulation in the neck. If there is, a truss rod adjustment may be needed to correct the shape of the neck. Adjust the nut slots: If the nut slots are too high, they can be filed down to the correct depth, but this is a delicate process and should be done with care. Lower the bridge saddles: One of the simplest ways to lower the string height is to adjust the bridge saddles. This can significantly lower the action of the guitar. Check intonation and buzz: After making any adjustments, it's important to check the intonation (the tuning of the strings) and ensure that there is no string buzz, which can be a sign that the action is still too high.

While these adjustments can improve the playability of your guitar, it's important to remember that making changes to these components can affect other aspects of the guitar. A balanced setup is crucial, and any changes you make should be done with the goal of maintaining that balance.

Conclusion

High string action can be a significant issue for guitar players. Whether you're a professional or a hobbyist, it's essential to have your guitar set up properly by a professional. Taking your guitar to a qualified luthier can provide the best results and ensure that your instrument is in top condition. If you're comfortable making minor adjustments yourself, understanding the key components and following the steps mentioned can help in improving the playability of your guitar.