Is your electric guitar action too high? If so, you’re not alone. Many guitarists struggle with this issue, which can make playing the guitar uncomfortable and difficult.
Editor’s Note:Low action electric guitar setups are a popular choice among guitarists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. There are many benefits to having your guitar set up with low action, including improved playability, increased speed, and reduced fatigue.
After some analysis and digging, we put together this low action electric guitar guide to help you make the right decision for your needs.
| High Action | Low Action | |
|---|---|---|
| String Height | Higher off the fretboard | Lower to the fretboard |
| Playability | More difficult to play | Easier to play |
| Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Fatigue | More fatiguing | Less fatiguing |
Benefits of Low Action Electric Guitar Setups
- Improved playability
- Increased speed
- Reduced fatigue
- More comfortable to play
- Less likely to causefret buzz
How to Set Up Your Electric Guitar for Low Action
If you’re interested in setting up your electric guitar for low action, there are a few things you’ll need to do.
- Adjust the truss rod. The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It’s used to adjust the neck’s relief, which is the amount of bow in the neck. To adjust the truss rod, you’ll need a truss rod wrench. Turn the truss rod clockwise to increase the neck’s relief, and counterclockwise to decrease it.
- Adjust the bridge saddles. The bridge saddles are the metal pieces that hold the strings in place on the bridge. To adjust the bridge saddles, you’ll need a hex key. Turn the hex key clockwise to raise the saddles, and counterclockwise to lower them.
- Set the intonation. Intonation is the process of adjusting the length of the strings so that they’re in tune at every fret. To set the intonation, you’ll need a tuner. Play the 12th fret harmonic on each string, and then adjust the bridge saddle for that string until the tuner reads “in tune.”
Conclusion
Low action electric guitar setups can offer a number of benefits for guitarists of all levels. If you’re looking to improve your playing, increase your speed, and reduce fatigue, then you should consider setting up your guitar for low action.
1. Playability
The playability of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the action, the neck shape, and the weight of the guitar. Low action guitars have a lower string height than high action guitars, which makes them easier to fret and play. This is especially beneficial for beginners, who may not have the strength or dexterity to fret notes on a high action guitar.
- Reduced finger fatigue: Low action guitars require less finger pressure to fret notes, which can reduce finger fatigue, especially over long playing sessions.
- Easier to bend strings: The lower string height on low action guitars makes it easier to bend strings, which is essential for many guitar techniques, such as blues and rock solos.
- Improved accuracy: The lower string height on low action guitars makes it easier to fret notes accurately, which can lead to improved intonation and overall playing accuracy.
Overall, low action guitars are easier to play than high action guitars, which makes them a good choice for beginners and experienced players alike. If you’re looking for a guitar that’s easy to play and will help you improve your playing, then a low action electric guitar may be the right choice for you.
2. Speed
The action of a guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. The lower the action, the closer the strings are to the fretboard. This makes it easier to fret notes, which can lead to increased speed and accuracy.
- Reduced string tension: Lower action guitars have less string tension, which makes it easier to press down on the strings. This can be a major advantage for fast playing, as it reduces the amount of force required to fret notes.
- Improved fretting accuracy: The lower string height on low action guitars makes it easier to fret notes accurately, which can lead to improved intonation and overall playing accuracy. This is especially important for fast playing, as even small inaccuracies can become more noticeable at high speeds.
- Faster fretting transitions: The lower string height on low action guitars also makes it easier to transition between frets quickly, which can lead to increased speed and fluidity. This is especially important for techniques such as legato and sweep picking.
- Reduced finger fatigue: Low action guitars require less finger pressure to fret notes, which can reduce finger fatigue, especially over long playing sessions. This can be a major advantage for fast playing, as finger fatigue can lead to decreased speed and accuracy.
Overall, the lower action of a low action electric guitar can lead to increased speed, accuracy, and fluidity. This makes low action guitars a good choice for players who want to improve their playing speed and technique.
3. Fatigue
The fatigue-reducing properties of low action electric guitars are a significant benefit for players of all levels. When the action of a guitar is high, it requires more force to fret the strings, which can lead to finger and hand fatigue, especially over long playing sessions. This can be a major hindrance for players who want to practice or perform for extended periods of time.
In contrast, low action guitars require less force to fret the strings, which can significantly reduce fatigue. This is especially beneficial for beginners, who may not have the strength or dexterity to play for long periods of time on a high action guitar. Additionally, low action guitars can be beneficial for players with arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to fret strings.
The reduced fatigue of low action guitars can also lead to improved playing speed and accuracy. When players are not fatigued, they are able to play more quickly and accurately. This can be a major advantage for players who want to improve their playing skills or perform at
a high level.
Here is a table summarizing the key benefits of low action guitars in reducing fatigue:
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Reduced finger and hand fatigue | Low action guitars require less force to fret the strings, which can reduce finger and hand fatigue, especially over long playing sessions. |
| Improved playing speed and accuracy | When players are not fatigued, they are able to play more quickly and accurately. |
Overall, the fatigue-reducing properties of low action electric guitars are a major benefit for players of all levels. If you are looking for a guitar that is comfortable to play for long periods of time, then a low action guitar may be the right choice for you.
4. Fret buzz
Fret buzz is a common problem that can occur on electric guitars. It is caused by the strings vibrating against the frets, which produces a buzzing sound. Fret buzz can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- High action: The action of a guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. The higher the action, the more likely the strings are to buzz against the frets.
- Worn frets: Frets can wear down over time, which can cause them to become uneven. This can also lead to fret buzz.
- Neck relief: The neck relief is the amount of bow in the neck of the guitar. Too much or too little neck relief can cause fret buzz.
Low action guitars are less likely to produce fret buzz because the strings are closer to the fretboard. This reduces the amount of vibration that is transferred to the frets, which in turn reduces the likelihood of fret buzz.Here is a summary of the key points:
- Fret buzz is caused by the strings vibrating against the frets.
- Low action guitars are less likely to produce fret buzz because the strings are closer to the fretboard.
- Other factors that can contribute to fret buzz include high action, worn frets, and neck relief.
If you are experiencing fret buzz on your electric guitar, there are a number of things you can do to fix it. You can try adjusting the action, the neck relief, or the intonation. You can also try replacing the frets if they are worn. If you are not comfortable making these adjustments yourself, you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician.
5. String height
String height is a critical factor in determining the playability, tone, and overall feel of an electric guitar. On a low action guitar, the strings are positioned closer to the fretboard, while on a high action guitar, the strings are positioned further away from the fretboard. This difference in string height can have a significant impact on the way the guitar plays and sounds.
- Playability
The lower string height on a low action guitar makes it easier to fret notes, which can lead to improved speed, accuracy, and overall playing comfort. This is especially beneficial for beginners, who may not have the strength or dexterity to fret notes on a high action guitar.
- Tone
The lower string height on a low action guitar can also affect the tone of the guitar. In general, low action guitars have a brighter, more articulate tone than high action guitars. This is because the strings are closer to the pickups, which results in a stronger magnetic field and a more pronounced attack.
- Feel
The lower string height on a low action guitar can also affect the feel of the guitar. In general, low action guitars feel more comfortable to play than high action guitars. This is because the strings are easier to fret, which can reduce finger fatigue and strain.
Overall, the string height on a low action guitar is a key factor to consider when choosing an electric guitar. If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to play, has a bright, articulate tone, and feels comfortable, then a low action guitar may be the right choice for you.
6. Neck relief
The neck relief on a guitar is the amount of curvature in the neck. It is measured by the distance between the strings and the fretboard at the 7th fret. The neck relief is important because it affects the playability and tone of the guitar. A guitar with too much neck relief will have high action, which can make it difficult to fret notes. A guitar with too little neck relief will have low action, which can cause fret buzz.
On a low action electric guitar, the neck relief is typically set to be less than on a high action guitar. This is because the lower action requires less relief to prevent fret buzz. The ideal neck relief for a low action guitar is typically between .005″ and .010″.
The neck relief on a low action guitar is important because it affects the playability and tone of the guitar. A properly set neck relief will make the guitar easier to play and will reduce the risk of fret buzz.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the neck relief on a low action guitar and a high action guitar:
| Low Action Guitar | High Action Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Neck Relief | Less | More |
| Playability | Easier | More difficult |
| Fret Buzz | Less likely | More likely |
7. Bridge saddles
The bridge saddles on an electric guitar are responsible for adjusting the height of the strings above the fretboard. On a low action guitar, the bridge saddles are lowered to bring the strings closer to the fretboard. This has a number of benefits, including improved playability, increased speed, and reduced fatigue.
- Improved playability: Lowering the bridge saddles makes it easier to fret notes, which can be especially beneficial for beginners or players with smaller hands. It also reduces the amount of force required to fret notes, which can lead to less fatigue over long playing sessions.
- Increased speed: The lower string height on a low action guitar makes it easier to move your fingers quickly from fret to fret, which can lead to increased speed and fluidity when playing.
- Reduced fatigue: As mentioned above, lowering the bridge saddles reduces the amount of force required to fret notes. This can lead to less fatigue over long playing sessions, which can be especially beneficial for players with arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to fret strings.
Overall, lowering the bridge saddles on an electric guitar can lead to a number of benefits, including improved playability, increased speed, and reduced fatigue. If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to play, fast, and comfortable, then a low action guitar may be the right choice for you.
8. Intonation
Intonation is the process of adjusting the length of the strings on a guitar so that they are in tune at every fret. On a low action guitar, the strings are closer to the fretboard, which makes it easier to adjust the intonation precisely. This is because there is less room for error when the strings are closer to the fretboard.
- Improved tuning stability: The lower string height on a low action guitar makes it less likely for the strings to go out of tune. This is because the strings are less likely to move around on the fretboard, which can cause them to go out of tune.
- More accurate bends: The lower string height on a low action guitar makes it easier to bend strings accurately. This is because the strings are closer to the fretboard, which gives you more control over the bend.
- Reduced fret buzz: The lower string height on a low action guitar can also reduce fret buzz. This is because the strings are less likely to buzz against the frets when they are closer to the fretboard.
Overall, the more precise intonation on a low action electric guitar can lead to improved tuning stability, more accurate bends, and reduced fret buzz. This can make a big difference in the playability and sound of your guitar.
9. Comfort
The comfort of a guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing an instrument. A guitar that is comfortable to play will be more enjoyable to play, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Low action electric guitars are more comfortable to play than high action guitars for a number of reasons.
First, the lower action on a low action guitar makes it easier to fret notes. This is especially important for beginners, who may not have the strength or dexterity to fret notes on a high action guitar. Additionally, low action guitars are less fatiguing to play, especially over long periods of time. This is because the lower action requires less force to fret notes, which can lead to less strain on your fingers and hands.
Second, the lower action on a low action guitar can make it easier to play fast and complex passages. This is because the strings are closer to the fretboard, which makes it easier to move your fingers quickly from fret to fret. Additionally, the lower action can make it easier to bend strings, which is an essential technique for many guitarists.
Overall, the comfort of a low action electric guitar can make a big difference in your playing experience. If you’re looking for a guitar that is easy to play, comfortable to hold, and sounds great, then a low action electric guitar may be the right choice for you.
Here are some additional benefits of low action electric guitars:
- Reduced finger fatigue
- Improved speed and accuracy
- Easier to play complex passages
- More comfortable to hold
- Better sound quality
If you’re considering buying an electric guitar, be sure to try out a few different models with different action heights to see what feels most comfortable for you.
10. Tone
The tone of an electric guitar is affected by a number of factors, including the action of the guitar. The action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A low action guitar has a lower string height than a high action guitar. This difference in string height can affect the tone of the guitar in a number of ways.
- Increased string vibration: The lower string height on a low action guitar allows the strings to vibrate more freely. This increased vibration results in a brighter, more resonant tone.
- Reduced fret buzz: Low action guitars are less likely to produce fret buzz. Fret buzz is a rattling sound that can occur when the strings vibrate against the frets. This buzzing can interfere with the tone of the guitar, making it sound muddy or unclear.
- Improved clarity: The brighter, more resonant tone of a low action guitar can improve the clarity of the notes. This is especially noticeable when playing chords or complex passages. The individual notes are more distinct and easier to hear.
- Increased sustain: The lower string height on a low action guitar can also increase the sustain of the notes. This is because the strings are able to vibrate more freely, which allows them to sustain for a longer period of time.
Overall, the lower action on a low action electric guitar can lead to a brighter, more resonant, and more articulate tone. This can be a major benefit for players who want a guitar that sounds clear and articulate, especially when playing chords or complex passages.
FAQs on Low Action Electric Guitars
Low action electric guitars are popular among guitarists of all levels for their ease of playability, increased speed, and reduced fatigue. However, there are also some common concerns and misconceptions surrounding low action guitars. Here are six frequently asked questions to address these issues:
Question 1:Do low action guitars compromise on tone?
Answer: No, low action guitars do not necessarily compromise on tone. While it is true that the lower string height can result in a brighter tone, this can be beneficial for players who want a clear and articulate sound. Additionally, the reduced fret buzz on low action guitars can improve the overall clarity and resonance of the tone.
Question 2:Are low action guitars more difficult to play?
Answer: On the contrary, low action guitars are generally easier to play than high action guitars. The lower string height makes it easier to fret notes, which can be especially beneficial for beginners or players with smaller hands. Additionally, the reduced string tension on low action guitars can reduce finger fatigue, making them more comfortable to play for extended periods.
Question 3:Can low action guitars cause fret buzz?
Answer: While fret buzz is a possibility on any guitar, it is less likely to occur on low action guitars. The lower string height reduces the amount of string vibration that comes into contact with the frets, which minimizes the chances of fret buzz. Additionally, proper setup and intonation can further reduce the risk of fret buzz on low action guitars.
Question 4:Are low action guitars more prone to intonation problems?
Answer: No, low action guitars are not inherently more prone to intonation problems than high action guitars. Intonation is primarily affected by the accuracy of the nut and bridge saddles, and proper setup can ensure accurate intonation regardless of the action height.
Question 5:Can low action guitars damage the frets?
Answer: While it is possible for extremely low action to cause premature fret wear, this is not a common issue with properly set up low action guitars. The string tension and the amount of force used when fretting notes are more significant factors in fret wear than the action height itself.
Answer: While low action guitars offer many benefits, they may not be suitable for all playing styles. For example, players who frequently use aggressive techniques such as heavy palm muting or string bending may prefer a slightly higher action to avoid fretting out or choking the strings. Ultimately, the best action height for a particular guitar and playing style is a matter of personal preference and experimentation.
Summary: Low action electric guitars offer numerous advantages, including improved playability, increased speed, and reduced fatigue. They do not necessarily compromise on tone and are not inherently more prone to intonation problems or fret damage. While the ideal action height may vary depending on the playing style, low action guitars are generally a good choice for guitarists who prioritize ease of playability and comfort.
Transition to the next article section: Now that we have addressed some common concerns about low action electric guitars, let’s explore some additional benefits and considerations when choosing and setting up a low action guitar.
Tips for Low Action Electric Guitars
Optimizing the action of your electric guitar can significantly enhance its playability and performance. Here are five essential tips for achieving a low action setup:
Tip 1: Adjust the Truss Rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. Adjusting the truss rod alters the neck’s relief, which is the amount of curvature in the neck. For a low action setup, the neck should have a slight forward bow (concave relief) to allow the strings to vibrate freely without buzzing against the frets.
Tip 2: Set the Bridge Height
The bridge height determines the distance between the strings and the fretboard. To lower the action, the bridge saddles need to be adjusted downward. Use a hex key or screwdriver to carefully lower the saddles until the strings are at the desired height above the fretboard.
Tip 3: Adjust the Nut Slots
The nut slots are the grooves in the nut where the strings rest at the headstock. If the slots are too high, the strings will be raised off the fretboard. Carefully file the slots deeper to lower the strings and improve the action.
Tip 4: Check the Fret Leveling
Uneven frets can cause the strings to buzz or fret out. Use a fret rocker tool to check for any high frets. If necessary, use a fret leveling file to level the frets and ensure a smooth playing surface.
Tip 5: Set the Intonation
Intonation ensures that the guitar plays in tune at every fret. Adjust the bridge saddles forward or backward to change the string length and achieve accurate intonation. Use a tuner or harmonic method to check and adjust the intonation.
Summary: By following these tips and paying attention to detail, you can achieve a low action setup that enhances the playability, speed, and comfort of your electric guitar. Remember to make adjustments gradually and check the results carefully to avoid any potential issues.
Transition to the conclusion: With a properly set up low action electric guitar, you can unlock its full potential and enjoy a more enjoyable playing experience.
Conclusion
Low action electric guitars offer a multitude of benefits for guitarists, including increased playability, enhanced speed, and reduced fatigue. By carefully adjusting the truss rod, bridge height, nut slots, fret leveling, and intonation, you can achieve a low action setup that optimizes your guitar’s performance.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, embracing the advantages of a low action electric guitar can elevate your playing experience. It empowers you to fret notes with greater ease, execute rapid passages with precision, and enjoy extended playing sessions without discomfort.
