How To adjust the Action of your electric guitar. Setting up your electric guitar is an essential task that every guitarist should learn. One crucial aspect of a guitar setup is adjusting the action. The action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard, and getting it just right can greatly impact your playing experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of setting the action on your electric guitar.
Table of Contents
How To adjust the Action of your electric guitar
Why is Action Important
The action of your guitar affects several aspects of your playing. A high action can make it harder to press down on the strings, leading to intonation problems and potential hand fatigue. On the other hand, a low action can cause fret buzz, where the strings vibrate against the frets, resulting in an undesirable buzzing sound.
By setting the action correctly, you can achieve a comfortable playing experience with good intonation and minimal fret buzz. It’s important to note that the action is a matter of personal preference, and what works for one player may not work for another. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to achieve a well-balanced action.
Tools You’ll Need
- Allen wrenches: Most electric guitars use Allen wrenches for adjusting the bridge saddles and a truss rod. Check your guitar’s specifications to determine the correct sizes needed.
- A ruler or feeler gauge: You’ll need a measuring tool to determine the distance between the strings and the fretboard.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Assess the current action: Before making any adjustments, take a moment to evaluate the current action of your guitar. Play each string individually and listen for any excessive buzzing or difficulty in fretting the notes. Look for signs of uneven string height across the fretboard.
- Truss rod adjustment (if necessary): The truss rod is a metal rod inside the neck of the guitar that helps counteract the tension from the strings. If your guitar has a significant neck relief (the curvature of the neck), you may need to adjust the truss rod first. Consult your guitar’s manual or a professional technician for guidance on truss rod adjustments, as improper adjustments can damage your instrument.
- Bridge saddle adjustment: Most electric guitars have adjustable bridge saddles that allow you to control the string height for each individual string. Use the appropriate Allen wrench to raise or lower the saddle of each string as needed. It’s advisable to make small adjustments and test the playability after each tweak.
- Check string height: Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments to the bridge saddles, it’s time to measure the action. Place a ruler or feeler gauge against the fretboard, just above the 12th fret. Measure the distance between the bottom of the string and the top of the fret. For a general setup, a good starting point is around 2mm for the high E string and 2.5mm for the low E string. Adjust the saddles accordingly to achieve your desired action.
- Fine-tuning: After setting the action, play the guitar and assess the feel and sound. Pay attention to any buzzing, difficulty in fretting notes, or excessive string tension. If necessary, make additional adjustments to individual saddle heights to balance the action across all the strings.
- Recheck and repeat: Once you’ve made the initial adjustments, take some time to play the guitar extensively. Check for any issues and make further adjustments if needed. It may take a few iterations to find the perfect action that suits your playing style and preferences.

Seeking Professional Help
While setting up your guitar’s action can be a rewarding experience, it does require some technical knowledge. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about making adjustments yourself, it’s always a good idea to seek assistance from a professional guitar technician.
They have the expertise and specialized tools to ensure that your guitar is set up optimally.
A professional guitar technician can assess your instrument’s current condition, identify any underlying issues, and provide tailored recommendations for achieving the desired action. They can also handle more advanced adjustments such as nut slot filing or fret leveling, which may require specialized skills and tools.
Mastering Tune-O-Matic Bridge Individual String Height Adjustment
Additionally, a professional technician can help you understand your guitar better. They can provide valuable insights into how different adjustments affect the playability and tone of your instrument. They may even suggest additional modifications or upgrades that can enhance your overall playing experience.
Remember, a well-set-up guitar not only improves your playing comfort but also ensures better intonation, sustain, and tone. So, if you’re unsure about any aspect of setting up your electric guitar’s action, it’s always better to consult a professional who can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible results.
In conclusion, setting up the action of your electric guitar is a vital step in optimizing your playing experience. By adjusting the string height to your preference, you can achieve a comfortable and playable instrument that suits your playing style. Whether you choose to tackle the task yourself or seek professional assistance, taking the time to properly set up your guitar will undoubtedly enhance your enjoyment and performance.
How to Install Mounting Rings and Quick Connect Pickups on Your Gibson Guitar