How to get low action on acoustic guitar is something many players want to learn. Why? Lower action makes playing any guitar much easier, but there is a catch. Too low action will create fret buzz.
Lowering the action may seem difficult, but it’s actually doable via the steps I’ll teach here.
After you learn about how to lower action on an acoustic guitar, you’ll get even more enjoyment from your instrument. Let’s see how it’s done.
We’ve listed tools you’ll need, steps to check your action, and links to videos to guide you.
What is Guitar Action?
Guitar action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. It is measured at the 12th fret.
For most acoustic guitars, a good range to aim for is 2.0 mm to 2.5 mm on the low E string and 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm on the high E string. Lower action suits fingerstyle players. A bit more height can benefit strummers.
How to Get Low Action on Your Acoustic Guitar: Tools You’ll Need
These tools make lowering action on an acoustic guitar easier.
- Ruler or string action gauge: For precise measurements of string height.
- Feeler gauge: To assess neck relief, targeting around 0.010 inches (0.25 mm).
- Truss rod wrench: Needed to adjust the neck; confirm the correct size for your guitar.
- Sandpaper (400-600 grit): For smoothing the saddle during adjustments.
- Nut files: To fine-tune nut slots, matched to your string sizes.
- Capo: Useful for holding strings in place while measuring.
- Pencil: To mark the saddle before sanding.
Measuring Guitar Action
Do you want to know how to get low action on acoustic guitar? First, measure its current action:
- Measure at the 12th fret: Use a ruler to check the distance from the top of the 12th fret to the bottom of the low E string (aim for 2.0 mm-2.5 mm) and the high E string (1.5 mm-2.0 mm).
- Check the first fret: Place a capo on the first fret and measure the gap to the strings. It should be about 0.5 mm.
- Evaluate neck relief: With the capo on the first fret, press the low E string at the 14th fret and use a feeler gauge at the 7th fret. A gap of 0.010 inches (0.25 mm) is ideal.
Adjusting the Nut
Get lower action on acoustic guitar by:
- Measuring first fret action: With a capo on the first fret, check the string-to-fret distance (aim for 0.5 mm).
- Filing the slots: Use appropriately sized nut files to carefully lower each slot, working gradually. Be very careful here, you don't want to over-file your nut.
- Test the result: Restring and play the lower frets to ensure there’s no buzzing.
Precision lets you get low action on an acoustic guitar without affecting playability. You can learn how to adjust the nut to improve your guitar’s action.
How to Lower Action on Acoustic Guitar With Truss Rod
The truss rod controls the neck’s curvature, which affects action. Adjust it by:
- Assessing neck relief: Using the capo and feeler gauge, check the gap at the 7th fret. If it exceeds 0.25 mm, tighten the truss rod clockwise; if it’s less, loosen it counterclockwise.
- Turning the truss rod in quarter-turn increments, allowing time for the neck to settle after each adjustment.
- Verifying the change: Recheck the relief and adjust further if necessary.
Small adjustments can lower action on an acoustic guitar with truss rod changes without risking damage.
Here’s more information on how to adjust your truss rod.
Lowering the Saddle
The saddle, located at the bridge, influences string height. To lower it:
- Remove the strings: Detune and take off the strings carefully.
- Lift the saddle: Remove it from the bridge slot—it may require gentle pressure.
- Mark and measure: Use a pencil to indicate how much to remove from the saddle’s bottom, starting with a modest amount like 0.5 mm.
- Sand evenly: Use sandpaper on a flat surface to reduce the saddle’s height, checking often to maintain uniformity.
- Reinstall and test: Place the saddle back, restring the guitar, and measure the action again.
Need a visual guide? Learn how to lower action on an acoustic guitar by adjusting your guitar’s saddle.
Reassembly and Testing
After adjustments, reassemble and reassess for lower action on acoustic guitar:
- Secure the saddle: Ensure it fits snugly in the bridge.
- Restring: Tune to standard pitch (EADGBE).
- Check for issues: Play each string at every fret, listening for buzzing or intonation problems.
- Adjust if needed: Tweaks to the saddle or nut may be required if issues persist.
These checks will help you know how to fix low action on an acoustic guitar or if you need to make further adjustments.
Ongoing Maintenance
To maintain your guitar’s action:
- Monitor regularly: Check your guitar’s action every few months.
- Control humidity: Use a humidifier to prevent environmental shifts from affecting the setup.
- Consult a professional: For challenging adjustments, you may need a luthier to provide expert assistance.
By learning how to lower action on an acoustic guitar, you can tailor the setup to suit your needs. Each adjustment requires precision, so take your time with each step. The result is a guitar that feels comfortable and sounds well.