How to Fine Tune an Electric Guitar

Invented in the mid-1940's, the electric guitar revolutionized the music industry and set the tone for the evolution of blues, rock and country music. Its effect on many genres of music is unmistakable and provided a new tool for guitarists to leave their mark in history.Today's electric guitar is manufactured in numerous styles and shapes, in facilities around the world. And like Ford and Chevy owners, most guitarists are fiercely loyal to their favorite brand or model of guitar. But no matter who made your new guitar you will want to do a little fine tuning to customize it to suit your taste and preserve it for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Electric guitar
• New strings
• Electronic or analog tuner
• Various screwdrivers
• Ruler
• Cleaning cloth
• Electronic contact cleaner

Instructions

1. Begin with a close inspection of your new instrument. Check for obvious cracks, scratches, nicks, broken parts, discolorations or other visible defects. Evidence of damage can help you isolate problems that you might find in the future. Take notes of anything that you find so that you will have them for a reference.

2. Once you have throughly inspected your guitar, run through a quick playability test. No matter if your guitar was built in a custom guitar shop or a large factory in Mexico, it will probably need some personal attention. Hook up your guitar to an amp and make sure that it plays easily, with little to no fret buzz. This can be eliminated by adjusting the string height or truss bar.

3. Check the frets for rough areas that need to be sanded or polished. Sanding or polishing is best left to a professional.

4. Operate the tuning pegs to make sure that they turn easily and don't slip. Some tuning pegs can be adjusted.

5. Set the pickup switch in various positions to check for hum or popping. You will also want to rotate the volume and tone knobs to verify smooth, quiet operation.

6. Keeping in mind the issues that you identified in step 2, you will want to decide if you will fix them yourself or take it to a professional. While some issues like fret buzz or pickup height can be accomplished by nearly any guitarist, issues such as sanding, major adjustments or electronic / electrical work should be left up to the professionals. Make a list of the items that need attention and decide what the priority items are.

7. Replace the strings. The strings on your guitar were probably put on in the factory and have since been played by any number of gum chewing, candy eating, sweaty teens or other various genres of guitarists. Replacing these strings immediately will provide a clean, crisp sound and provide the gauge and style that you prefer.

8. While you have the strings removed, you may want to remove the pick guard or other electronic covers to reveal the inter-workings of your guitar. Factories, shipping containers and stores are not always the cleanest places and can lead to dirt or dust build up on your wiring or electronic parts. This can lead to static, noisy operation and even damage to your guitar. Use a little spray electronic cleaner to blow off the dust and clean out the contact points to ensure proper operation.

9. If you have a tremolo bar, locking nut or other special feature on your guitar, check the owners manual for ways to fine tune them to your preference.

10. If you have adjusted the string height previously, or feel comfortable doing so, you can make some small adjustments to effect the way the instrument plays and customize it to your touch. This type of adjustment is usually outlined in the owners manual of your guitar and will include some suggested specifications for optimal performance.

11. Adjusting the height of the pickups can affect the sound of the guitar. This is an easy procedure and is usually outlined in your owners manual.

12. Working through these simple steps will help you to enjoy your guitar for years to come. Remember that as you continue to play your guitar, you will find that future alterations and tuning will be necessary to keep your happy. Fine tuning a guitar is an ongoing process, but one that most guitarists develop into a passion.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider installing a locking strap system to protect against dropping the guitar.

• Keep your guitar clean and it will retain it's look and color for years.

• Installing new pickups is always an option and can provide a whole new sound from your guitar.

• Always store your guitar in its case, away from heat, moisture or high dust areas.

• Never adjust the truss bar unless you are completely comfortable with its operation.

• Consult your warranty prior to any fine tuning or repairs to make sure you are not violating its terms.

• Don't adjust any part or feature of your guitar unless you fully understand its operation or function.

• Keep your guitar away from chemicals or other damaging substances.