How to Set the Action on an Acoustic Guitar
Setting the action on an acoustic guitar normally solves tuning problems, string buzzing and tired fingers. The "action" on a guitar is how far the strings are set above the fretboard. If they are too high, you will experience a poor tone and a sharp tune to the instrument. If they are too low, you will hear the strings buzz. For acoustic guitars in particular, you must understand that humidity plays a major role in how the action is set. Since acoustic guitars are made of thin pieces of wood, humidity causes the wood to expand and change. Try setting a guitar humidifier in the guitar for two or three days and see if the action changes. If it has not changed, there are steps to manually adjusting the action.
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Instructions
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Adjust the height of the bridge (the white plastic piece next to the strings and pegs) to change the action. After removing the strings and the pegs from the guitar, determine how much you want to shave off of the bridge and mark it with a pencil.
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Use needle-nose pliers to slide the bridge out of its fitted position. The action of an acoustic guitar normally needs to be lowered rather than lifted. Place the bridge on top of the sandpaper on a level area, and begin moving the bridge while holding the sandpaper.
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Place the bridge back into position and begin restringing the guitar. Carefully insert the strings back into the grooves on the nut and make sure the strings are spaced apart equally.
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Before measuring the height of the action, play a little on the instrument to decide if it is a good feel for you. If it is comfortable, measuring the action is optional.
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If the action is not quite right, use a ruler on top of the 12th fret and measure the point where the bottom E string lies. Guitar factories generally choose 3/32 inch to be the starting point for acoustic guitars. Depending on how you play, you may want the action to be closer to the fretboard at 1/8 inch or higher at 5/32 inch.
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Tips & Warnings
When your guitar is not being used, store it away in the guitar case at all times with the humidifier placed in the sound hole. Keep an eye on areas in the bridge or nut that can wear out over time.
Never leave the guitar in a car parked outside. The heat from the sun can warp the neck of the guitar causing the action to change.
References
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Comments
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You said if you want the strings to be closer to the neck, you may want to set the string height at 1/8 rather than 3/32. 1/8 is bigger than 3/32. Just a helpful observation!
