adjusting the playing action on the guitar

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mmenk

Posts: 23
Joined: Dec. 26 2015

adjusting the playing action on the ...

Is there a sweet spot, or should it be as low as you can go?
As a builder, I like to set up a guitar with a medium action, which means that you can play it hard and it will buzz a bit, but not get to dirty or over driven.
Then I also like it down and low and sleezy. Buzzing like a bird.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Jan. 22 2016 7:34:16

Ricardo

Posts: 15725
Joined: Dec. 14 2004
From: Washington DC

RE: adjusting the playing action on ... (in reply to mmenk)

quote:

ORIGINAL: mmenk

Is there a sweet spot, or should it be as low as you can go?
As a builder, I like to set up a guitar with a medium action, which means that you can play it hard and it will buzz a bit, but not get to dirty or over driven.
Then I also like it down and low and sleezy. Buzzing like a bird.

It's player's personal preference. I am more concerned with bridge height than action over fingerboard. Bridge=8mm, 12th fret=3 is making most folks happy.

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REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Jan. 22 2016 16:47:51

SephardRick

Posts: 358
Joined: Apr. 11 2014

RE: adjusting the playing action on ... (in reply to mmenk)

I considered it more of a practical spot, than a sweet spot. Action is really a compromise. Personally, I don't like going below 3.0 mm (at 12th fret) for the bass E string and 2.7 mm for the treble E. Any lower, my technique doesn't seem to improve. Just more buzzing. Therefore, its not worth the extra buzz. Especially if you play other styles in addition to flamenco on the guitar. IMHO.

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REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Jan. 22 2016 19:35:25

etta

Posts: 347
Joined: Jan. 20 2010

RE: adjusting the playing action on ... (in reply to mmenk)

String tension can be a big factor in action settings. The use of high tension strings can allow for a lower action with more control over buzzing or rattle.

REPORT THIS POST AS INAPPROPRIATE | Date Jan. 23 2016 13:29:07