String Intonation
Accurate string intonation set- tings ensure that your instrument will play in tune at any point on the neck. Although “perfect into- nation” is an impossibility with a fretted instrument, the proper adjustments will maximize the accuracy of individual notes up and down the neck.
Intonation is set by comparing the pitch of an open string to the pitch of the same string when played one octave higher
at the 12th fret. The actual “vibrating length” of that string is varied until the notes are both at the correct pitch. The vibrating length of the string is altered by adjusting the individual saddles either
forward or backward, depending on whether the fretted note is sharper or flatter in pitch than the open note.
This process should always be performed with Note new strings. Intonation problems can often
result from worn strings. It is often difficult for the untrained ear to determine when the open note and the fretted note are at precisely the same pitch. Some players find that comparing the 12th fret harmonic of the string (rather than the open note) to the fretted note is much easier.
A harmonic is played by plucking the string with the right hand while touching the string with the left index finger (as lightly as possible) directly above the 12th fret. The left fin- ger is drawn away as quickly as possible after the string is plucked, producing a ÒchimeÓ effect. This chimed note is then compared to the fretted note. For greater ease and accuracy, we recommend one of the many types of elec- tronic guitar tuners that are available from most music stores.
1.Ensure that the torsion rod and
2.Tune the instrument to standard
3.Hold the instrument in a normal playing position or place the guitar on a clean, flat surface so that the
body is in contact with the work surface. Any pressure
12on the neck will affect intonation settings.
