Intonation Adjustment

When the string gauge and/or bridge height is changed, or the truss rod is adjusted, it is usually necessary to reintonate the bridge saddles. If the bass plays out of tune in the higher registers, this adjustment is needed. Check each string in the following way:

To check intonation, compare the harmonic tone (12th fret) to the fretted tone (12th fret). Because the 12th fret is the midway point between the nut and the bridge, a harmonic tone one octave higher than the fretted tone can be generated. This is done by barely touching the string directly above the 12th fret (left hand) and simultaneously plucking the same string (right hand). If the fretted tone is exactly the same pitch as the har- monic tone, no adjustments to the bridge saddles are neces- sary. However, if the fretted tone is higher in pitch (sharp) or lower in pitch (flat) than the harmonic tone, apply the appropri- ate adjustment as shown below. Repeat the same procedure for each string.

If the fretted note is pitched higher than the harmonic, turn the corresponding saddle adjustment screw clockwise, increasing the active string length.

Conversely, if the fretted note is pitched lower than the har- monic, turn the corresponding saddle adjustment screw counter- clockwise, reducing the active string length.

When lower than harmonic

When higher than harmonic