NUT CHECK
With the truss rod and action set, you’re ready to check the nut. Measure for a clearance of 0.020” to 0.022” at the rst fret, without
fretting the string. This is an excellent "acid" test of your nut, which can cause problems on an otherwise properly set up instrument.
For example, you might set up a bass completely to spec, and be driven crazy by a buzzy E string. The nut clearance check may reveal
insucient clearance as the culprit. Alternatively, too much clearance will prevent action from being set suciently low.
Any nut work should be left to an experienced professional. However, if your string sits too low in the string slot with resultant buzzing,
you can temporarily solve the problem by placing a shim under the string. Small pieces of business card paper stock work ne.
PICKUP HEIGHT
Virtually all pickups can be adjusted, and it’s not unusual for the treble side pickup to sit slightly closer to the string. Pickup adjust-
ments are interactive, requiring listening through an amp over a range of playing conditions, and ne tuning for uniform volume levels
across all strings.
Typical clearance ranges from 1/16” to 1/8” for guitars, and 3/32” to 1/8” for basses. Using the ruler, the measurement is made at the
pickup with the last fret depressed. Bass players with split "Precision" style pickups don’t need to worry about having both pickup
surfaces on the same plane – start with a setting using the ruler, and ne tune for uniform volume output.
INTONATION
The other bridge adjustment sets length of the string by moving the saddle forward or backward. Calibration of intonation assures
optimal tuning increments over the entire fretboard, and is easily adjusted with the aid of an electronic tuner.
The process involves comparing tune between a fretted note and harmonic at the twelfth fret. A properly intonated string will have
the exact same frequency under both conditions.
With the tuner ready, depress the string at the twelfth fret and observe the output frequency. Then, play a harmonic (with your nger
only slightly touching the string) at the twelfth fret and note that frequency. If the fretted note is sharp, increase string length; if at,
decrease length. Most bridges are adjusted using either a #1 or #2 Phillips screwdriver – make relatively small adjustments, retune, and
check intonation again. If you’re shortening the string, you’ll need to tap the top of the screwdriver handle to make sure the saddle
moves forward; otherwise the adjusting screw head may not be seated against the bridge chassis.
BECOME YOUR OWN BASIC TECHNICIAN
After you’ve completed a few setups, you should feel empowered! Not only should there be a sense of satisfaction from doing your
own setup, but you’ll start to become aware when further adjustments are needed. You’ll also probably notice the most signicant
truss rod adjustment will be necessary during Spring and Fall as temperatures change, and quickly take care of it.
We sincerely hope this guide has been helpful, and welcome your feedback. Thanks for reading...
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