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       #Post#: 16--------------------------------------------------
       Setup Bass or Guitar
   DIR By: Fred Jam
       Date: November 2, 2024, 9:46 am
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       Thanks to member SkidMark for sharing his routine for setup:
       Lets talk Guitar or Bass setup.
       Setting up a guitar can make all the difference in how it feels,
       sounds, and plays. Different guitars, different genre, different
       strings, different players, all have unique requirements. Here’s
       the basic method I use to help keep my guitars and bass in top
       shape:
       All measurements are made with the guitar tuned to pitch.
       Make adjustments gradually for the best results!
       Check and Adjust Truss Rod
       The truss rod controls neck curvature (relief). To check it,
       press down on the first and the fret at the neck joint of the
       low E string, then look at the gap around the 7th fret. A slight
       gap is good; too much means it’s bowed. Use a truss rod tool to
       adjust in small increments, clockwise/tighter for less relief
       (flatter) and counterclockwise/loosen for more relief (more
       bow). I like the smallest of gaps on most of my guitars. String
       gauge and bridge type may have it dead flat or up to .010" of
       gap.  I like my basses with a slight gap.
       Set the Action
       Action is the height of the strings above the fretboard,
       affecting both ease of play and tone. Lower action is generally
       easier to play but can cause fret buzz if too low. Adjust the
       bridge height (or saddle, for acoustics) to your preferred
       action. Measure at the 12th fret for accuracy. I use a 6" steel
       rule or string action gauge. I set my low E to 1.5 mm and high E
       to 1.0. I set my bass slightly higher at 2.5 to 3.0 mm at the
       Low E 12th and 1.5 - 2.0 mm on the high E. Again, string gauge,
       bridge type, playing type, and neck radius maybe higher or
       lower.
       Adjust Intonation
       Intonation ensures each note sounds in tune as you move up the
       fretboard. Check the open string and the 12th fret harmonic
       against the 12th fret fretted note. If they’re not in tune,
       adjust the saddle forward or back until they match.
       Pickup Height
       Set pickups close enough to the strings for good output, but not
       too close (this can interfere with the string's vibration).
       Adjust height based on your tone preference; closer for more
       punch, further for a softer, rounder tone.
       Tune and Test
       Finally, tune up and play your guitar. Test for any buzz, dead
       notes, or tuning instability.
       There are some excellent guides on YouTube. This is what works
       for me. :)
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