Guide to Setting Intonation on an Electric Guitar

Setting the intonation on an electric guitar is an important aspect of ensuring proper tuning and accurate pitch. It is a meticulous process that involves adjusting individual string saddles to compensate for the slight errors in pitch that occur due to the guitar's construction. This guide will walk you through the process, considering both the common factors and the specific nuances that differ between acoustic and electric guitars.

Understanding Intonation

Intonation is the process of ensuring that notes played at specific fret positions are accurately in tune with the open strings. This is different from tuning, which measures the accuracy of the open strings. Intonation adjustments are made at the bridge, affecting the distance of the saddles from the nut. Common factors that influence intonation include the length of the strings, the truss rod, and saddle adjustments, all best handled by experienced guitar technicians. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's best to consult a professional to avoid damaging your guitar.

Steps to Set Intonation

Setting the intonation on an electric guitar typically involves the following steps:

Tune the Open String: Begin by ensuring the open string is tuned to the correct pitch. Adjust the tuning pegs as needed. Play the 12th Fret Harmonic: Lightly touch the string at the 12th fret and pluck it. Release the string after plucking. Compare to the Open String: Tune the 12th fret note to match the open string pitch. If the 12th fret note is sharp, move the saddle away from the neck in small increments. If it is flat, move the saddle towards the neck.

Both the open string and the 12th fret note should be accurately in tune for the intonation to be correct. This step may require multiple adjustments and can be time-consuming, taking away from the open tuning pitch, and playing repeatedly until both notes match.

Common Factors in Intonation Adjustment

Several factors come into play when setting the intonation on an electric guitar:

String Length: Different string types and gauges can affect the intonation. Thicker strings may need more saddle movement than thinner ones. Truss Rod and Neck Relief: Proper adjustment of the truss rod ensures consistent string action and affects intonation. A guitar with too much relief may need the truss rod adjusted first. Bridge Saddle Adjustments: Adjusting the position of the saddles changes the intonation. Moving saddles closer to the bridge loosens the string tension, while moving them closer to the neck tightens the tension.

Resource for Further Learning

To better understand the process, you can watch tutorials on YouTube. Many experienced luthiers and guitar technicians provide detailed instructions and demonstrations. While you can certainly learn to set the intonation yourself, some guitars, especially those with complex designs like Floyd Rose tuners, may require professional assistance to avoid incorrect settings.

Here are a few recommended YouTube videos to get you started:

How to Intonate Your Electric Guitar (YouTube Tutorial) Advanced Electric Guitar Intonation Guide (YouTube Tutorial)

Conclusion

Setting the intonation on an electric guitar is a detailed process that requires patience and attention to detail. While it is possible to learn and adjust the intonation yourself, it is often recommended to consult a professional, especially if you are not experienced in guitar setup. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the resources mentioned, you can accurately set the intonation on your electric guitar, ensuring clear and consistent tuning from every fret.