The Pros and Cons of Low Action Guitars
When my luthier set up my 12-string guitar similarly to how my 6-string was, he lowered the action. This change dramatically improved my playing experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable. Assuming the low action is accompanied by level frets and a straight neck, you will find that playing requires less effort and the experience feels much better. Intonation is also a critical factor to consider. Beginners might not notice the difference at first, but a well-adjusted guitar can feel like a whole different instrument compared to one they are still learning to play on.
Advantages of Low Action
Comfort and Ease: Low action provides less distance to press a guitar string to a fret, which allows for faster and less effort lead playing and easy chord formation. This makes it easier for players to transition between chords and play more sustained passages. Low action guitars can be particularly beneficial for players who have physical limitations or just want to play for longer periods without fatigue.
Improved Intonation: Lower action facilitates easier fretting and results in better intonation. When strings are pressed with less force, they are less likely to vibrate improperly, leading to more accurate tuning. This can be especially noticeable when playing higher fretted notes.
Increased Practice Time: When the guitar is set up for low action, it allows players to focus more on sound and technique rather than how sore their hands are. This can help improve overall playing quality and reduce hand fatigue.
Disadvantages of Low Action
Volume and Tone: While low action has many benefits, it can also lead to a reduction in volume due to the reduced vibrational amplitudes of the strings. For some players, this may not be a significant issue, but others might find that the tone is compromised when the action is too low.
Buzzing and Setup Issues: One of the main disadvantages of low action is the potential for buzzing. If the strings are too low, they may vibrate against the frets, causing unwanted noise. Adjustments to the neck and bridge may be needed to prevent buzzing. Additionally, guitars are in a continuous state of change, and even a well-set up low action guitar can develop fret buzz if the guitar changes due to humidity, temperature, or wear and tear.
Choice of Playing Style: Players who prefer to pick forcefully may find that low action guitars with very low strings are not suitable. The strings may buzz, and the action might not provide enough clearance to play aggressively without issues. On the other hand, some players, such as bluegrass players, prefer a higher than average action to maximize projection and ensure that the strings sound clear and bright when played at full volume.
Best Practices for Setting Up a Low Action Guitar
Experimentation: The best advice is to experiment and find the action that suits your hands and playing style best. Some players enjoy the lowest possible action, which may compromise the tone and volume. Conversely, players, such as bluegrass players, may prefer a higher action to maximize the guitar's projection and clarity.
Regular Maintenance: If you choose to have a low action, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that the guitar remains in good condition. This includes regular checks and adjustments to the neck, bridge, and frets to prevent buzzing and maintain optimal playability.
Awareness of Adjustments: Even guitars set up for low action may require adjustments from time to time. Pay attention to any changes in playability, and don't hesitate to seek professional help to ensure your guitar remains in top condition.
Electric Guitars: Electric guitars with individual saddle bridges for each string are generally easier to set up for low action. The individual saddles allow for precise adjustments, making it easier to reduce the action without causing unwanted buzzing.
Conclusion
Whether a low action guitar is right for you depends on your playing style, preferences, and the specific needs of your music. While it offers many benefits in terms of comfort and ease of play, it also comes with potential drawbacks such as buzzing and compromised volume. By understanding the trade-offs and regularly maintaining your guitar, you can enjoy the full benefits of a low action setup while minimizing any negative effects.