• Ernie Ball
  • MusicMan
  • Sterling by MusicMan

ruso

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 1, 2008
Messages
102
Location
Wheeling, WV
Ok, I've tried the 9's on my JP7 long enough and I just can't get used to the slop of the lower strings. When I pick up my Ibanez which I never play now, the heavier gauge just feels so much better. I think it's time for me to put those 10's on that have been sitting on my desk.

I'm aware that I'll need to adjust the claw on the trem and that I may need to adjust the truss rod and possibly enlarge the slots in the top nut. Now am I correct in saying that I shouldn't have to adjust the intonation or saddle height? Because, technically, since the strings lay against the top nut and saddle and the string isn't exactly suspended from its center point, the spacing between the strings and frets shouldn't change, right?

I'm sure this has been discussed a million times on this forum but I just don't want to screw anyhting up on my now favorite guitar. :D
 
Last edited:

TNT

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 18, 2005
Messages
3,576
Location
Oakland - Raider Nation!
Yes,

If you want it perfectly:

You need to adj the truss rod, springs.

The saddle(s) height can remain, the action doesn't change.

You will have to re-intonate.

The space between strings change microscopically narrower.

I wouldn't cut the nut though - you may want to go back to 9's.
 

ruso

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 1, 2008
Messages
102
Location
Wheeling, WV
Yes, If you want it perfectly:

You need to adj the truss rod, springs.

The saddle(s) height can remain, the action doesn't change.

You will have to re-intonate.

The space between strings change microscopically narrower.

I wouldn't cut the nut though - you may want to go back to 9's.

So the saddles should ever really need adjusted right? Are they adjusted according to the radius of the fretboard?

TNT ... one word ....

BOOM

I'm scared. :eek: ;)
 

TNT

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 18, 2005
Messages
3,576
Location
Oakland - Raider Nation!
TNT ... one word ....BOOM

Uh oh,

JD, is that good or bad??? Am I in trouble now??

Oh, well, I'm used to being in the "doghouse", but I'm really trying hard these days!!


Yes, saddles form the radius, not the trem plate. When I adjust my action I only do it on a "per string" bases, not entire string spectrum, by "shimming" the individual saddles ( I NEVER adjust the Pivot screws itself except to get the trem plate "level.)

So get a pack of "shims" (and extra saddles if you like, to mix and match) and you can achieve perfect action to you liking.:)
 
Top Bottom