Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to perform a setup on a Stratocaster guitar. A proper setup ensures that your guitar plays well, stays in tune, and sounds its best. In this article, we'll walk you through the process using a 1996 American Standard Stratocaster as an example thanks to Hogan's Hideout.
Introduction to Guitar Setup
Before diving into the setup process, it's important to understand the purpose and benefits of a guitar setup. While some experienced guitarists may rely on their intuition and feel, most beginners and even seasoned players will find it easier to follow recommended factory setup specifications. These specifications are typically available on the manufacturer's website and can be downloaded.
In this guide, we'll be using the setup numbers from Fender, the manufacturer of the Stratocaster. Although the specific numbers may vary depending on the guitar model and manufacturer, the general principles and steps apply to any guitar setup.
The Tools You'll Need
Before starting the setup, gather the necessary tools. While there are specialized tools available, you can perform a basic setup with just a few common items:
- Gem Dunlop string action gauge
- Automotive feeler gauge (10/1000 of an inch)
- Factory-style Allen key for truss rod adjustment
- Phillips head screwdrivers of various sizes
- Accurate tuner
- Flathead screwdriver (for strap button replacement)
- Sticky notepad or Post-It notepad
With these tools in hand, you're ready to begin the setup process.
Step 1: Tuning the Guitar
Always start a setup by ensuring your guitar is in tune. If needed, replace old strings with new ones and stretch them slightly before tuning. This step sets the foundation for the rest of the setup process.
Step 2: Adjusting Neck Relief
Next, you'll adjust the neck relief using the truss rod. The recommended neck relief for the Stratocaster is typically around 10/1000 of an inch, which provides a slight curvature to the neck. You can measure this at the 8th fret using the automotive feeler gauge.
To make the adjustment, turn the truss rod clockwise to tighten it, straightening the neck, or counterclockwise to loosen it, allowing the strings to pull the neck into a slight concave shape. Start with small adjustments, around 1/8th of a turn, and check the neck relief until it aligns with the recommended specifications.
Step 3: Setting Tremolo Setup
If your guitar has a floating tremolo system, it's important to set it up correctly. Fender recommends keeping the base plate of the tremolo approximately 1/8th of an inch off the body, allowing the tremolo to float. Adjusting the tension of the tremolo springs in the back of the guitar will help achieve this.
To set up the tremolo, you can use a sticky notepad or a similar object to hold the bridge plate at the desired height while you tighten the tremolo springs. Adjust the springs until the bridge sits flush against the notepad, and then retune the guitar to ensure it stays in the correct position.
Step 4: Adjusting String Action
String action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Using the gem Dunlop string action gauge, you can measure the string height at the 17th fret. For the Stratocaster, the recommended string action is typically around 5/64 of an inch for the high strings and 6/64 of an inch for the low strings.
To adjust the string action, lower or raise the bridge saddles using the appropriate Allen key. Make small adjustments and recheck the string action until it matches the recommended specifications. This step helps ensure comfortable playing and prevents buzzing or fretting out when playing notes.
Step 5: Setting Intonation
Intonation refers to the accuracy of each string's pitch across the fretboard. To set the intonation, play the open string and then fret the 12th fret of each string. Compare the pitch of the fretted note with the open string. If the fretted note is sharp or flat, adjustments to the saddle position are necessary.
Using a tuner, adjust the saddle position forward or backward until the fretted note matches the pitch of the open string. Repeat this process for each string, making small adjustments as needed. Proper intonation ensures that your guitar stays in tune as you play up and down the neck.
Step 6: Adjusting Pickup Height
The final step is to adjust the pickup height. This step affects the overall output, tone, and balance of the pickups. Fender recommends setting the pickup height around 4/32 of an inch for the bass side and 3/32 of an inch for the treble side.
Using a screwdriver, adjust the height screws on each pickup to achieve the desired height. Make sure the pickups are parallel to the strings and adjust the screws evenly on each side. Experiment with different heights to find the sweet spot that suits your playing style and tonal preferences.
Final Touch: Strap Button Replacement
In the video, the presenter also replaces the strap buttons on the guitar. This is an optional step but can provide added security and peace of mind when playing live or while practicing. Simply remove the old strap buttons using a flathead screwdriver and replace them with new ones, ensuring they are securely tightened.
Remember to retune the guitar after making any adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
That's it! With these steps, you can perform a basic setup on a Stratocaster or any other guitar. Keep in mind that every guitar is unique, and your personal preferences may vary. Don't be afraid to experiment and make minor adjustments to suit your playing style and preferences.
By following the correct order of steps and using the right tools, you can achieve a well-set-up guitar that plays beautifully and brings out the best in your playing.
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