Topmusicanswers
If the note on the 12th fret is flat, that would mean that the saddle for that string needs to be moved forward toward the headstock. If the note on the 12th fret is sharp, that would mean that the saddle for that string needs to be moved back away from the headstock.
- Why is my guitar out of tune at the 12th fret?
- Why is the 12th fret important?
- How high should the action be at the 12th fret?
Why is my guitar out of tune at the 12th fret?
Guitar Intonation Explained
If the note at the 12th fret is out of tune (more than a few cents off) from the open note, you probably need to adjust your intonation. When intonation is set, the string length is adjusted by moving the saddle closer or farther from the bridge.
Why is the 12th fret important?
A 12-fret guitar has its bridge further from the soundhole, closer to the lower bout, allowing it to sit on a more flexible place on the top and offering more sustain on smaller bodies.
How high should the action be at the 12th fret?
Measuring at the 12th fret (as in the photo), the action height should be 2.6 mm for Steel String Acoustic guitar, 1.8 for electric, 2.0mm for bass and 3mm for a Classical.
