How to find me - appointment only
Email or text me for an appointment. I’m in Sutton, SW London.
Let me know when would suit you best - but I don’t do mornings!
Bring your guitar for an free assessment. If I don’t think I can make a real difference, I’ll say so and not waste your time or mine.
I’ll give you a maximum price and proposed completion date. If any new parts look like they’re required, we’ll agree a price on those.
When the guitar’s ready for collection I’ll send you an invoice and we’ll agree a collection time.
You can pay me by cash, PayPal or direct bank transfer.
I’m Ron; I’ve been tinkering with guitars since I was a teenager. In my 20’s I ran my own custom build company, then worked for the UK’s biggest guitar manufacturer - Watkins - before settling down to a life writing computer software. At home though, I never stopped messing with guitars, buying, selling, customising and re-working them, ending up building several Partscasters. Now retired, I’ve trimmed back the collection and gone back to my roots. With a life-time of collecting tools and watching the industry, I can bring my experience to help you get the most out of the guitars you already have.
Basic Set Up - Overall clean and adjust the neck relief, bridge height, intonation - £50
Deluxe Set Up - As Basic plus fret level, crown & polish - £100
Tremolo Set Up when fitted - £20 extra
Wiring repairs - from £25 plus parts
Replacement parts - from £35 plus parts; contact for free quote
Re-string - £15 plus strings at cost; basic set-up not required but recommended
Partscaster builds - £250 minimum plus parts, come and discuss
I recommend D’Addario strings but I’ll fit whatever you want
As a guitar player, you want your instrument to sound and play its best. A crucial step in achieving this is through a process called "setting up" your guitar. Here, we'll delve into the world of guitar set up, explaining what it means, why it's necessary, and how to determine if your guitar needs one.
Setting up a guitar refers to the process of adjusting various components of the instrument to optimize its playability, tone, and overall performance. This involves fine-tuning aspects such as the neck relief, action height, intonation, and pickup height. A well-set-up guitar feels comfortable to play and sounds its best, allowing you to express your musical ideas more freely.
The process can vary depending on the type of guitar (acoustic, electric, bass) and the player's preferences. A typical setup includes:
- Neck Relief Adjustment: Ensuring the neck has the right amount of curvature.
- Action Height Adjustment: Setting the string height above the fretboard for optimal playability.
- Intonation Adjustment: Setting the bridge to make sure the guitar is in tune along the entire fretboard.
- Pickup Height Adjustment: Optimizing the distance between the pickups and strings for balanced output.
- String Replacement: Installing new strings to maintain tone quality.
- Tremolo (or Vibrato) Adjustment: Setting the spring tension to ensure the tremolo operates as desired and returns to pitch.
A proper setup is essential for several reasons:
1. Playability: A well-set-up guitar is easier to play, reducing finger fatigue and allowing for more fluid movement.
2. Tone Quality: Adjustments can enhance the guitar's tone, making it sound fuller and more resonant.
3. Tuning Stability: A good setup helps maintain tuning stability, so you spend less time tuning and more time playing.
4. Preventing Damage: Regular setups can help identify and prevent potential issues, such as neck warping or fret wear.
You should consider a guitar setup in the following situations:
- New Guitar: When you purchase a new guitar, it often requires a setup to match your playing style and preferences.
- Seasonal Changes: Changes in humidity and temperature can affect your guitar’s wood, necessitating a setup.
- String Changes: After changing string gauges or types, a setup is often needed to accommodate the different tension of the new strings.
- Performance Issues: If you notice buzzing, tuning instability, or difficulty playing, it’s time for a setup.
Here are some signs that indicate your guitar may need a setup:
- Buzzing Strings: If you hear buzzing when playing certain frets, it may indicate improper action or neck relief.
- Difficulty in Tuning: If your guitar doesn’t seem to play in tune, it may need intonation adjustments.
- Uncomfortable Action: If the strings feel too high or too low, a setup can help find the right balance.
- Inconsistent Tone: If your guitar sounds dull or uneven, it may benefit from pickup height adjustments or a new set of strings.
Yes, many guitarists choose to perform their own setups! With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can learn to make these adjustments yourself. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional guitar technician. They have the specialized tools, experience, and expertise to properly diagnose and address any issues and ensure your guitar is set up perfectly.
In conclusion, a guitar setup is a crucial process that enhances playability, tone, and overall performance. Whether you’re dealing with a new guitar, seasonal changes, or performance issues, understanding when and how to set up your guitar can make a significant improvement in your playing experience. While you can certainly perform a setup yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With a well-set-up guitar, you’ll want to play it more often and you’ll become a better player!
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