Complete Guitar Setup: Easy Step-By-Step Guide

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  • Опубліковано 2 тра 2024
  • **Update**
    I've misplaced the decimal point in the neck relief tables! They should read:
    7.25": 0.012"
    9.5" to 12": 0.010"
    15" to 17": 0.008"
    Setting up your electric guitar can completely change how it feels and sounds for the better! In this video, I'll show you my easy step-by-step method to setup an electric guitar.
    Here's a link to everything I use in this video (links to Amazon - as an Amazon Associate, I'll earn a small commission on qualifying purchases!):
    amzn.to/48e1Q6Q
    Tools required:
    - a phillips head screwdriver
    - a ruler that can measure in 64ths of an inch
    - a hex key that’s the right size for your truss rod
    - Either a hex key (for Strat style bridges) or flathead screwdriver (for tune-o-matic bridges)
    - A capo
    - A set of feeler gauges
    - a set of new guitar strings
    - A guitar tuner (one that can take a direct signal from your guitar)
    I'm using the GrooveTech Stagehand Guitar Tech Kit which includes everything I'm using except the truss rod hex key, strings, and tuner.
    Chapters:
    00:00 Intro
    00:29 How often to set up your guitar
    00:59 Tools required
    01:51 Step 1: Change your strings
    02:33 Step 2: Neck relief
    05:17 Step 3: String height
    07:16 Step 4: Pickup height
    08:45 Step 5: Intonation
    10:41 Final thoughts

КОМЕНТАРІ • 193

  • @ConorRocksYT
    @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому +16

    Here's everything I use in this video (affiliate link, not sponsored!): amzn.to/48e1Q6Q
    Chapters:
    00:00 Intro
    00:29 How often to set up your guitar
    00:59 Tools required
    01:51 Step 1: Change your strings
    02:33 Step 2: Neck relief
    05:17 Step 3: String height
    07:16 Step 4: Pickup height
    08:45 Step 5: Intonation
    10:41 Final thoughts
    *Update*
    I've misplaced the decimal point in the neck relief tables! They should read:
    7.25": 0.012"
    9.5" to 12": 0.010"
    15" to 17": 0.008"

  • @seananderson4248
    @seananderson4248 Місяць тому +13

    I bought a new fender strat in 1987 -- played in bands and clubs for a long time -- finally someone offered to set it up for me - in 2015! I had never had it set up - things were different back then if you did not know someone or no one told you (the shop I bought it at should have said something) you did not know.....I was amazed when the action was lowered how much better it played!

  • @kritiko
    @kritiko 3 місяці тому +14

    One of the best quick in details explanation on the entire youtube library 👍

  • @IvyHillBeauty
    @IvyHillBeauty 11 місяців тому +53

    I've literally never set up my guitar... Oops! Thank you, this was helpful!

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому +7

      Thank you, happy to help! It's a handy skill to have - good luck giving it a go!

    • @alcatraz3539
      @alcatraz3539 4 місяці тому +1

      Nor have I. I've always just played it (badly) straight out the box!

    • @alcatraz3539
      @alcatraz3539 4 місяці тому

      Until I've watched this and then hopefully it'll play and sound a lot better?

    • @fnurbz
      @fnurbz 4 місяці тому

      Hahahahaha yeeeah me two 😅

  • @pmd7914
    @pmd7914 4 місяці тому +16

    The blanked numbers at 3:50 are
    NECK RADIUS
    7.25"
    9.5"-12"
    15"-17"
    RELIEF
    .012” (0.3 mm)
    .010” (0.25 mm)
    .008” (0.2 mm)

  • @stuartlauchlan7061
    @stuartlauchlan7061 4 місяці тому +19

    I've always been a bit nervous of playing with the setup of my guitars, but your guide is really user-friendly and easy to follow, so it's time to give it a try. Thanks for sharing.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks, glad it's useful 😊 let me know how you get on!

  • @danphelps371
    @danphelps371 10 місяців тому +8

    Thank you a very thorough lesson. I,m glad you shared you didn’t use the capo when setting the strings height. I just got done setting up my Fender Stratocaster. I just followed your advice. Thanks again for sharing.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thanks for your kind words, Dan - glad I could help! Happy playing! 😊

  • @Tiffany-Rose
    @Tiffany-Rose 4 місяці тому +5

    Ive got a new one coming in the mail shortly and def saving this to use! You made it very approachable and not as intimidating as I thought it would be. Thank you!

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Glad I could help! Enjoy your new guitar 😊

    • @Tiffany-Rose
      @Tiffany-Rose 4 місяці тому +1

      @@ConorRocksYT thank you, super excited 🤗

  • @michaelthomas9991
    @michaelthomas9991 10 місяців тому +12

    Great step-by-step guide. Thanks for making this a simple exercise.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thanks Michael, glad I could help!

  • @donald-parker
    @donald-parker 4 місяці тому +6

    I check set up every time I change strings (and check it again a couple of days later after playing on them) and every seasonal change and every time I take a guitar travelling with me when I get to a new location. I definitely agree with the order you recommend (relief, action, intonation). And good tip about keeping fender style saddles level - so many people think tilting the saddles is part of matching the fretboard radius, and that is just wrong. A titled saddle can rob you of tone, sustain, and tuning stability. I never bothered with feeler gauges for adjusting relief - I just hold a string down at the 1st fret and where the neck joins the body and tap at about the 7th fret to see how much movement there is. IMO there is no "right or wrong" - it depends on how hard you play, the string gauges you use and the type of music you play (a little fret buzz will never be noticed with high gain playing but might be bothersome for a rich clean tone). I adjust PU height for sound. Some folks might prefer balanced volume when changing from neck to bridge - some may prefer more output. As long as they are not too close to the strings, I feel it is a matter of taste and sound (for example, on strat style guitars I tend to keep the middle PU a lot lower - I just prefer the sound I get in positions 4 and 2 that way). I would suggest never to adjust the truss rod more than 1/4 turn without checking, and if it is not good enough after two adjustments, wait a day or two before going further. I agree completely that anyone serious about guitar should learn to do this. And I would add that, a lot of nubes seem to think getting a "pro set up" is good for life. Wrong. Guitars change. And setting up to "factory specs" is a compromise. Playable by anyone but optimal for no one. The only person who can dial in the perfect set up for your style, sound, and choice of string is you.

  • @mattwaters6987
    @mattwaters6987 5 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for sharing this information. Will give it a go! 😊

  • @ComputerWhiz_
    @ComputerWhiz_ 10 днів тому +2

    I bought a guitar for $25. I had to replace the missing bridge and strings. I followed this guide and the sound difference is night and day!

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 днів тому +2

      $25?! What a steal! Glad I could help, enjoy your new guitar! 😊

  • @austins2133
    @austins2133 11 місяців тому +5

    Thank you for making this video it really helped me out. This is the most in depth set up video in youtube.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому +1

      Thanks for your comment Austin, I really appreciate it! I'm glad I could help 😊

  • @korani8191
    @korani8191 14 днів тому +1

    I’m coming back to this video when I buy my first electric😌👌 Thanks for this great video😌🙃

  • @BDChupacabra
    @BDChupacabra Місяць тому +1

    It's so cool to get back into this. I've been a guitar player for 14 years now and i just got back into playing seriously again, and bought a new guitar. Refreshing myself on my setup always feels good.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  Місяць тому

      that's awesome 😊 enjoy your new guitar!

  • @Chimp_No_1
    @Chimp_No_1 4 місяці тому +1

    Really helpful ! Thank you !

  • @frantic1987
    @frantic1987 4 місяці тому +3

    Very kindness and fabulous guiter maintenance move I ever see.
    Thank-you sir.

  • @J0HN01DATA
    @J0HN01DATA 10 місяців тому +3

    I check intonation and any new fret buzz about every 3 or 4 weeks. Good information, helpful reminders. Thx

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thanks Johno - sounds like you've got a good routine!

  • @meinhendl
    @meinhendl Місяць тому

    great video ,very helpful ! thank you !

  • @MrTravelerX
    @MrTravelerX 4 місяці тому +1

    This is a wonderful and clear guide. Thank you 🙏🏻
    I will sure use it i my next strings change.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Thank you! 😊 Let me know how you get on!

  • @kicikocani1
    @kicikocani1 4 місяці тому +1

    thanks mate much appreciated

  • @michaelpepper7230
    @michaelpepper7230 4 місяці тому +1

    Very good information and description of what to do. I just built a kit guitar and need to set it up.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Glad I could help! Enjoy your new guitar! 😊

  • @RussellEvans-mx5gl
    @RussellEvans-mx5gl 11 місяців тому +3

    Very well explained.... excellent and very useful video.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому

      Thanks Russell, I appreciate it! Glad you found it useful!

  • @torenerhus3591
    @torenerhus3591 4 місяці тому +2

    When you do the intonation you should use the neck pick-up and set it to the lowest point. Then you can intonate your guitar accurate.

  • @kamarulhisyam5281
    @kamarulhisyam5281 3 місяці тому +1

    It me right now having this issue and i feel like i need to do something new such a good set up after long times played..ive been searching for a weeks to select the best teacher tutorial at youtu..and today i just found my good teacher for what i need..thanks bro for sharing this even its just a basic lesson but its give me so so much satisfaction about how to set up the guitar..thank you agains.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      Thanks, Kamarul! Enjoy your newly set up guitar! 😊

  • @gracielarodriguez4644
    @gracielarodriguez4644 Місяць тому

    Thanks

  • @bobbymalta73
    @bobbymalta73 3 місяці тому +1

    Thank You.

  • @JayThatsMe
    @JayThatsMe 2 місяці тому

    Great stuff! Thank you. I can apply this easily to my standard American strat. Great work!

  • @percythrower9193
    @percythrower9193 Місяць тому +2

    Best video on this that I've seen on YT out of quite a few. I've alway been too afraid to take this on but your explanations and the way you shot the video were excellent. I'm going get hold of a cheapo guitar to practice on! Big thank you for this - I feel veritably inspired to have a crack at this now. I've subscribed to your channel as it looks great. Cheers and good luck - PT x

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  Місяць тому

      Thanks Percy, good to have you around! Good luck with your setup! 😊

  • @roxievazz9570
    @roxievazz9570 11 місяців тому +2

    Great help. Thank you.

  • @MattQrillz
    @MattQrillz 3 місяці тому +1

    This should be a beginners first encounter with a UA-cam guitar lesson. This has helped my quality of sound and ease of use immensly.
    Cannot overstate it enough. Thanks a tonne. You have my sub.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      Thanks Matt, good to have you around! 😊

    • @MattQrillz
      @MattQrillz 3 місяці тому

      Credit where credits due man 👍🏻
      I'm gonna have a play and flick the G-string tonight , I'll do it to your content 😅

  • @FenderBenderBilly
    @FenderBenderBilly 10 місяців тому +3

    Super helpful thanks

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thanks Brett, happy to help!

  • @user-xu3th7hc4h
    @user-xu3th7hc4h 4 місяці тому +1

    two things: I only turn the bridge and pick up screws 1/2 turn at a time then re-measure or re-test. I also make a clear mark on the screwdriver shaft ( you can also put a piece of blue tape on the shaft and mark it there) so I can actually see how far I have turned it. thx

  • @juliodefreitas157
    @juliodefreitas157 10 місяців тому +3

    Awesome video ❤

  • @jamesgretsch4894
    @jamesgretsch4894 8 місяців тому +1

    Thanks for the tutorial. I just Subscribed and liked.

  • @ravingcyclist624
    @ravingcyclist624 4 місяці тому +1

    Excellent video! Very helpful info. I have a new guitar on the way.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Thank you, glad it helped! Enjoy your new guitar! 😊

  • @robphillips8351
    @robphillips8351 3 місяці тому +2

    Every few string changes or when weather seasonal changes. Another good thing to check is that frets are seated correctly, this is a common issue and a fretting hammer is cheap a few light taps usually suffice. And for the more advanced in repair/setup a good fret level and polish goes a long ways in playability and improved tone. But take to a repairman if unsure. If you have a old beater or access to a junked guitar to practice leveling frets there are some good videos through various places like Stewart McDonald, dan erlwine etc that can teach you, tool's like a fret leveling beam fret files aren't to expensive, anywhere from around 30 to 75 average and More pricey options about 100 to 200 a little investment and some practice and these tools pay for themselves after just one usage. Considering average fees for level and polish and possible crown.. average price for this is 150 and up.. and spanned over a few guitars say 3 and that's 450 to 500 bucks average.. price of another ibanez rg, mim fender, clasicvibe, schecter or another mid priced guitar, guitar kit etc.

  • @jojones7709
    @jojones7709 11 днів тому +1

    after 50 years of playing ,setting up .. i would recommend on strat type necks to slacken off the d and g strings ,lift them out of the nut slots before using the allen key .
    i've damaged many a string by pressing against them with the key.

  • @jimshunamon2512
    @jimshunamon2512 2 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for the excellent video! I have to admit I'm a bit nervous to dive into this but I always wanted to learn to do it. I bought all the tools months ago (including a few not mentioned here) to work on a beat up old strat knockoff but haven't had the courage to start yet but you have given me some confidence to give it a try. Wish me luck, cause I bought 4 new PRS SE guitars in the past 3 months and only 1 of them came with a full setup. The other 3 need quite a bit of attention 😳
    Thanks again for the inspiration. 😎

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  2 місяці тому

      Thanks Jim, as long as you take it slow you'll be completely fine! Enjoy your new guitars - PRS SE's are a great choice! 😊

  • @otoms
    @otoms 4 місяці тому +1

    This a nice summary. There are many videos on UA-cam covering the same topic but most of them go way too long. There are a couple of less common things that could be added. One, setting floating bridge/spring tension, which might be relevant if you change string gauge. Two, setting bridge pivot post height for a two-point tremolo.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +1

      Thank you! 😊 I'll get a video on floating bridges (and two points!) on my list!

  • @GT-yw8ue
    @GT-yw8ue 4 місяці тому

    Worth learning how to set up on a cheap guitar. It’s easy to cause small problems that can be hard to unpick if you’re not used to doing it.

  • @terrybrown8151
    @terrybrown8151 26 днів тому +1

    Thanks so much 😊

  • @Zubarev09
    @Zubarev09 3 місяці тому +1

    You are thr Best!!!❤❤❤

  • @PtolemyXVII
    @PtolemyXVII 3 місяці тому +2

    This was a great explanation…I’ve come to the conclusion I rather pay someone to do this for me 😂

  • @user-qt2nm8yq8r
    @user-qt2nm8yq8r Місяць тому +1

    Thank you brother for the tutorial,I'm a pro drummer and have always been fascinated with the guitar. So I bought one and am definately a beginner, while pounding the skins I've always watched both of my guitarists work magic. Never figured my fingers had the flexibility for the neck, so, I've learned something benificial (pardon the spelling). I just subscribed and look forward to more vids. Rock Steady! "IronWolf". Drummer for "SunCat & the IronWolf".

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  Місяць тому

      That's great, hope it helped! Drums are like magic to me - hope to learn them one day! 😊

  • @javierdiazsantana
    @javierdiazsantana 11 місяців тому +4

    Great vid!!! Hopefully it was on youtube as simply explained as this when i started out. Ended up with a Strat bridge falling away from the body from very little spring tension, looks kinda funny.
    Also useful for a LP or such. I recall my LP came tuned to F and the strings were very high, what a pain on the left hand...
    Greetings

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому

      Thanks, Javier! I appreciate it 😊

  • @gergemall
    @gergemall 3 місяці тому +1

    Thx . I played pro for years and my strat was never set up properly. Understand that now . We just played. Great video.

  • @SuperJ333
    @SuperJ333 3 місяці тому +1

    Yes, but quite often you'll find that although the intonation is perfect when checking it at the 12th fret, it's not perfect if you check it elsewhere.
    So you play the bass E string, play the 12th fret and it's E, but then check the 3rd fret and it's well sharp - so there goes your G chord, for example!
    Ditto on the other strings, especially the G string - it's never anywhere near A at the 2nd fret!
    So I take the view that a lot of what I'm going to play is the chords inside the first 5 frets, and it's more important for the intonation to be right there - if I'm going to zoom up the neck for a solo I'm probably going to be bending and using vibrato and all that, so it's not so vital that the intonation is spot on.

  • @sallevadorradman1938
    @sallevadorradman1938 2 дні тому

    The guitar center tech set up my squire Telecaster when I had it restrung after first purchasing it. Beyond that it hasn't really been set-up. The neck pickup won't move it's built into the pick guard. I'm picking up my first Strat on Thursday. I might have it set up I might not. It felt fine in the store. I really want to play it.

  • @user-fo2ye3jl9i
    @user-fo2ye3jl9i 4 місяці тому +1

    Cool man. 🎸 Thankyou for sharing 🎸. Yep ilv got reset my axe today 🎸 fret buzzing ECT . The hole shuobudel 😂🎸. From New Zealand 🌏

  • @1rsalc
    @1rsalc 2 місяці тому

    Great step by step instruction. Just one question: 4:45 that looks like less than 1/4 turn. Am I missing something?

  • @etherlords88
    @etherlords88 9 місяців тому +1

    Try setting up a floating bridge like Floyd rose and the intonations and the saddle level and the fretting and so on 😅😅😅

  • @bencrystalofficial
    @bencrystalofficial 3 місяці тому

    For string height, I didn't have a ruler that went smaller than 1/16th increments and there was some buffer distance, but I realized that a medium Fender 351 pick (the classic kind of red, white, blue, and black picks) are .6-.8mm thick, so averaging to .7mm is 0.02756. 3/64ths of an inch is 0.046875, 4/64ths is 0.0625, and 5/64ths is 0.078125, so you could roughly use the edge of 2-3 picks stacked as a measurement on the fly!

  • @danphelps371
    @danphelps371 10 місяців тому +4

    Thank you for a great lesson. I have a question do you remove all your strings at one time when cleaning your guitar neck or do you do one at a time. I have always heard your neck could go out of adjustment if you took all the strings off at one time. I really respect your opinion. Thank you. Have a great day .

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому +2

      Thanks for your kind words and your question!
      Personally, I take all my strings off at once as it gives me better access to everything I need to clean, especially the electronics.
      I've never had a problem so far. But, I do understand the rationale for doing one at a time.
      If you're doing a full setup anyway, then I'd say take them off as you'll be tweaking the neck anyway!

  • @mikesakas
    @mikesakas 4 місяці тому +1

    Change of seasons, moving from Florida to New York...

  • @CTBAB
    @CTBAB 5 місяців тому

    The string moves when you slide a feeler gauge under the string. Would it be better to use the edge of a long metal ruler?

  • @censored7881
    @censored7881 6 місяців тому

    OMFG someone who actually knows how to correctly check neck relief! I can hardly believe it! Thanks for the video.

  • @varethika
    @varethika 10 місяців тому +2

    Interesting! 👍

  • @123uzuz
    @123uzuz 3 місяці тому

    Great video, but no mention of the tremol?

  • @TheGmcFilms
    @TheGmcFilms 10 місяців тому +2

    Decent chap who knows what he's doing ...G...

  • @BryanClark-gk6ie
    @BryanClark-gk6ie Місяць тому

    On my squire stat' when I flip the switch all the way back it gets bright' does not sound like the other pickups?

  • @certifiedl6ner
    @certifiedl6ner 10 місяців тому +3

    Can i just measure the height on the 8th fret like there were shown in the spreadsheet or do i have to do it with passing a ruler through. I´m kinda confused what the spreadsheet is for. Nice Video btw👍

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому +2

      Thanks for your question - and liking the video! 😊
      The spreadsheet shows the ideal size of the gap between the top of the 8th fret and the string, depending on your guitars fretboard radius.
      These measurements are really, really small and can't accurately be measured by a ruler. For example, my guitar with a 9.5" fretboard radius need a 1/100th of an inch gap at the 8th fret.
      So, I use a feeler gauge that's 1/100th inch thick to feel the gap. If the gauge doesn't make contact with the fret and string (while the capo is on and the fret at the neck depressed) then I'll know it's too big. Likewise, if it's too tight I need a bigger gap.
      Ideally, the gauge should be in contact with both the fret and string and able to pass through smoothly.
      Hope that answers your question!

    • @certifiedl6ner
      @certifiedl6ner 10 місяців тому +1

      @@ConorRocksYT Ohh yeah that makes a lot more sense thx for explaining it to me 🙏

  • @pdglock19
    @pdglock19 4 місяці тому +1

    This is a great guide. Been scared to do my strat. Only thing not covered is curved neck. Do string height have to be set according to neck curvature or should they be all same height? That's what I always worry about.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому +2

      Thank you! I touch on this around 5:50. I set them each string to the same distance from the fretboard - which will follow the curve of the fretboard radius.
      Then, I'll adjust the string height to taste!
      Edit: one thing worth adding, the saddles themselves should be level! (If you have the kind of saddles that are adjusted individually!)

  • @jacksaintjack2844
    @jacksaintjack2844 5 місяців тому +1

    Intonation : What are your thoughts on playing the harmonic at the 12th fret and then comparing it to the fretted note at the 12th fret?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  5 місяців тому

      That's fine, too! The open string and a natural harmonic at the 12th fret will be the same pitch - so you can use either/or to compare it to the fretted 12th!

  • @stevebozkurt3478
    @stevebozkurt3478 3 місяці тому +1

    hi thanks for a great video really helps..question can u tell me the gauges size for string height to measure on 17 fret, thanks

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому +1

      Thank you! I don't use feeler gauges for strong height, but I start around 4/64ths to 5/64ths on the low E string side, and 3/64ths to 4/64ths on the high e side - and then adjust it to taste!

  • @StBlazeyModelWorld
    @StBlazeyModelWorld 10 місяців тому +2

    Great video and I've jumped aboard by subscribing. If others pointed this out - sorry - Your card link for cleaning the guitar does not appear :)

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thank you very much! 😊 and thanks for pointing that out - I didn't know! I'll get that sorted 😊

  • @robphillips8351
    @robphillips8351 3 місяці тому +1

    P.s. excellent video on set-up..

  • @konsty_2
    @konsty_2 10 місяців тому +2

    Hey, i just got my first guitar. I tuned it and noticed, that the neck was bending big time. I tryed to losen the truss screw and it kinda worked but it was rlly difficult to losen. Then i heard a loud crack, kinda like the wood split or smth but i couldnt see any damage. I stopped and retuned my guitar but its still bend a lot. Should i return it or pay someone to set it up for me?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому +1

      Hi, thanks for your comment - and congrats on getting your first guitar!
      Some creaking or cracking sounds are perfectly normal when adjusting the truss rod as the wood shifts. From what you've described, I wouldn't be worried. I don't think there's anything wrong with your guitar from the sounds of it.
      But, as you've just bought it, you can always take it back to the store and get them to check it out, for your own peace of mind. Any decent guitar store should take a look for free as part of their after-sales service (most places I've been to will even do a free set up!).
      In your situation, I think starting with the guitar shop makes the most sense - only because it's a good opportunity to get a pro look at it. Otherwise, I'd try making the adjustment again - following all the precautions (small turns, not forcing it) - and seeing how you get on. If it's still being tricky, then taking it to the store is a must.
      Good luck, and let me know how you get on!

    • @konsty_2
      @konsty_2 10 місяців тому +1

      @@ConorRocksYT thank you!

  • @tendingtropic7778
    @tendingtropic7778 2 місяці тому +1

    thanks for this. whats confusing to me is that some measure the string action at 12th fret, others at 17th, and also, should you capo the first fret yes/no?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  2 місяці тому

      No worries! 😊 Personally, I don't use a capo when setting the string height, and I've not had any problems so far!
      I measure at the 17th fret (or wherever your guitar's neck meets the body) as this removes any neck bow from the measurement, and therefore should be the closest the strings are to the fretboard.
      But, you can measure it wherever! You'll just need a slightly different measurement.
      These are only start measurements anyway, you can always adjust to preference afterwards!

  • @robcrtr798
    @robcrtr798 4 місяці тому +2

    When setting the intonation is it useful to play the 12th fret harmonic?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому

      Yup, either the fretted note or harmonic!
      With the harmonic, you don't risk bending the note with excess pressure like when you fret, which is a bit of a plus! 😊

  • @cmoxe4555
    @cmoxe4555 6 місяців тому +2

    3:29
    What if your guitar's a neck thru instead of a bolt on, where do I find the area where the 'body meets the neck'?
    Thanks!

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  6 місяців тому +1

      Which type of guitar do you have? If it's like a Les Paul, with a neck heel, I use the fret above the middle of the heel 😊

    • @cmoxe4555
      @cmoxe4555 6 місяців тому +1

      @@ConorRocksYT Glad to hear a reply!
      I use a Charvel Desolation Soloist DX1, and now i realise my mistake, it's not a neck thru, but rather a set neck!
      I apologise, but if you've got any advice on that, it would be greatly appreciated.
      Have a great day ahead! :)

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  6 місяців тому +1

      @@cmoxe4555 no worries! I've not used one myself, but from having a look I'd say use the 19th fret!
      Thank you - you too!

  • @jlambert12013
    @jlambert12013 3 місяці тому +16

    The only thing I don’t agree with in this video is when he said “ f you want it to be perfect take it to your local guitar store”

    • @DavidBostock-ti2fv
      @DavidBostock-ti2fv 18 днів тому +1

      Brings to mind: "The wheels of commerce are greased by profit, not thrift.". I recently went to local place, where I'm usually outnumbered by store employees 4 or 5 to 1. I said I wanted 11 strings. Salesman proceeded to introduce me to accessories on the counter and guitars behind me. I said I would be back later when I knew better about what I wanted. He said to bring the guitar. I don't think so. 11 strings, brand name, material and brand model name of material is what I'll ask for next time. He never asked acoustic or electric.

  • @Obliviousss_
    @Obliviousss_ 3 місяці тому

    Are you tuning the guitar to standard tuning with the capo on at 5:05 or no?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      You'll want to remove the capo first! But yeah, I'm tuning to standard.

  • @edmackey570
    @edmackey570 6 місяців тому +1

    my new donner jp-1000 was in tune out of the box. the B and G strings sound much louder and longer sustain than the other 4 strings. do I need to adjust the pickup height ?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  6 місяців тому

      Congrats on your new guitar - I'm a big fan of ES-335 style guitars, too! 😊
      I'd always recommend a full set up (if you're comfortable doing it) but to me, this just sounds like you just need to adjust your pickups pole pieces!
      I don't have a video on this channel showing you how to do it but if you search for "how to adjust humbucker pole pieces" you'll find the right answer 😊
      Let me know if you have any trouble!

    • @edmackey570
      @edmackey570 6 місяців тому +1

      so I took to the guitar store...and he played it and confirmed that the 2 strings wer much louder than the other 4.... He tested the outputs of the pickups and all were even so he said to try new strings...and problem solved...😃

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  6 місяців тому

      @@edmackey570 Nice! Glad it's sorted 😊 now you can enjoy your new guitar!

  • @enzoloveless132
    @enzoloveless132 3 місяці тому +1

    I set them up every season, specially here in New York where we go from scorching earth in the summer to way below zero in winter

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      Great idea! I do the same in England... when we move from rain to a slightly warmer rain!

  • @tendingtropic7778
    @tendingtropic7778 2 місяці тому

    why are the recommended neck relief/height numbers for each neck radius blanked out in the video?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  2 місяці тому +1

      I messed up a decimal place! They're in the pinned comment 😊

  • @Daftpunk90
    @Daftpunk90 18 днів тому +1

    What color is this Strat? Great video.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  17 днів тому +1

      Thanks! It's Arctic White, but I think it's yellowed a little bit over the years.

  • @peteradah4729
    @peteradah4729 6 місяців тому

    Please what do I do about my guitar it makes buzzing noise when connected to Flat amplifier even when it not being played

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  6 місяців тому

      Sorry to hear that, Peter! Can I check - does the buzzing go away when you touch the strings? (Not playing, just resting your hand on it)

  • @MichaliSarris
    @MichaliSarris 3 місяці тому +1

    I have a question about setting the intonation. When I play a note on the 12th fret it seems like it's double of the frequency of the open string. Is that supposed to be the case? Or does it actually need to be the exact same sound? Sorry for the dumb question, I'm completely new to this.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому +1

      Not a silly question - I can see how the wording can be tricky!
      You're right that it's meant to be twice the frequency (or round abouts!). They're both meant to be the same type of note (for example an "E" on the 6th string) but the 12th fret is an octave higher in pitch.

    • @MichaliSarris
      @MichaliSarris 3 місяці тому +1

      @@ConorRocksYT Thank you very much for the quick answer! Just got the intonation correctly set! I got a Larry Carlton S7 as my first guitar, very helpful video to let me set it up right away. One of strings broke immediately after tuning, so I put on a new set right away. Only thing I still noticed just now is very slight fret buzz (I think) on the A and D strings. Going to tighten up the neck slightly to see if that'll help.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      @@MichaliSarris that looks like a great guitar! Hopefully a little adjustment should get rid of that buzzing!

    • @MichaliSarris
      @MichaliSarris 3 місяці тому

      @@ConorRocksYT Everything seemed fine, but there was still buzzing on the low E string (when played a bit louder). Even after I tried to tighten the rod. Then I tried to just make the action of just that string a bit higher, and that seems to make it better. Was that the right way to approach it?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому +1

      ​@@MichaliSarris yup, that's what I'd do! As long as the action on that string is still easy to use (as in it didn't have to be raised super high).
      If it's too high, the buzz might be caused by an uneven fret (or frets) - in which case a fret dressing would fix that (that's something you'll need done by a shop!)

  • @PtolemaicTaweret
    @PtolemaicTaweret Місяць тому +1

    I find adjusting to a 0.008" neck relief very finicky and difficult. Is that normal and to be expected because it's so small?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  Місяць тому +1

      yeah, it can be quite tricky - especially if it's you're first time!
      As long as you take it slow and don't force anything, you'll be fine (even if it does take a while!)

    • @PtolemaicTaweret
      @PtolemaicTaweret Місяць тому

      @@ConorRocksYT thanks!

  • @Savon1c
    @Savon1c 2 місяці тому

    My guitar is muting randomly while i play after i changed the pickups, what did i do wrong?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  2 місяці тому

      Try wiggling the pickup switch, does that cause it to come back on? (Most of my pickup problems are switch related!)

  • @Karl-pk5xl
    @Karl-pk5xl Місяць тому

    PSA: This guide only works, if the nutslots are cut correctly for your string-gauge and your guitar doesn't have any high frets. Otherwise, you can't get a buzz free set-up or in case the string height at the nut is too height, it's hard to fret the strings and you face intonation issues.

  • @reilord3409
    @reilord3409 11 місяців тому +2

    I have the same electric guitar, what things did you use specifically (like brands etc)

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому +1

      Hi Rei, thanks for your question!
      I use the GrooveTech StageHand Kit (GTSH1) (sometimes listed online as "CruzTools"). This contains all the tools I used in the video, except for the truss rod key, strings, and tuner.
      The truss rod key came with my guitar, it's sized 3/16ths. For Strat's you'll either need a 1/8th hex key (mostly USA Strats) or 3/16th's (most Made-in-Mexico Strats). For what it's worth, you can pick these hex keys up pretty cheap.
      The tuner is a Boss TU-2, the strings are Ernie Ball Super Slinky's.

  • @bluesman354
    @bluesman354 2 місяці тому

    Tremolo?

  • @BadBoy-mv8lz
    @BadBoy-mv8lz 11 місяців тому +2

    Hello , I am in doubt about buying the radius gauge..the only one I find available is one toolkit music nomad 75 euro with a lot of tools , not only radius gauge..in this video you didn't use any radius gauge..is it absolutely necessary? Is it enough to measure strings height individually and then indirectly you get the right radius?😊 I have already the D'ADDARIo strings height ruler..even if i dont understand if the horizontal lines with 0,10 are inches or metric and same doubt about 0.25...

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  11 місяців тому +3

      Thanks for your comment! Personally I don't use a radius gauge and you don't need one to follow this guide.
      My thinking is the same as yours: setting each string at the correct height will naturally follow the radius of the fretboard anyway! From there, I adjust the highest again to what feels right for me (I.e as low as I can go without fret buzz).
      I see why people use radius gauges, but I've never used one, and have never had a problem with my guitars setup!

    • @BadBoy-mv8lz
      @BadBoy-mv8lz 11 місяців тому +2

      @@ConorRocksYT thanks 😆

  • @smokinjoe4709
    @smokinjoe4709 14 днів тому

    You didn't even mention the springs for the tremolo.

  • @rjc0188
    @rjc0188 14 днів тому

    Man. This is a lot of work. I'd rather have a professional do it for me.

  • @pipotron1637
    @pipotron1637 4 місяці тому +1

    Is it an highway one ?

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  4 місяці тому

      It's a 2008 Made in Mexico Standard 😊 it's a really cool guitar!

  • @indiedavecomix3882
    @indiedavecomix3882 10 місяців тому +2

    The biggest thing I learned from this is I need to bring my guitar to a professional to get set up. 😂

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому +1

      You can do it! 😊 Just take your time and don't force anything.
      But, if it's really not something you want to do - taking it to a pro is a great option!

    • @indiedavecomix3882
      @indiedavecomix3882 10 місяців тому +2

      @roundtable audio I would do it if I had all the feeler guages and whatnot, plus I'm a real early stage beginner. I'm putting a partscaster together, but when all the pieces are screwed together, I'll bring it in to a local pro to properly check things like neck relief, intonation and fret levels. Eventually, I'll get to the point where I can do it all myself.

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому +2

      @@indiedavecomix3882 that's fair enough! Enjoy making your partscaster - that's something I'd like to do myself one day!

  • @rodedawg77
    @rodedawg77 9 місяців тому

    Good video, but palm muting on that strat must be brutal! 😅

  • @DobbsyLondon
    @DobbsyLondon 2 місяці тому

    @03:47, your relief tble is missing what I need..

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  2 місяці тому

      The table is in the pinned comment!

  • @nathanwhite617
    @nathanwhite617 Місяць тому

    You didn’t state where to measure the string height in the relief section. You showed 7th, but didn’t say

  • @gregsmith2917
    @gregsmith2917 10 місяців тому +2

    I have mine set up whenever I hear something wrong. Which is almost never more than one setup. I have always played the same diameter strings. I change my string almost every gig which has me changed my string once or twice a week. I’ve had guitar that I have wore the frets off because of cheap metal. When that happens I tend to take it to get set up more often I guess

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  10 місяців тому

      Thanks for your comment Greg - sounds like you're on top of it! 😊

  • @theknappster2067
    @theknappster2067 4 місяці тому +1

    thats literally my guitar, color and everything. MIM lol

  • @GreyStreet14
    @GreyStreet14 25 днів тому +1

    Ok lets start this comment by me saying "I want to play and sound like Satch".

  • @JustMe-mn5hk
    @JustMe-mn5hk 10 місяців тому +1

    Lol... there's a little more to properly setting up a guitar! Well maybe a lot more!

  • @KonicaHexanon
    @KonicaHexanon 4 місяці тому

    Inch? You gotta be kidding me.

  • @Mr4Strings
    @Mr4Strings 3 місяці тому

    Why is your "Neck Relief at 8th Fret - in inches" blank? Not very helpful. Now take the correct feeler gauge for your radius, ok, why didn't you display what the correct feeler gauge is? GEEZ. Why don't you tell your viewers what the neck radius is of the guitar you're working on and the correct feeler gauge. This should be elementary info provided if you're making one of these videos..

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      Check the pinned comment ⬆️ the table was wrong

    • @Mr4Strings
      @Mr4Strings 3 місяці тому

      OK thanks for following up. Maybe edit your vid? Thanks again.@@ConorRocksYT

  • @neilritson7445
    @neilritson7445 3 місяці тому

    Easy????????????

    • @ConorRocksYT
      @ConorRocksYT  3 місяці тому

      It can be tricky if you're doing this for the first time, but if you take it slow you'll be able to do it 😊

  • @Lappillainen
    @Lappillainen 4 місяці тому

    Nah, just buy another if the string breaks