PSE, Ibanez & Shelton Guitar String Setup Guide

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

So, you've got yourself a PSE, Ibanez, or Shelton guitar, and you're ready to shred! But hold up – before you unleash your inner rock god, let's talk about something crucial: string setup. A proper string setup is the backbone of a great playing experience. It ensures your guitar sounds its best, feels comfortable to play, and stays in tune. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, understanding how to set up your strings is essential. In this guide, we'll break down the process step-by-step, making it easy for you to achieve that perfect action and tone on your beloved instrument. Let's dive in and get your guitar playing like a dream!

Why a Good String Setup Matters

Hey guys, let's get real for a second: why should you even care about a proper string setup? Well, imagine trying to run a marathon with shoes that don't fit – not fun, right? It's the same with your guitar. A bad string setup can lead to a whole host of problems that can seriously hinder your playing and enjoyment. Think buzzing frets, intonation issues, uncomfortable action, and strings that constantly break. No one wants that! A well-executed string setup, on the other hand, can transform your playing experience. You'll find that your guitar is easier to play, stays in tune longer, and produces a clear, resonant tone. Plus, it can actually inspire you to play more, which is always a good thing. So, trust me, investing a little time and effort into your string setup is totally worth it. It's like giving your guitar a spa day, and who doesn't love a little pampering?

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let's make sure we have all the right tools and supplies. Nothing's worse than getting halfway through a string change and realizing you're missing something crucial! Here's a list of essentials:

  • New strings: Obviously! Choose a set that suits your playing style and guitar. For PSE, Ibanez, and Shelton guitars, consider the string gauge and material. Experiment to find what you like best. Remember that different string gauges will affect the tension and playability of your instrument. Lighter gauge strings are easier to bend, while heavier gauge strings offer more sustain and a fuller tone. Some popular brands include D'Addario, Ernie Ball, and Elixir.
  • String winder: This little gadget will save you a ton of time and effort when winding the strings onto the tuning pegs. Trust me, your fingers will thank you.
  • Wire cutters: For trimming the excess string after you've wound it onto the tuning peg. Make sure they're sharp for a clean cut.
  • Tuning fork or electronic tuner: To accurately tune your guitar. While you can tune by ear, a tuner ensures precise intonation.
  • Neck rest or support: To protect your guitar's neck while you're working on it. A stable neck rest prevents accidental damage.
  • Fretboard cleaner and conditioner: To keep your fretboard clean and hydrated. A clean fretboard enhances playability and prolongs the life of your instrument.
  • String cleaner/lubricant: To reduce friction and extend the life of your strings. String cleaner also keeps your strings sounding brighter for longer.
  • Allen wrenches: Ibanez guitars often require Allen wrenches for adjusting the truss rod and bridge. Make sure you have the correct sizes for your guitar model.
  • Screwdrivers: A set of screwdrivers (usually Phillips head) may be needed for adjusting the bridge or other components.
  • Ruler or measuring tool: For checking string height (action) at the nut and bridge. Accurate measurements ensure optimal playability.

Having these tools on hand will make the string setup process much smoother and more efficient. Plus, you'll feel like a guitar tech pro!

Step-by-Step String Changing Guide

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to change your strings like a pro. Don't worry, it's not as intimidating as it seems!

  1. Remove the old strings: Using the string winder, loosen the strings until they're slack enough to remove from the tuning pegs. Then, gently pull the strings out of the bridge. Be careful not to scratch the guitar's finish.
  2. Clean and condition the fretboard: Now's the perfect time to give your fretboard some love. Use a fretboard cleaner to remove any grime and buildup, then apply a conditioner to keep the wood hydrated. This will help prevent cracking and ensure smooth playing.
  3. Install the new strings: Insert the new strings through the bridge and over the saddle. Make sure the ball end of the string is seated properly in the bridge. Then, thread the string through the corresponding tuning peg. Leave some slack in the string to allow for winding.
  4. Wind the strings: Use the string winder to wind the strings onto the tuning pegs. Wind the strings neatly and evenly, making sure the windings go downwards towards the headstock. This will help prevent the strings from slipping and keep your guitar in tune.
  5. Stretch the strings: Once the strings are wound, gently stretch them by pulling up on them a few times. This will help them settle in and prevent them from going out of tune quickly. Retune the guitar after stretching.
  6. Tune the guitar: Use your tuning fork or electronic tuner to tune the guitar to the correct pitch. Double-check the tuning after stretching the strings a few times.
  7. Trim the excess string: Use the wire cutters to trim the excess string at the tuning pegs. Leave about 1/2 inch of string to prevent slippage. Be careful not to cut yourself or damage the guitar.

Adjusting String Height (Action)

String height, also known as action, is the distance between the strings and the frets. Adjusting the string height is crucial for playability and comfort. If the action is too high, the strings will be difficult to press down, making it harder to play chords and solos. If the action is too low, the strings may buzz against the frets. Here's how to adjust the string height:

  1. Check the string height at the 12th fret: Use a ruler or measuring tool to measure the distance between the bottom of the string and the top of the 12th fret. A good starting point is around 2mm for the high E string and 2.5mm for the low E string. However, personal preference may vary.
  2. Adjust the bridge height: Most electric guitars have adjustable bridges that allow you to raise or lower the string height. Use the appropriate Allen wrench or screwdriver to adjust the bridge saddles. Raise the bridge to increase the string height, and lower the bridge to decrease the string height.
  3. Adjust the nut height (if necessary): The nut is the piece of material at the headstock that the strings pass over. If the strings are too high at the nut, it can make it difficult to play chords in the first few frets. A qualified guitar tech can file the nut slots to lower the string height. However, be careful not to file too much, as this can cause buzzing.

Adjusting the action is a delicate process, so take your time and make small adjustments. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's best to take your guitar to a professional tech.

Intonation: Getting in Tune and Staying There

Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch of each string as you play up the fretboard. Proper intonation ensures that your guitar plays in tune across the entire neck. If the intonation is off, chords and notes will sound out of tune, especially in the higher registers. Here's how to check and adjust the intonation:

  1. Tune the guitar: Make sure your guitar is properly tuned before checking the intonation.
  2. Check the intonation at the 12th fret: Play the harmonic at the 12th fret, then fret the string at the 12th fret. Compare the pitch of the harmonic to the fretted note. They should be the same. If the fretted note is sharp, the string is too short. If the fretted note is flat, the string is too long.
  3. Adjust the bridge saddles: Use a screwdriver to adjust the bridge saddles. Move the saddle forward (towards the neck) to lengthen the string, and move the saddle backward (towards the bridge) to shorten the string. Make small adjustments and recheck the intonation until it's accurate.

Truss Rod Adjustments: Maintaining Neck Relief

The truss rod is a steel rod inside the guitar's neck that helps counteract the tension of the strings. Adjusting the truss rod affects the amount of relief (curvature) in the neck. Too much relief can make the action feel high and difficult to play, while too little relief can cause buzzing. Here's how to check and adjust the truss rod:

  1. Check the neck relief: Fret the low E string at the first fret and the last fret. Then, tap the string at the 8th fret. There should be a small gap between the string and the fret (about the thickness of a business card). This is the neck relief.
  2. Adjust the truss rod (if necessary): Use the appropriate Allen wrench to adjust the truss rod. Turn the truss rod clockwise to decrease the relief (straighten the neck), and turn it counterclockwise to increase the relief (add more curvature to the neck). Make small adjustments and recheck the relief until it's correct.

Important Note: Truss rod adjustments should be made with caution. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, it's best to take your guitar to a professional tech. Over-tightening the truss rod can damage the neck.

Fine-Tuning and Final Checks

Alright, you've changed your strings, adjusted the action, intonation, and truss rod. Now it's time for the final touches! Here are a few things to check before you start shredding:

  • String Stretch: Make sure your strings are fully stretched and staying in tune. Continue stretching and retuning them until they stabilize.
  • Hardware Tightness: Check all the screws, nuts, and bolts on your guitar to make sure they're snug. Loose hardware can cause buzzing and other issues.
  • Pickup Height: Adjust the pickup height to achieve your desired tone. Higher pickups generally produce a louder, more aggressive sound, while lower pickups produce a cleaner, more mellow sound.
  • Playability: Play your guitar for a while and see how it feels. Make any final adjustments as needed to optimize playability and comfort.

When to Seek Professional Help

While this guide provides a comprehensive overview of string setup, there are times when it's best to seek professional help. If you're not comfortable performing any of these adjustments yourself, or if you're experiencing persistent problems with your guitar, it's always a good idea to consult a qualified guitar tech. A professional tech can diagnose and fix any issues, ensuring that your guitar plays its best. Plus, they can perform more advanced tasks like fretwork, nut replacement, and electronic repairs. Think of it as taking your guitar to the doctor for a checkup. It's an investment in your instrument and your playing experience.

Maintaining Your Setup

Congratulations, you've successfully set up your PSE, Ibanez, or Shelton guitar! But the work doesn't stop there. To keep your guitar playing its best, it's important to maintain your setup regularly. Here are a few tips:

  • Clean your strings regularly: Wipe down your strings after each playing session to remove dirt and grime. This will help them last longer and sound brighter.
  • Store your guitar properly: When you're not playing your guitar, store it in a case or gig bag to protect it from dust, humidity, and temperature changes.
  • Get regular tune-ups: Take your guitar to a professional tech for a tune-up every year or so. They can check the setup, clean the electronics, and make any necessary adjustments.

By following these tips, you can keep your guitar in top condition and enjoy years of playing pleasure. Now go forth and make some music!

Conclusion

So there you have it – a complete guide to setting up your PSE, Ibanez, or Shelton guitar. Remember, a good string setup is the foundation of a great playing experience. By following these steps, you can ensure that your guitar sounds its best, feels comfortable to play, and stays in tune. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, mastering the art of string setup is an invaluable skill. So grab your tools, get to work, and unleash the full potential of your instrument. Happy playing, guys! And don't forget to experiment and find what works best for you. Every guitar is different, and what sounds and feels great to one player may not be the same for another. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey of discovery. Rock on!