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I've just started the process on one and will be doing another in a month. I have a basic idea from having done acoustics but wanted to know the techniques and metrics of those builders and repair people who do a lot more.

Are there any tried and true methods and are there any online publications that I can study and follow?

TIA

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JJ
Napa, CA
http://www.DonohueGuitars.com

Are you more interested in hearing the process or specs?

Simplified, I would say about the same as any setup. First truss rod, then nut, then saddle height, then checks and balances - meaning perhaps playing saddle height against truss rod back and forth. The fine tuning here can put you in different directions depending on variables like fret board radius, shape of neck relief, fall away, etc.

If I remember right, is this for that shredder guitar? Depending on how level the frets are you can get pretty darn low for that style.

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Eschew obfuscation, espouse elucidation.

That's the one, David. I just now cleaned the finish from the frets and started getting everything straight and level. The nut is still high and until those variables are addressed I won't even touch the saddles.

I was hoping to be able to be able to hear about both process and specs that you guys shoot for on a Strat-type neck as well as a LP-type (which is the 2nd one that is currently in finishing).

BTW, you will see Shredder next Saturday. I was hoping to get it through setup so that you wouldn't yell at me too much and that it could at least be played by Lance...our Hair Hand Extrordinairre Retro-Dude!

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JJ
Napa, CA
http://www.DonohueGuitars.com

Years ago, back in "96, when I bought a Fender Stratocaster for my son, it came with a little Owner's Manual. That's all I needed to do an electric setup. http://www.frets.com for nuts and truss rods, which you already know anyway....

pics?

tutorial?

You know there's always a greenhorn out there somewhere....

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http://www.dickeyguitars.com

JJ, the process I've used is to start off by setting the strings where they are just off the frets--the thickness of a playing card. Then lower gradually till they start to buzz.




Steve

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From Nacogdoches...the oldest town in Texas.

http://www.stephenkinnaird.com

Actually, JJ, you've gotten good advice already.
Dan Erlewine likes a straight neck.
Others want a hint of relief.
Most players just want the lowest it will go. Do the best prep work you've ever done!
You're already going to have an advantage in that you'll be using lighter gauge strings. Ask the player if he's a power chord guy, or a bend 'em and weep guy, or a chicken picker.
Then get out that playing card and set it up.

SK

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From Nacogdoches...the oldest town in Texas.

http://www.stephenkinnaird.com

That's the way I do it! That way you know you're too low!
EZ as Pi! Thanks Steve!

Billy T

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Billy Dean Thomas
Covina, CA

"Multi famam, conscientiam, pauci verentur."
(Many fear their reputation, few their conscience)