Fret rocker and string height gauge
That’s handy; a fret rocker and string action ruler in 1! That saves space for other tools. The fret rocker fits over 3 frets so you can check if your frets are all on level. Because this is made of clear 5mm thick plexiglass, you can quickly check your string height and safe some time on your final setup.
How do you do it?
Frets
To check your frets, place the rocker in a straight line over 3 frets.
If it is stable, the frets are level. If the fret rocker tilts (rocks), then your middle fret is too high and requires adjustments.
Depending on the deviation, you can use a small file, a fret crown file, or a piece of Kovax Assilex sandpaper. Do not forget to protect your fretboard!
Measure again and, when this fret is good, continue to the next until you have checked all the frets.
String height (Action)
To check your string height, put the fret rocker on your frets between your strings. It is customary to measure on the side of your nut and on the 12th position. Which line connects to the bottom of your string? That is your string height, so from the top of your fret, to the bottom of your string. Depending on your playing style, you try to set the ideal string height for you, by using your trussrod, bridge saddles and by ensure you have the correct height of the nut slots.
The lower the string height, the lighter your instrument plays, but also the more sensitive your attack is for fret buzz. If you like to hit a bit harder and rough, a slightly higher string height might suit you better. This table gives you some references and can help you on your way to your ideal string height.
Electric guitar |
Low E (bass) |
High E (treble) |
String height 1st fret: |
0.55-0.8mm |
0.3-0.6mm |
String height 12th fret: |
1.6-2.3mm |
1.55-1.6mm |
Electric bass guitar |
Low E (bass) |
High G (treble) |
String height 1st fret: |
0.55-0.8mm |
0.5-0.65mm |
String height 12th fret: |
2.0-2.8mm |
1.6-2.0mm |
Acoustic guitar, steel string |
Low E (bass) |
High E (treble) |
String height 1st fret: |
0.55-0.8mm |
0.3-0.4mm |
String height 12th fret: |
2.25-3mm |
1,75-2mm |
Acoustic guitar, nylon string |
Low E (bass) |
High E (treble) |
String height 1st fret: |
0.7-0.9mm |
0.6-0.8mm |
String height 12th fret: |
3.5-4mm |
3-3.3mm |
Item | 123013 |
---|---|
Brand | TLC Guitar Goods |
Size | 102x52x5 mm |
Type | Fret level |
Material | Acryl |
Weight | 50 g |
Sales unit | pce |
Good to know!
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