Is Your Guitar Working Against You?

Do you find yourself fighting high action or distracted by annoying string buzz? Most guitars—from budget-friendly starters to high-end “closet queens”—rarely come off the shelf or out of the case perfectly set up. Whether it’s a brand-new instrument needing that initial adjustment or a sentimental favorite that’s been neglected for years, wood is finicky. Changes in humidity, wear and tear, or years of sitting idle can leave your guitar feeling stiff, sounding dull, and acting completely unpredictable.

Frustration Shouldn’t Be Part of the Music

When your guitar isn’t playing right, the joy of picking it up disappears. It’s frustrating to deal with uneven frets, poor intonation that makes chords sound “sour,” or action so high it hurts to play. These issues don’t just stay the same; they get worse over time, turning a minor annoyance into a total lack of confidence in your gear. Whether it’s a cheap “beater” or an expensive investment, an unoptimized guitar holds your playing back and keeps you from sounding your best.

Precision Setups to Keep You Gig-Ready

At Guitar-Doc, I bridge the gap between “playable” and “perfect.” I specialize in transforming guitars of all conditions—from abused workhorses to broken instruments in need of a second life—into precision tools. By focusing on the measurements that matter, I deliver that low action and no buzz feel that makes playing effortless.

Whether you need a minor seasonal adjustment or a large-scale overhaul, my goal is to keep your instrument gig-ready all year long. You deserve a guitar that stays out of the way of your creativity. Bring your gear by the shop here in Watford City, and let’s make it play better than the day it was born.

What’s In A Setup?

Comprehensive Guitar Setup Process

Here’s how the process works:

Initial Inspection: I start by thoroughly examining your guitar to identify any specific issues and assess its overall condition.

Truss Rod Adjustment: By adjusting the truss rod, I ensure the neck has the ideal amount of relief (.010 mm at the 8th and 9th fret for electrics, .012 mm for basses). This creates a comfortable playing surface, minimizing string buzz.

Bridge Height Adjustment: I fine-tune the string height at the 12th fret for acoustics and the 17th fret for electrics and basses, optimizing playability and tone.

Potentiometer Maintenance: I rotate the volume and tone pots, using DeoxIT to eliminate any scratchiness and tightening loose components. I also note recommendations for any necessary future adjustments.

Fret Cleaning and Polishing: I meticulously clean and polish the frets, enhancing their appearance and ensuring smooth playability.

Fretboard Conditioning: I clean the fretboard and apply oil (for Rosewood, Pau Ferro, and Ebony), preserving its longevity and enhancing the wood’s natural beauty.

String Change and Tuning: I replace your strings, tune your guitar to perfection, and lubricate the nut to promote smooth string movement.

Tuning Machines Adjustment: I tighten any loose tuning machines and torque them if necessary, ensuring they hold your tuning accurately.

Body Screws Maintenance: I check for and tighten any loose screws on the body, preventing unwanted vibrations and ensuring stability.

Pickup Height Adjustment: I assess and adjust the pickup height, enhancing your guitar’s tone and dynamic response.

Intonation Setup: I set and adjust the intonation, guaranteeing that your guitar sounds in tune across the entire fretboard.

Final Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of the guitar ensures it looks as good as it plays.

Play Test: Finally, I play your guitar to check for any buzzing, assess playability, and evaluate the overall feel, making any final adjustments to ensure your complete satisfaction.

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