Today we are talking about 6 tips and tricks to save you from some frustration so that you can spend more time playing, writing and recording. Some of this is specific to baritone, some is good for any guitar.
Problems
1. String too big for tuning peg
2. Intonation that gets worse with adjustment
3. Tuners that don’t read your low notes
4. Fresh strings to stay in tune faster
5. Strings sticking / riding high in the nut
6. Strings sticking / jumping in the nut
The Hacks
Strings too big for tuning pegs
• First reaction - bore out tuning peg or buy new tuners
• Cheaper and non destructive way - unwind end of string
Intonation that gets worse with adjustment
• First reaction - assume something wrong with bridge or neck
• Arching string over saddle and nut needs to be flattened
• Just push down softly with finger
Inaccurate Tuner
• First reaction - buy new tuner
• Tune on neck pickup
• Turn tone control down
String not stable after change
• First reaction - change string brands
• Use paper sleeve from strings to stretch strings evenly (unless daddario)
Strings too high / sticking (not actually advised - hire a tech)
• First reaction - sell guitar on Reverb
• Save on waiting to get to a tech
• Nut widening with a string (or nail file, or emery cloth)
Strings sticking
• First reaction - Burn guitar in ritual
• Nutsauce lubricant in nut slots
• Pencil led also works
Summary
• Strings too big - Unwind end
• Intonation worse - Arching string
• Tuner not reading - Tune on neck pickup / tone down
• String not stable after change - Stretch String with Paper
• Strings too high / sticking - Nut widening with a string (or nail file, or emery cloth)
• Strings sticking / jumping - Nutsauce (or pencil graphite)
If this was helpful, let me know.
If it was redundant let me know.
If you have some awesome hacks to add, let me know.
Email me: scott@thebunn.ca
Cheers!
Scott