High action on a guitar, while not inherently bad, can lead to certain playability and performance issues that may affect your playing experience. The ideal action height can vary depending on your playing style, preferences, and the type of guitar you have. Here are some considerations regarding high action on a guitar:
Pros of High Action:
Reduced String Buzz: Higher action can help reduce the likelihood of string buzzing against the frets, particularly if you play with a heavy hand or use a strong picking technique.
Increased String Sustain: Some players prefer higher action because it can enhance sustain by allowing the strings to vibrate more freely without touching the frets.
Accommodating Slide Playing: High action can be beneficial for slide guitar playing, as it provides more clearance between the strings and the frets, allowing for slide techniques without unintentional fretting.
Cons of High Action:
Increased Playing Effort: High action requires more finger strength and effort to press the strings down to the frets, which can be fatiguing and uncomfortable, especially for beginners or players with weaker hand muscles.
Reduced Playability: High action can make it challenging to execute fast and precise fretting, especially on lower frets, which may hinder your ability to play complex passages and chords comfortably.
Intonation Issues: Extremely high action can lead to intonation problems, where the guitar does not play in tune up and down the neck. This can result in notes being sharp or flat, making it difficult to play in tune with other musicians or backing tracks.
Limited Bending and Vibrato: Higher action can restrict the ability to perform string bends and vibrato techniques effectively, which are essential for many guitar styles.
String Tension: High action can increase string tension, which may affect your playing feel and may not be suitable for players who prefer a lighter touch.
The key is to find a balance that suits your playing style and comfort while maintaining good playability and intonation. Many players prefer a medium action, which provides a compromise between ease of playing and string clearance. If you find that your guitar has excessively high action and it’s negatively impacting your playing experience, it’s advisable to have a professional guitar technician or luthier perform a setup. They can adjust the action to a more comfortable and suitable height for your preferences and playing style. Proper setup is crucial for achieving optimal playability and tone on your guitar.
