Record the method
Use the same fret, capo position and measuring tool whenever you compare results. Targets are editable because string gauge, fret condition, playing style and preference all change what feels right.
Guitar Setup Checklist
Work through a complete guitar setup, record your measurements and print a clean workshop copy when you need it.
Choose your instrument
Job details
- 01
Initial inspection
Check neck seating, hardware, fret condition, strings and any faults before making adjustments.
- 02
Tune to pitch
Fit the intended string gauge, stretch the strings and tune to the pitch the guitar will normally use.
Tuning - 03
Neck relief
Capo the first fret, hold the sixth string at the last fret and measure over the 8th fret. The prefilled factory starting point follows the selected fingerboard radius.
Relief / gap - 04
Nut / first-fret check
Check each open string for clearance, clean notes and comfortable fretting at the first position.
Low E clearanceHigh E clearance - 05
Action
Measure from the top of the 17th fret to the underside of each E string. Start with the prefilled factory guide, then balance clean playing against the feel the player wants.
Low E actionHigh E actionMeasured at fret - 06
Saddle radius
Match the string arc to the fingerboard while retaining the required action on each string.
Radius / gauge used - 07
Tremolo bridge setup
Record whether the tremolo is floating or decked. Balance spring tension, check pivot movement, string alignment, arm operation and return to pitch.
Bridge stateRear bridge gapSpring count / layout - 08
Intonation
Compare the fretted 12th-fret note with its harmonic and adjust after relief and action are stable.
Low E offsetHigh E offset - 09
Pickup height
Measure using a recorded fretted position. Adjust by ear and check that magnetic pull does not affect tuning.
Bass-side clearanceTreble-side clearanceString fretted at - 10
Electronics check
Test every switch position, volume and tone control, then listen for crackle, hum or an intermittent output.
- 11
Tuning stability
Stretch strings, use bends and operate the hardware, then recheck pitch and investigate any binding.
- 12
Final fret / buzz check
Play every fret on every string at realistic attack and record any choke, rattle or uneven fret.
- 13
Final play test
Check chords, bends, vibrato, upper-fret access and amplified balance before signing off the setup.
Progress is saved automatically in this browser.
Use the checklist in setup order
Tune first, then establish neck relief before action and intonation. Each adjustment can affect the next, so recheck pitch after every meaningful change.
Stratocaster bridge checks
Decide whether the tremolo should float or sit decked before balancing its springs. Check pivot movement, arm operation and return to pitch before final intonation.
Telecaster saddle checks
Record whether the bridge uses three shared saddles or six individual saddles. Compromise or compensated positioning may be needed on a three-saddle bridge.
Les Paul bridge and stopbar
Check the Tune-o-matic bridge, saddle range and stopbar height without assuming the tailpiece must be screwed fully down. Record pickup heights for the fitted humbuckers.
ES-335 semi-hollow checks
Check internal rattles, jack security and pickup mounting. Record the fitted bridge and tailpiece, then test each control and connection without removing the wiring harness during a normal setup.
Model names are used descriptively. Guitar Anatomy is not affiliated with or endorsed by Fender or Gibson.