Key Takeaway: Acoustic guitars with low action enhance playability, making them ideal for beginners and seasoned players alike. Understanding reliable brands, the correlation between price and action height, and methods to assess action level can greatly influence your guitar choice.
Acoustic guitars have been a staple in the music industry for centuries, providing a beautiful and rich sound that captivates audiences. However, one factor that can greatly affect the playability of an acoustic guitar is its action.
Simply put, action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard, which determines how easy or difficult it is to press down on the strings to produce sound.
In this article, we will specifically focus on acoustic guitars with low action and discuss reliable brands, dispel common misconceptions about expensive guitars having lower action, and provide tips on how to determine if a guitar has low action.
Reliable Brands that Usually Have Low Action
When it comes to purchasing an acoustic guitar with low action, it’s important to consider the brand. Some brands are known for consistently producing guitars with low action, making them a reliable choice for musicians looking for easy playability.
These include Taylor, Martin, and Yamaha. These brands have been in the industry for decades and have perfected their craft in producing high-quality and playable acoustic guitars.
Taylor is well-known for its comfortable neck shape and smooth fretboards, making it a popular choice among musicians. Their guitars also come with a feature called “ES” (Expression System) that allows players to easily adjust the height of the strings for lower action.
Martin is another reputable brand that offers various models with low action such as the 000-15M and the D-28. Their guitars are known for their rich and warm tones, making them a favourite among acoustic guitar players.
Lastly, Yamaha is a brand that offers affordable but high-quality guitars with low action, such as the FG series. These guitars have a slim neck design and low string height, allowing for easy playability.
Do Expensive Guitars Have Lower Action?
It’s a common misconception that expensive guitars automatically have lower action compared to more affordable ones. While price can sometimes be an indicator of quality, it does not necessarily determine the action of a guitar. It all comes down to individual preferences and playing style.
Some musicians prefer higher action as it allows for a fuller and richer sound, while others prefer lower action for ease of playability. It’s important to note that the price of a guitar can also depend on factors such as materials used, craftsmanship, and brand reputation.
How Can I Know For Sure?
If you’re in the market for an acoustic guitar with low action, there are some things you can look out for to determine if a guitar has low action or not. These include:
- String height: Measure the distance between the top of the 12th fret and the bottom of the string. A good rule of thumb is that the measurement should be around 2-3mm for low action.
- Fret buzz: Lightly press down on each string at every fret and listen for any buzzing sound. If there is no buzz or minimal buzz, it’s a good indicator of low action.
- Playability: The best way to determine if a guitar has low action is simply by playing it. See how easy or difficult it is to press down on the strings and perform chords.
FAQs
Can I adjust the action of my acoustic guitar?
Yes, you can adjust the action of your acoustic guitar by adjusting the truss rod or saddle (the small white piece that holds the strings in place). However, it’s recommended to leave this task to a professional as making adjustments without proper knowledge can damage your guitar.
Are there any downsides to having low action on an acoustic guitar?
Low action can sometimes result in a string buzz or a thinner sound. It’s important to find a balance between playability and sound quality when choosing the action of your guitar.
Can I still achieve a good sound with high action on my acoustic guitar?
Yes, high action does not necessarily mean poor sound quality. Some musicians prefer higher action for a fuller and richer tone.
Conclusion: acoustic guitars with low action
In conclusion, finding an acoustic guitar with low action is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience. While expensive guitars may have certain advantages, it all comes down to personal preferences and individual needs.
Remember to consider reliable brands, check for string height and fret buzz, and most importantly, try out the guitar yourself before making a purchase. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect acoustic guitar with low action for your musical journey.