Introduction
Playing guitar is something that we call magical and mind-blowing. The melody and tune of a guitar are enough to blow our minds. But any issues like low e-string intonation can interrupt this feel of ours.
So, what is this low e string intonation problem?
String disruption is the main low e-string intonation issue. This happens when the string is not positioned right. Secondly, it may also occur due to backdated strings. Remember high guitar pickups might also be the reason for this. And finally, the high nuts of your guitar may also be the reason for this.
This is just the outline of what you want to know about. But you can get the info in detail if you keep up with our article.
So, get started now!
What Actually Is The Low E String Intonation Problem?
The low e string intonation problem is basically the disruption of the string. Due to this problem, the low e string would get out of the actual tune it has.
As a result, you would not get the exact tune when you play your guitar. As a result, intonation may become significantly wrong. And you may experience the amp hum for this.
Intonation problems are very common. Guitar shops receive it to fix it all the time.
Because the strings extend to the frets when one plays up near the bridge. The solution is to lower the action and tighten the truss rod.
And alternatively, you may also use strings with a little lighter gauge too. But that does not mean this would be the fix for this.
Because there are many factors behind this issue. And you need to go accordingly to resolve the issues.
So, let us get to the next segment. Over there, we can see the reasons for this intonation problem.
What Are The Reasons for Low E String Intonation Problem?
There might actually be numerous reasons for which this problem occurs. But most of them are similar. So, we will discuss the main reasons here.
Reason 1: Not Properly Positioned String
This is a primary reason for the low e-string intonation problem. A rundown or improperly placed nut can lead to this issue.
You know this is generally observed if the device is not assembled properly. Moreover, there would be chances of this done by the user.
As a result, you go through low e-string intonation issues.
Fix the issue quickly, taking the help of an expert.
Reason 2: Too Old String
You might be having trouble setting intonation that is several months old. That, however, will not be a sensible decision.
Because new guitar strings must be used to induce Intonation. As strings get older, intonation wanders. As a result, you’ll notice some out-of-tunes over the fretboard.
This might be the very same reason why your B-string won’t tune properly.
Don’t change your intonation if that’s the situation. All you have to do now is alter your strings.
After you’ve fitted and stretched the new strings fully, set the intonation after that. Then, before your next string change, let it be like that.
You need to change the strings to get the new ones.
Reason 3: High Guitar Pickups
Understand that the pickups on your instrument have magnetic properties. And there are some really powerful ones.
They can physically pull notes hard if they get too tight to the strings. And when the string vibrates, this happens. High pickup is the culprit in this scenario.
Inspect your pickup’s pole pieces first if they’re adjustable. It’s possible that the entire pickup is okay.
However, one pole piece is adjusted too near to the other, allowing that string to remain persistent. See if the e string is too far from the fret.
Source: researchgate.net
The pole components of your pickup must be like two or three mm away from the string. This is the length of the string fretted at the very last fret on your guitar.
Note that this is a guideline. You can just amend as per your taste.
You need to make sure the pickup of your instrument is not high.
Reason 4: Too High Nut
You may still face an intonation problem even though you set it properly. But why is there an intonation problem then?
Well, nuts of the instrument too high is the reason for this. While doing the setup, there is a common mistake that the users make.
And that is about the height of the nut. People often set the nuts of the guitar too high. That is why you may see the notes and chords are too sharp.
The notes that are the closest to the nuts would be significantly sharper while fretted. And it would not just fix the problem if you even set the chords very precisely.
You need to set the high to low.
So, these reasons are what would cause the problem of low e-string intonation. Hopefully, you understand the issues now.
However, you can not fix it by just knowing the reasons. But you also need to know the solutions. So, move on to the next part for the solutions you would follow.
What to Do to Fix The Low E String Intonation Problem?
There are a few basic solutions for this you can follow. So, take a look at that.
Solution 1: Position The String
String is the most vital thing on your instrument. Thus, the position and adjustment of the string are important.
As the position of the string can have issues with intonation, you need to fix this. To amend the position of the low e string, you might need help.
Because you can’t always fix the string of your instrument. If you think the position is not that disrupted, you may give it a try.
But if you think that looks confusing, do not proceed further. Because stringing the guitar improperly would be problematic. Rather, take the help of an expert to fix this.
Solution 2: Renew The String
Remember that the strings turn old with time. If you think the strings you use are already years old, it’s time.
You need to replace the old strings of your guitar with the new ones. Remember not to go for any cheap strings for your instrument.
Not sure about the ideal strings? Here are our pickups that you may count on too.
| Image | Product | Details | Where To Get |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Phosphor Bronze Coated Acoustic Guitar Strings | For Acoustic Guitar | Check Price |
  | D'Addario Guitar Strings | For Electric Guitar | Check Price |
  | Elixir Strings 80/20 Bronze | For Acoustic Guitar | Check Price |
Hope this helps!
Do not forget that you also need to string your guitar when you change it. And stringing the guitar properly is important too.
So, these are the basic solutions that you can follow.
FAQs
Can I reinstall a broken or torn string of my guitar?
Yes, you can reinstall a broken or torn string of your guitar. And this is in fact something that is not uncommon at all. You can do it and it would also be effective just like usual. But this might be a bit hard for some users to do. In that case, you can take the help of someone.
Can I replace the current strings of my guitar?
Yes, you can replace the strings of your guitar if you want. But it is recommended not to replace the guitar string very often. You must not change the guitar strings without any reason too. But if you think it is necessary, loosen the strings and get the new ones.
Does the problem with the intonation affect the condition of my guitar?
Well, there is no major issue that might occur for intonation problems. However, the main problem that you may face with this is an imbalanced melody. So, this can be an issue that you face. Thus, you must fix the issue as soon as you can do so.
The Final Words
Now you know about the solution to the low e string intonation problem! We believe you would not have any pressure resolving this now.
But always remember one thing. You must always address the problem of your instrument. Once you do it, you need to follow the proper steps to resolve it.
Do not just randomly assess the issue. Good luck!
