How high should the nut be on a guitar?

High strings at the nut can cause sharp intonation and make playing in first position difficult, while low or worn slots can result in open-string fret buzz. Generally, the bottoms of the nut slots should be a few thousandths of an inch higher than the tops of the frets when the neck is straight.

What does graphite in guitar nut do?

Graphite is self-lubricating and is a perfect solution for guitar players who use a lot of the tremolo bar in their playing or have a hard time keeping the guitar in tune. The self-lubricating feature will allow the strings to slide over the nut with less friction, reducing tuning issues and hang-ups.

Should you glue a guitar nut?

You shouldn’t glue it really. The nut should be a tight enough fit that it doesn’t need gluing, it shouldn’t move at all once the strings are on. It can’t hurt to put a very thin layer of medium strength glue on, something like Uhu.

Does my guitar need a new nut?

The main reason for nut replacement is simply when the old nut is too badly worn, with the string slots carved so deep that the strings tend to “fret out” at the first fret. Making a nut from scratch is a tall order requiring an experienced guitar tech and about an hour or so of their time.

Is TUSQ better than bone?

While the difference between the two isn’t as pronounced as going from a cheap plastic nut to a bone or Tusq nut, there are definitely some advantages with Tusq. Tusq tends to produce notes that have more sustain and many find the tone much clearer and sharper. Even with bone blanks they will often sound different.

Are graphite guitar nuts good?

Graphite nuts are a popular choice for luthiers because they produce very little string friction, making them ideal for guitars with tremolo. The only downside of graphite is that it is not as durable as bone or high quality plastic.

Are graphite nuts good?

Graphite nuts are a popular choice for luthiers because they produce very little string friction, making them ideal for guitars with tremolo. It can sometimes squeak with a tremolo, but any well cut and sanded nut shouldn’t produce squeaks or have problems with friction.

Is pencil graphite a lubricant?

The graphite contained in the pencil “lead” is a great dry lubricant. You can buy graphite lube for all sorts of applications.

Is the guitar nut glued in?

How high should the nut be on a Strat?

The height should measure 1/64″ for the 1st string and graduate to 2/64″ for the 6th string. Each thicker string should be slightly higher than the one before it. 4. To lower a string, you’ll need to cut its slot deeper in the nut (Photo 15).

What does graphite do for a guitar nut?

Graphite is self-lubricating and is a perfect solution for guitar players who use a lot of the tremolo bar in their playing or have a hard time keeping the guitar in tune. The self-lubricating feature will allow the strings to slide over the nut with less friction, reducing tuning issues and hang-ups.

How can you tell how tall a guitar nut should be?

Start by loosening the string, not taking it off. Select a file that best fits the fret, and file the fret down a small amount. Then tune back up, and use the feeler gauge to check the distance once more. Repeat until you reach the proper height, and then move on to the next string. That’s it.

Do you need to adjust the nut slot on a guitar?

As a rule, you typically want to cut a nut slot slightly wider than the actual string so the slot does not bind or choke the strings at the nut. This can cause tuning issues. Sometimes I will get a guitar in the shop to repair or replace tuners because the string is making a “clicking” sound when tuning.

How can I use nut lubricant on my guitar?

Now move one of the strings to the side of its nut slot. Carefully place a small amount of nut lubricant into the slot, then repeat for the next string. Once all six string slots are done, place the strings back into position (you can use the strings to help scoop the lubricant into the slots).