Setting the Action Height on a 12-String Guitar: Best Practices and Personal Preferences

Setting the Action Height on a 12-String Guitar: Best Practices and Personal Preferences

Setting the proper action height on a 12-string guitar is crucial for both playability and the overall sound. Understanding the factors that influence action height, as well as the personal preferences of renowned players, can help you achieve the perfect setup for your 12-string guitar.

General Guidelines for Action Height

The action on a 12-string guitar typically varies depending on personal preference, playing style, and the guitar's setup. Here are some general guidelines for action height:

Electric 12-String Guitars

Action is often set between 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm at the 12th fret At the 12th fret, action might range from 0.071 to 0.079 inches (1.8 mm to 2.5 mm)

Acoustic 12-String Guitars

Action is typically between 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm at the 12th fret for acoustic models At the 12th fret, action might range from 0.098 to 0.138 inches (2.5 mm to 3.5 mm)

These guidelines serve as a starting point, but it's essential to consider individual factors such as string gauge and setup to achieve the best playable and sounding setup.

Factors Influencing Action Height

Playability

Lower action can improve playability, making it easier to press the strings against the frets. However, higher action can improve sustain and reduce fret buzz. The increased tension of 12-string guitars means higher action might be necessary for proper sound and playability.

String Gauge

Heavier gauge strings typically require higher action to prevent buzzing. If you're using light gauge strings, you can lower the action more effectively without risking buzzing.

Setup

A professional setup by a luthier can optimize action based on your specific instrument and playing style. A well-executed setup ensures that the neck is straight and the bridge is set correctly, which directly influences the action height.

Personal Preferences of Renowned Players

Different players approach the action height on their 12-string guitars based on their personal playing style and the type of music they perform.

Richie Havens

Richie Havens played his 12-string guitar with a high action, which was set on his Guild guitar. His playing style was violent and intense, requiring a higher action to withstand the force of his playing. Here's a photograph of Richie Havens at Woodstock, performing with his high-action 12-string guitar:

Leo Kottke

Leo Kottke also played with a high action on his 12-string guitar. His playing style was known for its intensity and vigor. Here's a photograph of Leo Kottke performing on his 12-string guitar:

John Denver

John Denver played with a medium strum on his Guild 512, which is a 12-string guitar known for its full sound. The action height on his guitar was medium, allowing for a comfortable strumming style. Here's a photograph of John Denver performing with his guitar:

My Experience with 12-String Guitars

From my personal experience, I played a 12-string guitar with a medium strum and added some flat picking and finger picking. I used the lowest possible action to achieve the best playability without hand cramps and fret buzz. The neck and pickup heights were set by a qualified luthier to ensure the best possible playability and sound.

While I no longer own a 12-string guitar, my setup and experiences can provide valuable insights for players who enjoy this unique instrument.

Conclusion

The action height on a 12-string guitar is a combination of personal preference and technical factors. By understanding the guidelines and considering the playing style of renowned players, you can achieve a setup that maximizes both playability and sound quality. Ultimately, consulting with a professional luthier can help you find the perfect balance for your 12-string guitar.

Happy playing!

Read more about 12-string guitar setup guide