- Definition of Intonation: Intonation refers to the accuracy of pitch in playing notes. For guitars, it means that each fret on each string produces the correct pitch corresponding to its position on the scale. When intonation is set correctly, a note played at the 12th fret (the octave) sounds exactly one octave higher than the open string.
- Physical Factors: Intonation is influenced by several physical aspects of the guitar, including string length, string height (action), neck curvature (relief), and the positioning of the bridge saddles. The interplay of these factors determines whether the guitar will play in tune along the entire neck.
Why is Guitar Intonation Important?
Accurate Pitch Across the Fretboard: Proper intonation ensures that the notes are in tune not just on open strings, but also when fretted. Without correct intonation, playing higher up the neck results in notes that are sharp or flat, making chords and solos sound off. This is particularly noticeable when playing above the 5th fret, where even minor intonation issues can become glaring.
Chords Sound In Tune: When intonation is accurate, chords ring out true and harmoniously. Poor intonation leads to chords that sound dissonant and unpleasant, even if the guitar is in tune when checked with open strings. This is especially important for rhythm guitarists and those who frequently play full chords.
Playing With Others: In ensemble settings or recording situations, accurate intonation is vital. Poor intonation can cause your guitar to sound out of tune with other instruments, leading to a less cohesive sound. This is crucial for both live performances and studio recordings where precision is paramount.
Intonation and Tuning Stability: Even if a guitar is perfectly tuned, poor intonation will cause inconsistencies in pitch. Regularly checking and adjusting intonation helps maintain tuning stability across various playing styles and conditions. This is particularly important for guitarists who use alternate tunings or play in different environments.
Impact on Technique: Accurate intonation supports better playing techniques. When notes and chords sound as they should, it encourages proper finger placement and pressure, contributing to overall playing accuracy and development. This is essential for both beginner and advanced players as it affects muscle memory and playing confidence.
Instrument Longevity: Regularly checking and maintaining intonation is part of good guitar care. This practice helps identify potential issues with the guitar’s setup or condition early, contributing to the instrument’s longevity. Proper intonation adjustments can prevent more serious problems like fret wear and neck warping.
Recording and Performance Quality: For professional recording and live performance, intonation is critical. Accurate pitch ensures that recordings are clear and precise, and live performances sound polished and professional. In the studio, even minor intonation issues can be picked up by sensitive microphones, affecting the quality of the final mix.
Personal Satisfaction: Playing a guitar with proper intonation is simply more enjoyable. The instrument responds well, chords and solos sound as intended, and the overall playing experience is more satisfying. This can lead to longer practice sessions and greater motivation to improve.
How to Check and Adjust Intonation
Tools Needed: To check and adjust intonation, you’ll need a few basic tools: a tuner (preferably a strobe tuner for accuracy), a screwdriver, and a ruler or measuring tape. Some players also use specialized tools like intonation meters for more precise adjustments.
Checking Intonation: Start by tuning your guitar to pitch. Then, play the open string and compare it to the 12th fret harmonic. They should be identical in pitch. Next, fret the 12th fret and compare it to the open string. If the fretted note is sharp, the string length needs to be increased. If it’s flat, the string length needs to be decreased.
Adjusting Intonation: Adjust the bridge saddles to correct the pitch discrepancies. For most electric guitars, this involves turning the screws on the bridge saddles to move them forward or backward. For acoustic guitars, adjustments may be more complex and might require professional help.
Final Steps: After making adjustments, retune the guitar and recheck the intonation. Repeat the process until the 12th fret note matches the open string note perfectly. It’s also a good idea to check the intonation at several other points on the neck to ensure overall accuracy.
