Too bad these guys can't be a third Collings dealer in the Nashville area,they do such a fine job.I signed up for their e-mailer and thought this was worthy of posting. Artisan Guitars - Muzic Newz February 2008



Toll Free: 1-866-265-5993
International: 615-595-2544
In Nashville: 595-2544 Guitar Notes from Nashville

It's Groundhog Day... Time to check your neck relief!
The weather has been "chilly" in Nashville, to say the least. We've burned plenty of firewood, but there is more Winter yet to endure.

If your guitar seems to be suffering from high action, it may be time to adjust that Truss Rod, and get it back to the easy playing set-up that you enjoy.

When changing the set-up on a guitar I use an 18" metal straight edge designed to span across the length of the entire fretboard. But don't worry, you can check and adjust your neck relief without having this tool... Here's how (Lefty's do this in reverse):

- Hold the guitar on your lap, in the playing position.

- Using your left index finger, fret the Low E at the 1st Fret.

- Using the thumb on your right hand, fret the Low E at the 14th fret.

- Use the index finger on your right hand to reach over and touch the string between the 10th & 12th fret, kind of "bouncing" the string up and down.

- Watch closely while doing this, and you might see the string moving up and down over the expanse of your fretboard. This is known as "positive relief". Too much positive relief can affect the string height and comfort in playing.

- Using your hex key or truss rod tool, tighten the truss rod by turning it to the right. Some double acting truss rods require only a small adjustment, (maybe 1/8 to 1/4 turn).

- Retest and tighten the truss rod until there is no relief and the fretboard is completely flat, (Or for you Bluegrass players, you might wish to leave a bit of positive relief for a more agressive attack with your pick hand).

If you need help making this adjustment yourself, call the shop or email us and we can walk you through it.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Winfield,