Neck relief and action
We check neck relief and string height over the frets. The available adjustment also depends on the condition of the frets, bridge and nut.
GUITAR LAB / ROUTINE SERVICING
Guitar and bass setup
High action, uncomfortable playing or intonation problems do not necessarily call for an extensive repair. At Guitar Lab in Poznań, Poland, we set up electric and acoustic guitars and basses to suit their construction and the way you play.
Routine servicing is at the heart of our work. We begin by assessing the instrument, strings and tuning. If worn frets, the nut or structural damage are causing the problem, we discuss the necessary work before making setup adjustments.
GUITAR LAB / POZNAŃ
What we assess before a setup
The adjustments affect one another. We do not apply one action height or amount of neck relief to every guitar.
Intonation and tuning stability
We check intonation, string contact points and hardware operation. The bridge design and instrument condition determine the available corrections.
Strings, tuning and playing style
We consider string gauge, intended tuning and playing technique. A change of strings or tuning may call for a different setup.
When to arrange a setup
A change in playing comfort, fret buzz, tuning problems or a different string gauge can be reasons for a check. Tell us whether the problem occurs across the fingerboard or at particular positions.
How a setup differs from fret dressing
Adjustments do not level worn or uneven frets. If fret geometry is the limiting factor, we assess whether leveling, crowning and polishing are needed. A refret is a separate decision.
Acoustic and electric guitars need different approaches
Bridge and nut designs offer different adjustment options. On an acoustic guitar, we also check the bridge-to-soundboard joint. Work on the wood, nut or saddle is agreed separately.
Case studies
Setup in the context of real repairs
The Ibanez BTB605MS needed fret leveling before its final setup. The Thumb LF-20 underwent more extensive work. These projects show why a setup and additional repairs should be distinguished.
Ibanez / GUITAR LAB
Stainless steel fret leveling on bass: when setup is not enough
Your bass buzzes, but a fret rocker finds no uneven frets? Using an Ibanez BTB605MS, we explain when stainless steel frets need leveling and what to check before setup.
Read the case study
Thumb / GUITAR LAB
Servicing an acoustic before amplification: frets, nut, saddle and pickup. Thumb LF-20
How do you plan work on a guitar you want to amplify? Our Thumb LF-20 illustrates why instrument condition and pickup requirements should be discussed separately.
Read the case studyGUITAR LAB / EUROPE
Arranging a service
We service modern and vintage guitars, including instruments bought elsewhere. We agree on the work and quote after assessing the instrument.
Your enquiry
Tell us the model, string gauge and tuning. Describe the symptoms and how you would like the instrument to feel.
Assessment and agreement
We inspect the instrument and discuss the work required. A setup, fret dressing and a refret are different services.
Service and final check
After the agreed work, we check the instrument in its intended tuning and explain what has been done when handing it back.
Questions before booking a service
Can I book just a setup?
Yes. Routine guitar and bass setups are a core service. Your instrument does not have to be vintage or bought from our shop.
Will a setup remove all fret buzz?
Not always. We check whether the cause is the adjustment, fret condition or another fault before agreeing on the work.
Can I ask for very low action?
We will discuss your preferences. The achievable setup depends on fret geometry, construction, strings, tuning and playing technique.
Does a setup quote include fret leveling or new parts?
A setup, fret leveling and parts replacement are separate items of work. We agree on the required service and cost in advance.
GUITAR LAB / SELECTED VINTAGE GUITARS
Tell us how you want your guitar to play
Describe the problem and include your string gauge and tuning. You can bring the instrument to our workshop in Poznań, Poland. Please contact us before shipping your instrument, including from abroad.
ul. Dąbrowskiego 307, 60-406 Poznań, Poland+48 789 093 840
shop@selectedvintageguitars.com