Guitar Setup: Checking for High Frets
How to check for high frets
Each fret on a guitar needs to be the same height or shorter than the other fret. Uneven frets will prevent the strings from vibrating correctly and impede the instrument’s sound. High frets will cause lower notes to lose sustain, buzz, or even choke out completely. If your guitar is experiencing these symptoms, a fret rocker will help determine if and where the high fret(s) are located.
A fret rocker is a tool that allows you to compare the height of any three frets at a time. If the fret rocker can rock back and forth at any time, like a teeter-totter, the fret in the middle of the rocker is too high. If you don’t have a fret rocker on hand, you can also use a string action gauge, but it may not provide you with an accurate reading.
If your guitar does have a high fret(s), a reputable technician must service the instrument. You can also contact the Sweetwater guitar workshop, and they’ll be able get you taken care of!
The Plek Pro System used to level frets
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