Is this an intonation problem?

  • Thread starter Thread starter RideTheCrash
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RideTheCrash

RideTheCrash

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There was a thread here not long ago which contained what I'm looking for, but I can't seem to find it. I also searched the net but I haven't found an answer to my problem yet.

My problem is that on my acoustic on the high E string, frets 17 and 18 are the same note (A). I don't know if this deals with the nut or the bridge, and I'm not sure what either are made out of. I know the guitar is pretty old though. I did the thing with playing the harmonics on the 12th fret and seeing if they are the same note, and they all sound fine to my ear.

Even if you guys can redirect me to that thread where someone had this problem, I'd appreciate it, thanks.
 
Most likely it is a high fret. Take it to a good repair shop, as this is not something you are going to be able to take care of yourself.


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"Cowards can never be moral."
M.K. Gandhi
 
Alright I'll look into that. Got a rough estimate on what something like that would cost? And does it affect the guitar it any other way besides those two frets?

Right after I read your post I turned the guitar around and looked at the frets from the side. It appears the 18th fret has been pulled from one side somehow and the one end is sticking up sort of. There is another a few ones up that appears like it has started, but it hasn't affected the notes on the neck yet. It's probably been like that for a while now.
 
You definitely have a fret that is lifting. It is a common problem, especially if the guitar has been poorly re-fretted in the past. Try placing a harwood block on the high end on the fret and tap the end of the block lightly to re-seat the fret. Don't over do it. If the fret won't stay down it's time to take the guitar to the doctor. If you have any doubts about performing this operation, leave it to a professional to avoid making matters worse. Good luck.
 
On top of it not being something you want to do yourself, there is no good reason to do it. It is a realitivly quick thing, and if we are doing other work usually don't charge anything. Even if we do, it is only $15-20, unless there is additional wear which requires a fret dress.


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"Cowards can never be moral."
M.K. Gandhi
 
Alright, thanks. Trust me, I wouldn't bother trying myself, I'd probably break something.
 
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