Well, I started my first CBG today. I was able to complete the neck and I put on a stock fretboard. To this point I am happy with the results. However as I look at things I am wondering how high the nut should be more or less above the fretboard and while I am at it I might as well ask the same thing about the bridge. I am sure it varies but I am looking for suggestions here. Thoughts anybody?
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String the box, tune it and start lowering bridge and nut, but wait a week or so before you lower the strings to dime and nickel as Oily described: maybe the angle of the neck changes a bit, maybe the soundboard sinks down a bit below the bridge.
Gib, I'm not the best help for you, but I'll get the ball rollin' for you. Many past posts on the subject, but here's how I typically do it. I build my neck, glue the fretboard, prepare the box for the neck..really, I build the git, string it up, then start trial fitting bolt nuts and larger bolt bridges, or wooden bridges. I fit my bridges and nuts based on how the string-to-neck height initially appears (experience will hone your "eyeballing"), and play it. I can then use smaller or larger diameter bolts, or taller/shorter bridges to fine tune the action and sound.
I think you were asking "how high/low should I start?", and I'm sure there will be more precise starting points offered to help you. What I described is where I start, as every git I've made has been different. Build it, adjust it, play it. Works pretty well for me. Best of luck on your "trials".
String height (base of the string diameter) should be about the thickness of a dime above the first fret, and about the thickness of a nickel or quarter above the 12th fret. Start with your nut and bridge higher than that, and sand your way down to it in fine increments. 9 times outta ten you won't get it right on the first try.
Replies
Here's another useful link on setting the "Action Height" of the strings
http://www.stewmac.com/How-To/Online_Resources/Neck_Building_and_Re...
Thanks everyone. this gives me a great starting point. Always good to listen to the voice of experience.
gib
String the box, tune it and start lowering bridge and nut, but wait a week or so before you lower the strings to dime and nickel as Oily described: maybe the angle of the neck changes a bit, maybe the soundboard sinks down a bit below the bridge.
About correct slotting check John Mackay's http://www.cigarboxnation.com/forum/topics/nut-slots-with-principle....
Gib, I'm not the best help for you, but I'll get the ball rollin' for you. Many past posts on the subject, but here's how I typically do it. I build my neck, glue the fretboard, prepare the box for the neck..really, I build the git, string it up, then start trial fitting bolt nuts and larger bolt bridges, or wooden bridges. I fit my bridges and nuts based on how the string-to-neck height initially appears (experience will hone your "eyeballing"), and play it. I can then use smaller or larger diameter bolts, or taller/shorter bridges to fine tune the action and sound.
I think you were asking "how high/low should I start?", and I'm sure there will be more precise starting points offered to help you. What I described is where I start, as every git I've made has been different. Build it, adjust it, play it. Works pretty well for me. Best of luck on your "trials".