By RG Guitar Tech | Guitar Setup & Repair in Kimberley, Nottingham
Every guitar player knows the feeling—something’s not quite right. Maybe your strings feel stiff, your tuning drifts, or your tone just doesn’t sing like it used to. These aren’t quirks. They’re signs your guitar is overdue for a proper setup.
At RG Guitar Tech, I treat every instrument like it has its own DNA. No two guitars wear the same, play the same, or respond the same. That’s why I use custom setup checklists and precision tools to bring each one back to life. Whether you’re gigging, recording, or just jamming at home, here’s how to tell when your guitar needs attention—and what a professional setup can do for your sound.
1. It Won’t Stay in Tune
If you’re constantly retuning—even with fresh strings—it’s time to look deeper. Common culprits include poorly cut nut slots, worn machine heads, or a bridge that’s shifted over time. A proper setup includes inspecting and adjusting all these components to ensure your tuning stays rock solid, even under heavy playing.
2. The Action Feels Off
Action refers to the height of your strings above the frets. Too high, and it’s a fight to play. Too low, and you’ll get fret buzz. If your guitar feels stiff or inconsistent across the neck, it could be down to neck relief, saddle height, or uneven frets. I measure everything with precision tools and adjust to suit your playing style—whether you like it low and fast or high and clean.
3. Chords Sound Off Higher Up the Neck
Ever notice that your open strings are in tune, but chords higher up sound sour? That’s intonation. It’s affected by saddle position, string gauge, and even fret wear. A full setup includes intonation correction
4. Scratchy Pots, Noisy Jacks, and Grime
If your volume or tone knobs crackle, or your input jack cuts out mid-song, you’re dealing with dirty or oxidized components. I use finish-safe cleaning techniques and contact-safe solutions to restore smooth operation without damaging your guitar’s finish. It’s not just about looks—it’s about reliability.
5. Sharp Fret Ends or Flat Spots
Fret ends can shrink back in dry conditions, leaving sharp edges that catch your fingers. Flat spots under the strings can kill sustain and make bends feel gritty. I offer fret dressing and edge smoothing as part of my advanced setup service, restoring playability and comfort.
6. Bridge or Nut Wear
Over time, nuts wear down and bridges shift. This affects string spacing, tuning stability, and overall feel. I inspect and adjust these components with care, using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure everything’s aligned and responsive.
7. Neck Twist or Warp
If your guitar feels uneven across the strings or has dead spots, it could be a twisted neck. This is more common than people think, especially with older instruments. I assess neck alignment and use truss rod adjustments or recommend further work if needed.
8. It Just Doesn’t Feel Right
Sometimes it’s not one thing—it’s a combination. Maybe the strings feel lifeless, the tone lacks punch, or the guitar just doesn’t inspire you. That’s when a full setup can make all the difference. I treat every guitar like a unique build, using custom checklists and precision tools to restore feel, tone, and playability.
Book Your Setup in Kimberley, Nottingham
Whether you play electric, acoustic, or bass, I offer expert setup and repair services with transparent pricing and fast turnaround. Located in Kimberley, Nottingham, RG Guitar Tech is your local hub for precision, reliability, and tone that inspires.
Call, message, or WhatsApp to book your setup today. Your guitar deserves it.