CAL-K1
Page 8
over-tighten the truss rod. Sighting along the neck should show a very slight concave tendency
– this is
called “relief” and too straight a neck may lead to “fret buzzing”. Some strings may need to be raised or
lowered individually to give the correct action and this can be adjusted using the smaller of the 2 hex
keys provided.
Once the desired action is achieved, all that remains is to set the vibrato tension and intonation. After
tuning up all the strings, the spring claw may need tightening (or slackening) in the rear cavity to make
the vibrato system “float” (note: some players prefer that the bridge lies completely flat against the
body). Also, the harmonic at the 12
th
fret should be the same as a fretted note in this position. Adjusting
the saddle for each string back or forth on the bridge can compensate for inconsistencies with this.
Careful listening and gentle adjustment until the 2 notes match will achieve correct intonation.
Please also remember that over time, slight adjustments may need to be made and different gauges of
strings will need compensating for in the set up.
Pickup height can now be adjusted for best performance and balance by adjusting the screws at top
and bottom of each pickup. As a general rule, hold down the strings at the 22
nd
fret and adjust so that
the strings are at least 2mm clear of the pickup. Any pickups that are noticeably louder than others can
be made quieter by adjusting them further away from the strings.
For future adjustments, keep these instructions as a reference and enjoy your custom made Chord
CAL guitar.
©
2010
www.chordmusic.co.uk
