STRINGS AND TUNING MACHINES
If strings become dirty, discolored, or produce a dull sound or buzz,
replace the strings with new ones. For best results we recommend
replacing one string at a time, this will help to avoid removing the string
tension from the neck. When replacing strings with different gauge
strings, it may be necessary to adjust the truss rod tension. (We
recommend only qualified technicians perform this.) Instruments that
have tremolo systems installed may need to be adjusted after string
replacement as changes in string tension can cause the tremolo to raise
or lower. Please follow the instructions below for your particular model.
The strings should be tightly wound on to the
tuning machines from top to bottom with 2 to 3
string wraps around the post. In the case of
unwound guitar strings, the ends of the strings
should be prepared as shown in the diagram to
prevent unintentional slippage from the posts.
In the case of tuning machines, where the string
ends are
i n s e r t e d
into the
posts, the
string can be cut to length in
advance using a pair of string
cutters.
If the tuning machines are sealed
gear units, they are self-
lubricating types. The set screws
for the tuning knob are adjustment
screws that can be tightened with
a small Philips head screwdriver to
increase the tension.
*The use of coarse strings may lead to
buzzing and sound distortion. Using
strings that have twists or kinks may
cause buzzing or decreased sustain.
Make sure that the new strings are
smooth and free from any defects
before installing.
1
3
2
Ibanez steel string
guitars and basses are
equipped with
adjustable truss rods.
The purpose of a truss
rod is to adjust the
neck to counteract
string tension. There
are many reasons for
truss rod adjustments.
One of the most
frequent reasons is changing string gauges or tuning pitch which can
affect string tension. String tension changes may affect the string height
and cause fret buzz or notes that don’t ring true.
To adjust the truss rod,
locate the truss rod nut and
adjust it by inserting the
correct wrench into the nut
and tightening (clockwise) or
loosening (counter clockwise)
the rod. Truss rod tension
can be measured by
installing a capo at the first
fret the holding the strings down at the fret position where the neck joins
the body. Insert a thickness gauge between the string and the fret at the
8th fret. There should between 0.3mm to 0.5mm clearance. That
clearance is referred to as “neck relief.” Too much neck relief can cause
the neck to have higher action in the middle of the neck causing poor
intonation and uncomfortable playability. No neck relief can cause fret
buzz.
*Appropriate care must be taken when adjusting the neck and we recommend only qualified
technicians perform this procedure.
LOOSEN
TIGHTEN
LOOSEN
TIGHTEN
LOOSEN
TIGHTEN
8th fret
NECK
ACTION
Ibanez guitar string action is set at the factory.
However there are many reasons that an
instrument’s string height can change.
Instruments can be affected by changes in
temperature and moisture. High string action can
make the guitar difficult to play. If the string
action is too low, fret buzz or unclear notes can
occur. In the case of string action, make sure the
guitar is in tune and the truss rod is adjusted
properly. Ibanez action is set at the 14th fret. The
action may also need to be
readjusted after the neck has
been adjusted or strings have
been changed to a different
gauge. Follow the instructions in
the relevant bridge manual to
make adjustments.
*If strings other than those described above
are used, gradually increase the action clearance from the treble side through to the bass side.
INTONATION
Intonation adjustment is the operation of adjusting the location of the
string at the saddle to compensate for different string gauges or
different tunings. Follow the instructions of the particular bridge
intonation below. Intonation is properly set when the 12th fret note and
the 12th fret harmonic are exactly the same note . This is the center point
of the scale and the most accurate way of setting a standard scale
length. With the harmonic note as the standard, if the fretted note is flat
move the bridge saddle forward toward the headstock (a) to decrease
the string length. If the fretted note is sharp, move it back away from the
headstock (b) to
increase the string
length intonation
adjustments.
*Please note that strings can be
broken when the saddle is moved,
so always loosen the strings
before making adjustments.
TREBLE SIDE
BASS SIDE
SOLID GUITARS
1.5mm
2.0mm
SEMI ACOUSTIC GUITARS
FULL ACOUSTIC
1.7mm
2.3mm
GUITARS
BASSES
2.0mm
2.5mm
PICKUPS
The output level of the instrument as
well as the quality of the signal can be
affected by the pickup height. Pickup
height should be adjusted until the
volume of neck and bridge pickups are
almost equal with both volumes wide
open. The volume may drop drastically
if the pickup height is too low. As the
pickups are magnetic, fret buzzing and
distortion may occur if the pickup is
too close to the strings. Use a small
screwdriver to make adjustments to
raise or lower the pickup.
*Instruments that have adjustable pole pieces can be
adjusted to balance the output of each string.
BATTERY
Instruments with EQ sections or active pickups have batteries that need
to be replaced periodically. Replace the battery when the sound
becomes distorted or if you notice a volume decrease. To maximize
battery life remove the plug from the output jack when the guitar is not in
use, this turns off the circuit.
