Hi Chip . . . I am the (proud?) owner of a brand new Gibson SG. The guitar I've been wanting to own for ten years or better! Anyways, THE DAMN THING WON'T STAY IN TUNE!!! I've had the intonation set, and a new set of Grover tuners installed. The tuners made a world of difference as the guitar was unplayable up to that point, but it is still a beast! I am curious if you have heard of or experienced any similar problems with Gibson SG's? The sound and action of the guitar are both great. I can't believe with the number of them out there being used that there isn't some trick of the trade? Thanks for your help. Tracy Chip answers: The Gibson SG is a great classic guitar, but the problem described in this question is not uncommon in this model, and similar double cutaway electrics. The neck joint is farther down the neck than on most other models, so there is a longer section of playable neck. This allows for a great amount of accessible fretboard for the player, but also allows for a more flexible neck. This flexibility can translate to instability and this can translate to tuning problems. Here are some factors in this or any tuning problem. Strings can bind up in the nut if it is not cut properly for the gauge you are using. Another factor with tuning difficulties I would want to know about if I were your repairman is your string choice: are you consistent, using the same gauge and brand at each string change? Are you changing the strings before they get worn out and cruddy? Also, the style and adjustment of the tailpiece will affect tuning, as will the string saddles at the bridge. Any active player should learn how to check their intonation. Master repairman Dan Erlewine has a good article in the November 2000 Guitar Player on intonation and adjustments. Here is a quick rundown on a way to check your instrument out. Plug into a tuner. Hit the harmonic at the 12th fret of any string and then check the open string. I also check the fretted note at the 12th fret. If they are all pretty close to in tune, you’re likely to be okay with that string, if all other factors are under control. Remember that no guitar is perfectly in tune. A few things worth noting: it is best to check the intonation with the guitar in the playing position, especially on a long neck instrument such as the SG. When the guitar is laid down flat, the neck will sit differently than in the playing position, especially if it is particularly slinky. The guitar should be in good adjustment in terms of action, truss rod, tailpiece settings and nut. Ideally, the strings should be new or pretty new, certainly not old and crusty. Also, the guitar should be carefully strung, not sloppily. If your instrument still gives you trouble after you and a repairperson have checked it over, it may be a candidate for the Perfect Pitch: a nice toss into the nearest dumpster! No . . . don’t do that . . . most of these problems can be resolved with patience and a methodical approach. Your repairman may see things about your instrument that don’t occur to me here, either. Hopefully, your repairman is getting more sleep than I am these days. . . . I got lots of letters this month, many thanks, and don’t hesitate to write me at jumpinsomethin@aol.com.
Chip Wilson Email at: jumpinsomethin@aol.com Website at: www.jumpinsomethin.com
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