classcal guitar action question

[J L S]

I bought a cheapie type classical guitar off ebay and just received it last night. Its an Epi model EN-10, in mint condition. For a all laminate guitar it really doesnt sound too bad. Pretty good actually.The case it came in is great, two tone leather look hard case. Not real leather Im sure. But, here is my main question. What is the main reason for the higher action on a classical guitar? If I lower it will the sound be decreased in loudness? its fairly loud right now but the higher action would take alot to get ued to.. So what do you fellers think about lowering it?

[Freeman Keller]

The main reason the action is so much higher is that the string have a much greater vibrating amplitude due to their lower tension. I don't remember the exact numbers I used when I built mine (I can check tonight) but I recall something like 3mm low E and 2.5 high E or maybe it was 3.5 and 3. If you lower it too much you'll definitely get some buzzing.

 

Setting up a classical is considerably different than a steel string. The nut clearance should be about the same but the strings are usually spaced equally on centers and the slots are approximately the same diameter (strings are closer to the same diameter). Relief is planed into the fretboard so you have no control over that (I had to do some very slight fret filing and crowning at the neck joint). Because the strings are approximately the same diameter the saddle is not slanted to intonate - it is done all at once. And lastly, the action should be higher because of the lessened tension.

 

If you want to know the numbers I used let me know - I can look it up.

[riffmeister]

 

The main reason the action is so much higher is that the string have a much greater vibrating amplitude due to their lower tension. I don't remember the exact numbers I used when I built mine (I can check tonight) but I recall something like 3mm low E and 2.5 high E or maybe it was 3.5 and 3. If you lower it too much you'll definitely get some buzzing.

 

 

 

Yes, exactly!

 

2-3 mm treble side

3-4 mm bass side

 

is typical string height at the 12th fret.

[Stackabones]

Congrats on the cheapie classical, J! Of course, I think at a certain price they can no longer be called "classical" but gut string.

 

BTW, here's a cool article on recording & the Epi C-10, a cousin of your EN-10.

 

http://www.vintageguitar.com/brands/details.asp?ID=156

[J L S]

thanks for the great replies everyone, The string height info wont be needed F.K. but thanks for offering. Its turning out to be a nice little player. pretty good volume and easy playing Sometimes you just need the sound of the nylon.

[J L S]

Congrats on the cheapie classical, J! Of course, I think at a certain price they can no longer be called "classical" but gut string . BTW, here's a cool article on recording & the Epi C-10, a cousin of your EN-10. http://www.vintageguitar.com/brands/details.asp?ID=156

 

Thanks for the link,Stack. The article pretty much cover the git, except mine has a gloss fiish that looks pretty good. alittle glue slop where the neck meets the soundhole but not much. I dont mind for the price.

[32-20-Blues]

Have you started growing your nails yet?

[J L S]

Have you started growing your nails yet?

 

I can't grow nails, they keep breaking off and are weak. I think its from diabetes. not sure though.i