Dr. Groovy, you just dispelled a lifetime of fear, doubt & anxiety for countless guitarists in regards to a truss rod!. In less than 2-minutes, no less!
LOL, thanks David. When talking to stringed instrument players of pro and legendary status (violin, cello etc.), they all tell me the same thing when it comes to "fingerboard conditioning" and oils etc. It's always "Why is it that once someone puts frets on a fingerboard that they lose all common sense? No....they never need anything, maybe just a good rubbing with a cloth now and then"). They all laugh at the "snake oil" that guitarists fall for.
Yup to it all. The *only* thing I'd add, is that the only reason that anyone should ever step foot into a Guitar Center (or Sam Ash) is because they don't want to piss on a bush in the parking lot. I watched an employee and a manager spend about 10 minutes looking for a left handed amp on the floor. The trick is being able to ask for one while keeping a straight face.
Hey Scott, Anthony here. I'm so glad someone has the forwithall to "call a spade a spade". I've been playing for over 45 yrs and from the beginning, even as a kid, a rosewood fretboard just seemed like it slowed my playing down. I recently bought a MIM Strat, (with newly installed Fender Tex-Mex pups). Here's the kicker - There was an American made strat sitting beside this one. I could've had it for $200 more. Two things changed my mind. one, the MIM Strat had a maple neck and two? The Mexi-Strat played way better. I'm going to subscribe and thank you for being a voice of reason! Can't wait to go back and look at the rest of your videos.
Scott your right the Elixir strings are the best. Took some real brain like you to tell me whats good and whats bad. Never go back to the old strings I was using on my strat. Thanks so much
About time there's someone like me that's not falling for the "proper procedure" crap or what's the proper oil to use on my neck garbage they try to feed us. This guy makes more sense and is not afraid to go back to basics and common sense. Thanks!!
Your videos are awesome! I am a certified luthier, I build my own guitars, carve the necks etc...everything from raw materials. I will say that I agree with everything you said in here (especially that each player needs to learn how, and not be afraid of adjusting the truss rod, cleaning, and maintaining the instrument), except that lemon oil (not linseed oil, that stuff sucks in the worst way possible) is actually good for your fret board. Water is good also, because the whole point is to add moisture to the wood. Water or oil actually expands the wood and tightens the hold that the fret board has on the frets. In my opinion, a player should use whichever works best in their environment and what they like the feel of best. The only advantage to lemon oil is that it will not cause your frets to corrode and the moisture actually stays in the wood longer. If you use water, and you are careful to dry the frets completely, it wont hurt anything. Again, I subscribe to and love your videos...just had to throw my opinion in because I am rather passionate about guitars.
Awesome video Scott, I know people who have played for YEARS that won't change their own strings let alone adjust the truss rod. Drives me crazy! It is because of you and a few others on youtube I do EVERYTHING myself on my guitars. I know you don't need to make these FREE videos so just a big Thank you! love what you do! I'm recovering from a stroke and guitar is one of the things that helps keep me from blowing my fucking brains out so really appreciate what you are doing. Peace.
Thanks Glenn, Mercy, it sounds like you and I are leading the same "after stroke" life. I always want to paint the walls with my brains, but I keep my mind on guitars and what I can do to try to help people out with it. I know that most of the guitarded folks wish I would go through with it, but that doesn't help anybody. lol So, stick with us my friend. That's a bitch of a road to be on and I wish you nothing but the best. Give me a shout if you ever need to. I deal with the same thing every single day. I don't know what I can do other than be here for you, but.......I'm here for you! Cheers, Scott
LOL. It's funny how all of the finest instruments in the world, the Stratavarious violins, the amazing cellos,violas, etc. all simply use a bit of water and a rub down and as soon as people put frets on that wood......their I.Q.'s drop a hundred points and people start dumping oils, lighter fluid and even Linseed Oil (A FINISH....not even a "conditioner"). lol Guitarists sure are a breed of their own for sure.
Hey Scott, I am a beginning guitar player and just found your videos, Not only do you give straight forward advice, but looking through the comment section you take the time to answer questions for people. The amount of time you must spend making these videos and responding to comments is amazing.. You have already saved me money with this video, and due to your videos I am also replacing my strings with Elixir Polywebs to see how they work for me. Thank you for taking the time to put this information out there,
Rag and water, been doing it for 30+ years now and never had any fret troubles. I only take all my strings off when my frets are dirty and warrant me cleaning them, after that you should good for at least 3 or 4 string changes until the next time. Great video guys!
I just started playing, I mean learning, guitar 6 weeks ago. And started searching for great videos and found your channel. So refreshing, down to earth, entertaining and informative. Love it. Thank you. I'll keep coming back and watch much more. A happy subscriber.
LOL, Scott you made me spit my drink all over my laptop. Great video, laughed my ass off. Especially when you were cleaning the fret-board with that rag.
Amen a Guitarist who tells the whole truth and nothing but. I'm fucking mad at myself for listening to all the Bull shitters who have the nerve to call themselves Musicians!!! Yeah you know who are!!! From the sales people at music stores to the these so called fret worriers "BASTARDS" Well I used to love Exilar strings they were great. Until 3yrs ago. 1St I thought I was seeing things. I bought a Bronze set for my Acoustic and had noticed it said Nanoweb!!! Well I thought nothing of it and used them to my horror after just 2 weeks they went black around the sound hole of my guitar. I thought funny cuz the set I bought before and I had them for about 2 years. I only changed them cuz 2 of the strings had snapped. Well thanks to your information I went on to Amazon and got Polywebs. 4 months later the strings are still like brand new. I'm like you mate cuz I sweat like hell. I also used to use Lemon oil on my Les Paul....... Not anymore just used a little water and the shit that came of the fret board was amazing and not only that the neck feels smooth the fret board feels silky smooth not oily. No more getting ripped of for Gibson guitar polish at £10.99 a pop don't ask me what that is in Dollors lol. I used a little water to clean the whole instrument and now my Les Paul looks brand new. Thank God For Scott Grove Keep Spreading the truth Buddy!!!!
Bravo, Scott! This is the kind of shit that really helps. That said, may I brazenly make a request? Do you think you could do a video on soldering/wiring mods such as: 1) bypassing the tone knob and wiring it straight through to the output jack 2) converting a standard 3-single-coil 5-way-switch configuration to 3 on/off switches? (i.e. knob three) I know that's asking a lot, BUT: These are twoof your many great design tips on your custom axes.
I had someone try to tell me about the "If you change all of the stings at once, you'll warp the neck." Like any normal person, it's easy to know that the neck won't become "unusable" like most people believe. I mean, wood is pretty strong and it does alter slightly in different weather conditions, but taking strings off for a few minutes won't damage the neck lol.
Fuck everyone who had anything negative to say. The fact that you took time out of your day to teach and share your knowledge is awesome in itself. I can say I learned a lot from you and I dig your attitude in the videos. So thanks man, I really appreciate it.
was always worried of trust rod adjustment but watched this and it worked a dream! thank you man!! love your videos! loved the honest review on your ace too!
Love your attitude man, a lot of people really needed this. Its all simple shit I don't know why people literally pay hundreds of dollars for this, when it could take only 10 maybe 15 minutes to do themselves for free.
i am a first time guitar buyer and player. i bought the epiphone les Paul special ll LE player pack. I am so glad I came across your chanell. You saved me a lot of time and money.THANK YOU I'm looking forward to watching your videos
I am so glad I found your channel. As a beginner who also prefers DIY (if you want it done right, do it yourself) you've taken all the mystery out of guitar setup, cleaning, etc that the sales guys at the local store scare you into buying a "service plan". I also no longer worry about buying used guitars, that's for sure! Keep up the great work.
I love it, excellent wisdom Scott! When I was at Schecter around 1980 I lugged jars of linseed oil to Japan to lubricate my non-finished walnut bodied strat that weighed a ton. Wacko!
Just started watching your videos this weekend and really appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I have been playing about 12 years know and have even built a couple of guitars to better suit my playing style and the info you have provided is EXTREMELY helpful. Thanks a mill.
Scott, thanks Doctor for the reply yesterday, glad you are in good spirits again. i know you get your off days, but we still love you buddy. and thanks for thinking of me as a friend. i never ever tried to adjust a truss rod before, but now i get the idea. also dont forget buddy i always value your knowledge and good nature, i happy you got the stat, cause i know you like em allot. catch up with you soon. regards luigi.
You are a great friend Luigi and I'm always glad to hear from you and I ALWAYS, ALWAYS appreciate your support and well wishes and I wish the same for you and your family!
Thanks to you Scott my Dean Dave Mustaine Zero finally plays like it should! Finally understood which way to turn the trussrod to fix the bowing and also noticed the action was way higher than it needed to be. Keep it up Dr. Groovy!
Hi Dr Groovy, a great rule of thumb, if you're new to the workings of the truss rod or an old hand at turning: always back off/loosen the truss rod first a quarter/half turn to test how it works and how tight/loose it is. But don't be afraid of it at all. The first fifteen years I played the truss rod was always mentioned as a total no-go area and every other player I knew were too scared to go near it. Pretty ridiculous. Groove on Scott.
Hey Scott I really appreciate all of your videos ; all of the info you share and how you cut thru all the bullshit and deliver straight facts. Many thanks !
Why would any pay money to have their guitar adjusted we have this magical thing called the Internet use it. I've never payed anyone to adjust my guitar
EXACTLY! There are so many folks on there to walk everyone through this stuff. Everybody is just scared to adjust their axe for the first time. The days of paying for a setup that involves anything less than a fret replacement....those SHOULD be long behind us.
Funny, informative, I have seen your setup video's but this one is truly a peace of art, very entertaining, educational. My synaptic data has been updated and encoded, for all time.
Agree. I once had a guitar professionally set up for $60. After watching video tutorials here on TH-cam, I am now re stringing guitars with floating trems like the ibanez edge trems, a little tricky but nothing you can't do.
As with anything, guitar repair shops will only put in the time they get paid for so for $60 you probably won't get a full bridge, neck and nut setup along with truss adjustment. I can adjust my own saddles and truss rod and neck angle - any grubby fret tops can be buffed shiny with Jeweler's Rouge or 0000 super fine steel wool, being sure to protect the fretboard. I'd like to get a full set of nut and fret working tools.
Oh and an old Kramer's Floyd Rose was the first vibrato system I leaned to set up so yeah, that IS trial and error isn't it - the right position and intonation.
Also can use Flitz Metal Polish and Fiberglass Cleaner to clean frets No acids in it will not harm wood also no toxic. little cloth zoom done. Just thought I would throw that in Dr. Fantastic videos !!!!!
I just watched another video of an "expert" using a credit card and a razor blade to scrape his fretboard clean and then rub lemon oil on it because it looked "dehydrated".....that's why I just listen to scott
Lesson of this video folks: A business man don't let others put hands in his business, do it yourself, and be a grown man... Dr. Goovy finished with a lot of guitar care legends!!!! Thanks for the vid and for finishing it like a boss!!!
Thanks much Joao my man! You rock! I always appreciate the support and glad that you at least consider the things in my videos. That's all I can ask of anyone. Peace brother!
A really simple reason that everybody should know how to adjust the truss rod: Once it gets adjusted to feel perfect, over the next day or two the neck can resettle so that it's suddenly off again - either too loose, or overdone too tight. If you get this done at a store, you'll pay money for a guitar that feels like garbage within 48 hours! If you know how to do it yourself, then you can do the main job and then the fine adjustment later on without any problem. And yes, I just did this in the last couple days with my acoustic guitar. I got it feeling perfect last night, and then this morning I had to back the truss rod off slightly to get rid of some fret buzz.
No a qualified shop store lets it settle in before returning the instrument. Also it's good to assess if the nut is too high or otherwise part of the problem. You can learn to do that with a gauge but a shop should adjust or replace a faulty nut as part of the string height, saddles and neck angle also. A small truss rod tightening at a time is better than overshooting, let it settle one small turn at a time.
I'm going to be picking up a guitar and learning to play after not having touched one in about 30 years. I've watched a lot of videos on YT about playing. Your videos are the first ones I've stumbled across that are about the care and feeding of a guitar. You have a colourful way of presenting the information that may rub some people the wrong way but you can't be faulted for what you are saying. The information in this video will be taken to heart in how I take care of my guitar. I've already watched your videos on hanging guitars to avoid problems with the finish, about different strings, one that mentioned issues with capos and tuners, and I see on on the side about guitar pick comparisons that I'll be watching next. I have subscribed and will be checking out your past videos.
EXCELLENT INFO ... I am learning more from you and your TH-cam posts that Any & Everything I Have EVERY Seen or Heard . . . Also, I WILL be purchasing your lessons on the Flash Drive. . . More Info and Correct Info Than I Have Received In My LIFETIME of Wanting To Learn CORRECTLY Without All The Lengthy Bull Crap. ... I Am Enjoying how you get right to the point and your humorous and yes even entertaining way of getting your information across to the viewers. VERY MUCH APPRECIATED & THANK YOU SCOTT FOR SHARING YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCES WITH US.
I just stumbled on to your video about cleaning and restringing the Strat and I have to say THANK YOU ! For the honest and sensible info! I hope I didn’t miss anything important by laughing so hard…!! 🤣 Thanks man…….!
Great vid Dr Groovy! I work on peoples guitars all the time, not because I am trying to rip them off and make a quick buck, but because they are terrified to do it themselves. I never let them watch because they would have a freaking cow. Thanks for all the great videos and it's so awesome to see you in a good mood. All your subscribers, (myself included) love you and your wonderful straightforward advice. Thanks again!
LOL you crack me up. Holy shit, you are answering like every question I have had...ever.. do you have an all-seeing eyeball in your pocket!? LOL Keep up the awesome work.
Thanks again for the tips, this was a massive help in setting up my guitars, one thing I will say is that the yellow fret erasers are actually 1000 grit, not 100 grit, the extra 0 was erased if you look back at 12:05
I agree with him completely. just do your research and don’t be afraid to do it yourself. never pay someone something you can do your self, especially what they charge for something so simple to do.
Thanks Mike! Yeah, doing great my man and check out tonight's new video. It's a lot different than any of the others have ever been. I'm converting it now and will start uploading it in about an hour or so.
THANK YOU Scott ! I learned so much from this video! I'll never pay for a set up again! You're right! Why pay someone to do what you should learn to do yourself! Thanks again ! Keep up the great videos!!
Sir Terrance! That is awesome my friend. Yeah, between my videos and others that KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING here on TH-cam....there's no reason to give your hard earned money away. You can learn EVERYTHING that makes up these simple instruments on here and take care of them. They are much easier to take care of than a bicycle! Have fun! Cheers!
Start calling you little Elvis you got the act by the neck. Scratching gravel all the way. Thank you for giving us normal dogs new tricks your by far the best music teacher and commandant on the net. Best regards mike mitchell from the paste board mountains in southern Illinois. You the bomb
I loosen strings before cutting, for one simple reason: I really don't want anything flying up and poking me! I don't go overboard, just 10 seconds max per string with the winding crank. It's simply about my own safety, not any meaningless concern for the neck. Thanks for the water tip ages ago, on cleaning rosewood! I've found that an eyeglass polishing cloth does the job. Wet one corner of the cloth to wipe the board, then use another corner to rub it dry.
Hey, Scott! I listened to your rant on rosewood picking up dirt and I am sick of constantly cleaning it before changing the strings. So I bought some polywebs (again, thanks to you) and I decided I will not put them on before I lacquer my fretboard. I actually used shellac to lacquer it and it turned out nice and shiny. You cant even tell it's not polyurethane. I know shellac is not as durable as poly, but it serves the purpose. I did it on a cheap chinese guitar, but now I will do it on a still cheap, but better schecter guitar I own. Just wanted to let you know. Cheers!
SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET! Keep me posted on how it does over time. I would love to know YOUR thoughts on it and how the Shellac works. SUPERB! Way to think outside the box!
groovydjs Glad you like my idea, Scott. Well, it's been painted two weeks ago and it's holding up great! I didn't play that much though, only a few hours for the whole week. Anyway, it's good, but it takes practice and patience to do a good job (visualy). If you're not worried about the looks, it can be done fairly quickly. I didn't have blonde shellac (not available here in Serbia), so I used a standard orange. It's ok, but the white inlays turn yellowish, which makes the guitar look very vintage. It's ok if that's what you like, but I would rather go with blonde shellac, as I prefer it looking like new. So, I'll be ordering some from USA, and paint my other guitar neck. I don't think there'll be any wear from usage in a long time. So I am satisfied, but it's too early to tell. I'll keep you updated. Cheers!
Great stuff man! You need to do one thing though, get some proper cutters! Using a pair of needle nose from Dad's old tool box makes me cringe. I only own the best tools, the right tool for the job is my motto. I have been a career motor cycle technician for over 20 years. I have played guitar for over 40 years. If you like I would be happy to send you a pair of proper cutters. You have given us so much knowledge that I feel like giving back in the only way I can think of. Your a great teacher and I really appreciate the depth that you go into on each and every video. The stick it to the man attitude only serves to make it even better!
Scott, you've helped me so much over the last few weeks with your videos. I'm just getting back into playing after a long hiatus (the only internet back then was those damn dial-up bulletin boards), and the only way to get much of the info you dole out gratis was at the Ivory Tower of Luthiers. Thanks to you my guitar is setup perfectly and (because of a great ebay vid you did) I scored a decent 5w Blackstar for about $100... it was misspelled. Cheers man! Know you're very much appreciated and hope you're feeling well!
Hi I've learned so much from you. I've played 52 years I never caught on I'm scared of new Stuff. I can't thank you enough for everything. Thanks no kidding. Jimmy c
Scott with the way that the video title breaks on my screen you scared the crap outta me. It looked like you were recommending changing strings "1 At A Time". I just knew that you had suffered brain damage due to being electrocuted by one of your Johnson amps. Then when I saw you tear through all those suckers it made my day.
There's no real need for me to write this but I just wanted to let you know that I LOVE watching your stuff! Although I have no need to watch all of these videos 'cause I know most of that stuff (although I did learned a lot from you, Sir, thanks for that!), I still do. I simply enjoy watching those videos and think you are one hell of an awesome nutcase! (in the nicest possible way). I listen to your videos in the background whilst I work and I just laugh my ass off to the way you explain stuff, love it! Keep on posting 'cause there are people out there who really love your stuff, me included! :) So yeah, thanks for sharing your knowledge and enjoy your day, Sir! :)
The amount of water used here is negligible, but oil does the same for hydrating the wood and is more permanent than water. The reason why anyone would release tension is they don't want the wires snapping and scratching a finish. Start with the skinny strings, those are most likely to snap with tension if the strings are at that point of being dead. Besides, it's not their guitar, it's another's personal property. I usually agree with Scott, but oil is not going to loosen the frets here. One generally takes care of finer wood furniture, IKEA furniture nobody cares about. The frets have a serrated edges that bite into the wood and are also glued into their fret slots. Moisturizing the wood, water or oil is going to make the wood swell. Body oils & sweat can be filthy, acidic, polluted with whatever they smoke, drink or eat. Natural plant based wood oils are purer. If rosewood or any other wood type can absorb it, the purer the moisturizer, the better. Scott didn't damage this guitar, then again, he told you he was flipping it for profit. So why not refresh the guitar and make it showroom fresh & clean if it's your's, one you intend to own for years. What we saw here was abuse of another's guitar. Your guitar is like a child or pet, someone yanking on parts is the equivalent as having the video of the nanny or pet sitter abusing your child or pet. Pass even a flipped guitar to the next owner in pristine condition.It really bothers me to go to GC and see someone chip the finish mishandling the guitar. I may buy that guitar, I'm buying a new one, it should not be scratched, dented, chipped or whatever. Let me relic it with the mishandle or fumble. Keep that child away from the several hundred dollar instrument.
Rosewood and maple fretboards are a matter of personal preference. I happen to like rosewood. For me, my fingers tend to stick more when playing a maple fretboard with a polyurethane finish and I play smoother with a rosewood fretboard. Must be my body chemistry. I have rosewood fretboards on my Fender Stratocaster, 73 Gibson Les Paul and my Sanchis classical guitar. When changing strings I scrap the fretboard with an old credit card and cotton rag, use a fret eraser and when done I use a light amount of Gerlitz Guitar Honey conditioning and buff with a clean cotton rag. I also will use plain Turtle Wax on the guitar body and the back of the neck. This helps a lot with my classical guitar which has a French polish cedar top. This is what works for me and I am very happy with the results.
Hey Scott I really despise Luthier's so I made sure I watched all your video's about guitar setups. I watched them over and over again until I understood exactly how to do it. I refuse point blank to pay anyone for something you have shown me and everyone else. The trouble I had for a long time was how to actually sight the the neck in order to see if it is bowed or not. I now know what I am doing in that sense. It was all thanks to you my friend. P.S I hope things are a little better for you at home due to your loss. Hope you don't mind me saying. Regards Demon
i love the style ...i will argue one issue ...after 28 years of playing, a rosewood board well oiled feels better to me than a sealed maple board. My fingers don't distill alot of gunk though ...every one is different ....some players will gunk a rosewood board beyond belief.
Thank for the info Scott! I've heard that lemon oil contains something called d-limonene, which in some cases is actually used to remove paint and glue. You could maybe use another type of oil to condition a very dry ebony board, but certainly don't want to get lemon oil down in the fret slots, or they will definitely fall out over time. Some use mineral oil, or even hemp oil(insert your favorite joke here), but the humidified room is the best option, as you suggested.
Been changing the strings on my Floyd-based Ibanez's for 25 years - the same guitars, still the best playing instruments ever. He's totally spot on here.
I couldn't agree more about truss rod adjustment. Don't be afraid to do it, there's plenty of good instruction on TH-cam, and save your money for guitars!
Hey Scott, I love your videos and completely agree with you on everything you talk about other than the neck tension thing. I was modding my 97' Pro Tone Strat and took the strings off and left them off. About a week later I started working on it again and there was a surface crack from the neck pocket to the trem cavity, and some poly chipped off. Doesn't really matter to me but I guess it can screw shit up when they're off for a long period of time...
I've been playing the guitar as 2nd instrument for a few years now and have always been scared shit of breaking the thing if I play around with trust-rod because on most channels we are told not to touch this and bring them the money! Thanks for sharing the knowledge. I sure wont be paying anyone ever again.
Dr. Groovy, you just dispelled a lifetime of fear, doubt & anxiety for countless guitarists in regards to a truss rod!. In less than 2-minutes, no less!
LOL, thanks David. When talking to stringed instrument players of pro and legendary status (violin, cello etc.), they all tell me the same thing when it comes to "fingerboard conditioning" and oils etc. It's always "Why is it that once someone puts frets on a fingerboard that they lose all common sense? No....they never need anything, maybe just a good rubbing with a cloth now and then"). They all laugh at the "snake oil" that guitarists fall for.
Yup to it all.
The *only* thing I'd add, is that the only reason that anyone should ever step foot into a Guitar Center (or Sam Ash) is because they don't want to piss on a bush in the parking lot.
I watched an employee and a manager spend about 10 minutes looking for a left handed amp on the floor.
The trick is being able to ask for one while keeping a straight face.
Lmmfao!!!😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
That's up there with sending someone for a long stand.
I hear you. Left-handed amps are seriously hard to find.
Hey Scott, Anthony here. I'm so glad someone has the forwithall to "call a spade a spade". I've been playing for over 45 yrs and from the beginning, even as a kid, a rosewood fretboard just seemed like it slowed my playing down. I recently bought a MIM Strat, (with newly installed Fender Tex-Mex pups). Here's the kicker - There was an American made strat sitting beside this one. I could've had it for $200 more. Two things changed my mind. one, the MIM Strat had a maple neck and two? The Mexi-Strat played way better. I'm going to subscribe and thank you for being a voice of reason! Can't wait to go back and look at the rest of your videos.
This video is hall of fame Scott Grove classic. I love when people keep it real and help others. Thanks Scott!
I love this guy and his no-nonsense attitude towards all the BS that goes around with guitars, haha. Straight to the point.
Scott your right the Elixir strings are the best. Took some real brain like you to tell me whats good and whats bad. Never go back to the old strings I was using on my strat. Thanks so much
About time there's someone like me that's not falling for the "proper procedure" crap or what's the proper oil to use on my neck garbage they try to feed us. This guy makes more sense and is not afraid to go back to basics and common sense. Thanks!!
Your videos are awesome! I am a certified luthier, I build my own guitars, carve the necks etc...everything from raw materials. I will say that I agree with everything you said in here (especially that each player needs to learn how, and not be afraid of adjusting the truss rod, cleaning, and maintaining the instrument), except that lemon oil (not linseed oil, that stuff sucks in the worst way possible) is actually good for your fret board. Water is good also, because the whole point is to add moisture to the wood. Water or oil actually expands the wood and tightens the hold that the fret board has on the frets. In my opinion, a player should use whichever works best in their environment and what they like the feel of best. The only advantage to lemon oil is that it will not cause your frets to corrode and the moisture actually stays in the wood longer. If you use water, and you are careful to dry the frets completely, it wont hurt anything. Again, I subscribe to and love your videos...just had to throw my opinion in because I am rather passionate about guitars.
Awesome video Scott, I know people who have played for YEARS that won't change their own strings let alone adjust the truss rod. Drives me crazy! It is because of you and a few others on youtube I do EVERYTHING myself on my guitars. I know you don't need to make these FREE videos so just a big Thank you! love what you do! I'm recovering from a stroke and guitar is one of the things that helps keep me from blowing my fucking brains out so really appreciate what you are doing. Peace.
Thanks Glenn, Mercy, it sounds like you and I are leading the same "after stroke" life. I always want to paint the walls with my brains, but I keep my mind on guitars and what I can do to try to help people out with it. I know that most of the guitarded folks wish I would go through with it, but that doesn't help anybody. lol So, stick with us my friend. That's a bitch of a road to be on and I wish you nothing but the best. Give me a shout if you ever need to. I deal with the same thing every single day. I don't know what I can do other than be here for you, but.......I'm here for you!
Cheers,
Scott
Yes the Dr. is in !!! Happy is a Great place to be! Thanks Doc.
Finally changed strings for the first time! Used poly webs! They sound awesome! Thanks for the help Scott!
Awesome my friend!
Killer video. Love this guy's sense of humor.
And Les Paul felt a disturbance in the force, as if a thousand luthiers cried out in disbelief and were suddenly silenced...by the truth
LOL. It's funny how all of the finest instruments in the world, the Stratavarious violins, the amazing cellos,violas, etc. all simply use a bit of water and a rub down and as soon as people put frets on that wood......their I.Q.'s drop a hundred points and people start dumping oils, lighter fluid and even Linseed Oil (A FINISH....not even a "conditioner"). lol Guitarists sure are a breed of their own for sure.
Hey Scott, I am a beginning guitar player and just found your videos, Not only do you give straight forward advice, but looking through the comment section you take the time to answer questions for people. The amount of time you must spend making these videos and responding to comments is amazing.. You have already saved me money with this video, and due to your videos I am also replacing my strings with Elixir Polywebs to see how they work for me. Thank you for taking the time to put this information out there,
Rag and water, been doing it for 30+ years now and never had any fret troubles. I only take all my strings off when my frets are dirty and warrant me cleaning them, after that you should good for at least 3 or 4 string changes until the next time. Great video guys!
Cool, Jason has it under control. That's all there is to it kids, the rest is not needed at all and you gain NOTHING at all by using anything else.
I just started playing, I mean learning, guitar 6 weeks ago. And started searching for great videos and found your channel. So refreshing, down to earth, entertaining and informative. Love it. Thank you. I'll keep coming back and watch much more. A happy subscriber.
LOL, Scott you made me spit my drink all over my laptop. Great video, laughed my ass off. Especially when you were cleaning the fret-board with that rag.
Amen a Guitarist who tells the whole truth and nothing but. I'm fucking mad at myself for listening to all the Bull shitters who have the nerve to call themselves Musicians!!! Yeah you know who are!!! From the sales people at music stores to the these so called fret worriers "BASTARDS" Well I used to love Exilar strings they were great. Until 3yrs ago. 1St I thought I was seeing things. I bought a Bronze set for my Acoustic and had noticed it said Nanoweb!!! Well I thought nothing of it and used them to my horror after just 2 weeks they went black around the sound hole of my guitar. I thought funny cuz the set I bought before and I had them for about 2 years. I only changed them cuz 2 of the strings had snapped. Well thanks to your information I went on to Amazon and got Polywebs. 4 months later the strings are still like brand new. I'm like you mate cuz I sweat like hell. I also used to use Lemon oil on my Les Paul....... Not anymore just used a little water and the shit that came of the fret board was amazing and not only that the neck feels smooth the fret board feels silky smooth not oily. No more getting ripped of for Gibson guitar polish at £10.99 a pop don't ask me what that is in Dollors lol. I used a little water to clean the whole instrument and now my Les Paul looks brand new. Thank God For Scott Grove Keep Spreading the truth Buddy!!!!
Thanks Scott, Played with my truss rod for the first time ever and it sounds great. Your a wealth of info keep it up. Chris from Aus.
Bravo, Scott! This is the kind of shit that really helps.
That said, may I brazenly make a request?
Do you think you could do a video on soldering/wiring mods such as:
1) bypassing the tone knob and wiring it straight through to the output jack
2) converting a standard 3-single-coil 5-way-switch configuration to 3 on/off switches? (i.e. knob three)
I know that's asking a lot, BUT:
These are twoof your many great design tips on your custom axes.
I just adjusted my first truss rod. Thanks!
Thanks for the heads up Scott. Peace to you and yours, and please keep up the good work.
I had someone try to tell me about the "If you change all of the stings at once, you'll warp the neck."
Like any normal person, it's easy to know that the neck won't become "unusable" like most people believe. I mean, wood is pretty strong and it does alter slightly in different weather conditions, but taking strings off for a few minutes won't damage the neck lol.
NO BS you're absolutely right!!!👍
What is that white bar between the saddles and the bridge pickup?
I think it’s a pickup.
Fuck everyone who had anything negative to say. The fact that you took time out of your day to teach and share your knowledge is awesome in itself. I can say I learned a lot from you and I dig your attitude in the videos. So thanks man, I really appreciate it.
I really like all of your videos Scott. I have learned a lot from your comments. Thanks.
was always worried of trust rod adjustment but watched this and it worked a dream! thank you man!! love your videos! loved the honest review on your ace too!
Many thanks man. I'm glad that it worked out for you. I've really got a thing against taking it "to the shop". lol Play loud!
Love your attitude man, a lot of people really needed this. Its all simple shit I don't know why people literally pay hundreds of dollars for this, when it could take only 10 maybe 15 minutes to do themselves for free.
i am a first time guitar buyer and player. i bought the epiphone les Paul special ll LE player pack. I am so glad I came across your chanell. You saved me a lot of time and money.THANK YOU I'm looking forward to watching your videos
I am so glad I found your channel. As a beginner who also prefers DIY (if you want it done right, do it yourself) you've taken all the mystery out of guitar setup, cleaning, etc that the sales guys at the local store scare you into buying a "service plan". I also no longer worry about buying used guitars, that's for sure! Keep up the great work.
I love it, excellent wisdom Scott! When I was at Schecter around 1980 I lugged jars of linseed oil to Japan to lubricate my non-finished walnut bodied strat that weighed a ton.
Wacko!
Just started watching your videos this weekend and really appreciate you sharing your knowledge. I have been playing about 12 years know and have even built a couple of guitars to better suit my playing style and the info you have provided is EXTREMELY helpful.
Thanks a mill.
Scott, thanks Doctor for the reply yesterday, glad you are in good spirits again. i know you get your off days, but we still love you buddy. and thanks for thinking of me as a friend. i never ever tried to adjust a truss rod before, but now i get the idea. also dont forget buddy i always value your knowledge and good nature, i happy you got the stat, cause i know you like em allot. catch up with you soon. regards luigi.
You are a great friend Luigi and I'm always glad to hear from you and I ALWAYS, ALWAYS appreciate your support and well wishes and I wish the same for you and your family!
Thanks Dr. Groovy for your easy to understand tips on trust rods and fret maintenance!!! Groovy man!!😎
Thanks to you Scott my Dean Dave Mustaine Zero finally plays like it should! Finally understood which way to turn the trussrod to fix the bowing and also noticed the action was way higher than it needed to be. Keep it up Dr. Groovy!
AWESOME! More money saved! That's what I like to hear my friend. Keep that hard earned money!
Cheers!
Hi Dr Groovy, a great rule of thumb, if you're new to the workings of the truss rod or an old hand at turning: always back off/loosen the truss rod first a quarter/half turn to test how it works and how tight/loose it is. But don't be afraid of it at all. The first fifteen years I played the truss rod was always mentioned as a total no-go area and every other player I knew were too scared to go near it. Pretty ridiculous. Groove on Scott.
You are not only extremely helpful but humorous too. Thank you. Great video.
Hey Scott
I really appreciate all of your videos ; all of the info you share and how you cut thru all the bullshit and deliver straight facts.
Many thanks !
"I got my PMS in guitarology, or my LSD or whatever it was" lmfao that was great
Why would any pay money to have their guitar adjusted we have this magical thing called the Internet use it. I've never payed anyone to adjust my guitar
EXACTLY! There are so many folks on there to walk everyone through this stuff. Everybody is just scared to adjust their axe for the first time. The days of paying for a setup that involves anything less than a fret replacement....those SHOULD be long behind us.
Funny, informative, I have seen your setup video's but this one is truly a peace of art, very entertaining, educational. My synaptic data has been updated and encoded, for all time.
Agree. I once had a guitar professionally set up for $60.
After watching video tutorials here on TH-cam, I am now re stringing guitars with floating trems like the ibanez edge trems, a little tricky but nothing you can't do.
As with anything, guitar repair shops will only put in the time they get paid for so for $60 you probably won't get a full bridge, neck and nut setup along with truss adjustment.
I can adjust my own saddles and truss rod and neck angle - any grubby fret tops can be buffed shiny with Jeweler's Rouge or 0000 super fine steel wool, being sure to protect the fretboard. I'd like to get a full set of nut and fret working tools.
Oh and an old Kramer's Floyd Rose was the first vibrato system I leaned to set up so yeah, that IS trial and error isn't it - the right position and intonation.
Also can use Flitz Metal Polish and Fiberglass Cleaner to clean frets No acids in it will not harm wood also no toxic. little cloth zoom done. Just thought I would throw that in Dr. Fantastic videos !!!!!
I just watched another video of an "expert" using a credit card and a razor blade to scrape his fretboard clean and then rub lemon oil on it because it looked "dehydrated".....that's why I just listen to scott
I love it! "quit being afraid to turn your truss rod" ...amen bro! it's pretty simple!
Lesson of this video folks: A business man don't let others put hands in his business, do it yourself, and be a grown man... Dr. Goovy finished with a lot of guitar care legends!!!! Thanks for the vid and for finishing it like a boss!!!
Thanks much Joao my man! You rock! I always appreciate the support and glad that you at least consider the things in my videos. That's all I can ask of anyone. Peace brother!
Truthful and right to the point!
Thanks so very much!
A really simple reason that everybody should know how to adjust the truss rod: Once it gets adjusted to feel perfect, over the next day or two the neck can resettle so that it's suddenly off again - either too loose, or overdone too tight.
If you get this done at a store, you'll pay money for a guitar that feels like garbage within 48 hours! If you know how to do it yourself, then you can do the main job and then the fine adjustment later on without any problem.
And yes, I just did this in the last couple days with my acoustic guitar. I got it feeling perfect last night, and then this morning I had to back the truss rod off slightly to get rid of some fret buzz.
No a qualified shop store lets it settle in before returning the instrument.
Also it's good to assess if the nut is too high or otherwise part of the problem. You can learn to do that with a gauge but a shop should adjust or replace a faulty nut as part of the string height, saddles and neck angle also.
A small truss rod tightening at a time is better than overshooting, let it settle one small turn at a time.
Thanks man, worked awesome. My 40 year old lotus strat style feels like a totally different guitar. Take care.
Thank you for this video. I really like how you simplify everything.
I'm going to be picking up a guitar and learning to play after not having touched one in about 30 years. I've watched a lot of videos on YT about playing. Your videos are the first ones I've stumbled across that are about the care and feeding of a guitar. You have a colourful way of presenting the information that may rub some people the wrong way but you can't be faulted for what you are saying.
The information in this video will be taken to heart in how I take care of my guitar. I've already watched your videos on hanging guitars to avoid problems with the finish, about different strings, one that mentioned issues with capos and tuners, and I see on on the side about guitar pick comparisons that I'll be watching next. I have subscribed and will be checking out your past videos.
EXCELLENT INFO ... I am learning more from you and your TH-cam posts that Any & Everything I Have EVERY Seen or Heard . . . Also, I WILL be purchasing your lessons on the Flash Drive. . . More Info and Correct Info Than I Have Received In My LIFETIME of Wanting To Learn CORRECTLY Without All The Lengthy Bull Crap. ... I Am Enjoying how you get right to the point and your humorous and yes even entertaining way of getting your information across to the viewers. VERY MUCH APPRECIATED & THANK YOU SCOTT FOR SHARING YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCES WITH US.
I just stumbled on to your video about cleaning and restringing the Strat and I have to say THANK YOU ! For the honest and sensible info! I hope I didn’t miss anything important by laughing so hard…!! 🤣
Thanks man…….!
You are so welcome!
11:05 made my day lol
Great vid Dr Groovy! I work on peoples guitars all the time, not because I am trying to rip them off and make a quick buck, but because they are terrified to do it themselves. I never let them watch because they would have a freaking cow. Thanks for all the great videos and it's so awesome to see you in a good mood. All your subscribers, (myself included) love you and your wonderful straightforward advice. Thanks again!
LOL you crack me up. Holy shit, you are answering like every question I have had...ever.. do you have an all-seeing eyeball in your pocket!? LOL Keep up the awesome work.
Man, I agree 100%. Not knowing how to set up your guitar is akin to not knowing how to change the oil in your engine.
Your poor E string was screaming before you snipped it. Nice. This makes sense.
Love you Scott...you always make me smile and laugh.
Blessings from London UK.
Thanks again for the tips, this was a massive help in setting up my guitars, one thing I will say is that the yellow fret erasers are actually 1000 grit, not 100 grit, the extra 0 was erased if you look back at 12:05
Scott, you are so cool, Sir! Love this Video!!!
I am a guitar tech,I see no problems with your methods.I agree 100%.
I agree with him completely. just do your research and don’t be afraid to do it yourself. never pay someone something you can do your self, especially what they charge for something so simple to do.
I use a tiny bit of lemon oil on the fret board. The frets will loosen like he says if you soak the frets down with oil.
Thumbs up, if I could. Much appreciation Scott. Hope you are in good health and spirits.
Thanks Mike! Yeah, doing great my man and check out tonight's new video. It's a lot different than any of the others have ever been. I'm converting it now and will start uploading it in about an hour or so.
THANK YOU Scott ! I learned so much from this video! I'll never pay for a set up again! You're right! Why pay someone to do what you should learn to do yourself! Thanks again ! Keep up the great videos!!
Sir Terrance! That is awesome my friend. Yeah, between my videos and others that KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING here on TH-cam....there's no reason to give your hard earned money away. You can learn EVERYTHING that makes up these simple instruments on here and take care of them. They are much easier to take care of than a bicycle! Have fun!
Cheers!
Start calling you little Elvis you got the act by the neck. Scratching gravel all the way. Thank you for giving us normal dogs new tricks your by far the best music teacher and commandant on the net. Best regards mike mitchell from the paste board mountains in southern Illinois. You the bomb
I loosen strings before cutting, for one simple reason: I really don't want anything flying up and poking me! I don't go overboard, just 10 seconds max per string with the winding crank. It's simply about my own safety, not any meaningless concern for the neck.
Thanks for the water tip ages ago, on cleaning rosewood! I've found that an eyeglass polishing cloth does the job. Wet one corner of the cloth to wipe the board, then use another corner to rub it dry.
I do too. I've been sliced open in the face before when doing that little demo! lol
Hey, Scott!
I listened to your rant on rosewood picking up dirt and I am sick of constantly cleaning it before changing the strings. So I bought some polywebs (again, thanks to you) and I decided I will not put them on before I lacquer my fretboard. I actually used shellac to lacquer it and it turned out nice and shiny. You cant even tell it's not polyurethane. I know shellac is not as durable as poly, but it serves the purpose. I did it on a cheap chinese guitar, but now I will do it on a still cheap, but better schecter guitar I own. Just wanted to let you know. Cheers!
SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET! Keep me posted on how it does over time. I would love to know YOUR thoughts on it and how the Shellac works. SUPERB! Way to think outside the box!
groovydjs Glad you like my idea, Scott. Well, it's been painted two weeks ago and it's holding up great! I didn't play that much though, only a few hours for the whole week. Anyway, it's good, but it takes practice and patience to do a good job (visualy). If you're not worried about the looks, it can be done fairly quickly. I didn't have blonde shellac (not available here in Serbia), so I used a standard orange. It's ok, but the white inlays turn yellowish, which makes the guitar look very vintage. It's ok if that's what you like, but I would rather go with blonde shellac, as I prefer it looking like new. So, I'll be ordering some from USA, and paint my other guitar neck. I don't think there'll be any wear from usage in a long time. So I am satisfied, but it's too early to tell. I'll keep you updated. Cheers!
Great stuff man! You need to do one thing though, get some proper cutters! Using a pair of needle nose from Dad's old tool box makes me cringe. I only own the best tools, the right tool for the job is my motto. I have been a career motor cycle technician for over 20 years. I have played guitar for over 40 years. If you like I would be happy to send you a pair of proper cutters. You have given us so much knowledge that I feel like giving back in the only way I can think of. Your a great teacher and I really appreciate the depth that you go into on each and every video. The stick it to the man attitude only serves to make it even better!
Scott, you're priceless! I learn something new every time I watch your videos and laugh like hell while I do!
Lol !! clipped them bastard strings for the first time in 35 years ! Man it felt good !!! Thankyou Dr Groovy .
Scott, you've helped me so much over the last few weeks with your videos. I'm just getting back into playing after a long hiatus (the only internet back then was those damn dial-up bulletin boards), and the only way to get much of the info you dole out gratis was at the Ivory Tower of Luthiers. Thanks to you my guitar is setup perfectly and (because of a great ebay vid you did) I scored a decent 5w Blackstar for about $100... it was misspelled. Cheers man! Know you're very much appreciated and hope you're feeling well!
its so satisfying to my ears just hearing those string after being cut, total satifying sound ha ha!
Please clarify: (sorry if you already did and I missed it) When you said tighten to the right you turned the wrench left, facing the headstock.
Hi I've learned so much from you. I've played
52 years I never caught on I'm scared of new
Stuff. I can't thank you enough for everything. Thanks no kidding. Jimmy c
Scott with the way that the video title breaks on my screen you scared the crap outta me. It looked like you were recommending changing strings "1 At A Time". I just knew that you had suffered brain damage due to being electrocuted by one of your Johnson amps. Then when I saw you tear through all those suckers it made my day.
There's no real need for me to write this but I just wanted to let you know that I LOVE watching your stuff!
Although I have no need to watch all of these videos 'cause I know most of that stuff (although I did learned a lot from you, Sir, thanks for that!), I still do. I simply enjoy watching those videos and think you are one hell of an awesome nutcase! (in the nicest possible way).
I listen to your videos in the background whilst I work and I just laugh my ass off to the way you explain stuff, love it!
Keep on posting 'cause there are people out there who really love your stuff, me included! :)
So yeah, thanks for sharing your knowledge and enjoy your day, Sir! :)
Scot, man... You are a classic. Laughed my ass off..As they say - it's funny because is true :-D
"Pardon me while I show you my ass" hahahaha made me crack up.
*[2] Love you Scott...you always make me smile and laugh.*
*Blessings from London UK.*
The amount of water used here is negligible, but oil does the same for hydrating the wood and is more permanent than water. The reason why anyone would release tension is they don't want the wires snapping and scratching a finish. Start with the skinny strings, those are most likely to snap with tension if the strings are at that point of being dead. Besides, it's not their guitar, it's another's personal property. I usually agree with Scott, but oil is not going to loosen the frets here. One generally takes care of finer wood furniture, IKEA furniture nobody cares about. The frets have a serrated edges that bite into the wood and are also glued into their fret slots. Moisturizing the wood, water or oil is going to make the wood swell. Body oils & sweat can be filthy, acidic, polluted with whatever they smoke, drink or eat. Natural plant based wood oils are purer. If rosewood or any other wood type can absorb it, the purer the moisturizer, the better. Scott didn't damage this guitar, then again, he told you he was flipping it for profit. So why not refresh the guitar and make it showroom fresh & clean if it's your's, one you intend to own for years. What we saw here was abuse of another's guitar. Your guitar is like a child or pet, someone yanking on parts is the equivalent as having the video of the nanny or pet sitter abusing your child or pet. Pass even a flipped guitar to the next owner in pristine condition.It really bothers me to go to GC and see someone chip the finish mishandling the guitar. I may buy that guitar, I'm buying a new one, it should not be scratched, dented, chipped or whatever. Let me relic it with the mishandle or fumble. Keep that child away from the several hundred dollar instrument.
Rosewood and maple fretboards are a matter of personal preference. I happen to like rosewood. For me, my fingers tend to stick more when playing a maple fretboard with a polyurethane finish and I play smoother with a rosewood fretboard. Must be my body chemistry. I have rosewood fretboards on my Fender Stratocaster, 73 Gibson Les Paul and my Sanchis classical guitar. When changing strings I scrap the fretboard with an old credit card and cotton rag, use a fret eraser and when done I use a light amount of Gerlitz Guitar Honey conditioning and buff with a clean cotton rag. I also will use plain Turtle Wax on the guitar body and the back of the neck. This helps a lot with my classical guitar which has a French polish cedar top. This is what works for me and I am very happy with the results.
Hey Scott I really despise Luthier's so I made sure I watched all your video's about guitar setups. I watched them over and over again until I understood exactly how to do it. I refuse point blank to pay anyone for something you have shown me and everyone else. The trouble I had for a long time was how to actually sight the the neck in order to see if it is bowed or not. I now know what I am doing in that sense. It was all thanks to you my friend. P.S I hope things are a little better for you at home due to your loss. Hope you don't mind me saying. Regards Demon
i love the style ...i will argue one issue ...after 28 years of playing, a rosewood board well oiled feels better to me than a sealed maple board. My fingers don't distill alot of gunk though ...every one is different ....some players will gunk a rosewood board beyond belief.
Cool thanks man. Keep the vids coming. I watch em all!
Thanks dude ...I was going to take my new strat in ...now it plays like butter....killer ...I'm doing all of them now hahaha thanks again!
EXACTLY!
Love it DR groovy
Thanks for all that
Finally, the real mc coy. Good to see!
Shout out to this cat.
Outstanding sir, very well done. As soon as I saw you and you spoke I thought,,,,,"School of rock". lol
Thank for the info Scott! I've heard that lemon oil contains something called d-limonene, which in some cases is actually used to remove paint and glue. You could maybe use another type of oil to condition a very dry ebony board, but certainly don't want to get lemon oil down in the fret slots, or they will definitely fall out over time. Some use mineral oil, or even hemp oil(insert your favorite joke here), but the humidified room is the best option, as you suggested.
Been changing the strings on my Floyd-based Ibanez's for 25 years - the same guitars, still the best playing instruments ever. He's totally spot on here.
Awesome Dr Groovy!
I couldn't agree more about truss rod adjustment. Don't be afraid to do it, there's plenty of good instruction on TH-cam, and save your money for guitars!
Hey Scott, I love your videos and completely agree with you on everything you talk about other than the neck tension thing. I was modding my 97' Pro Tone Strat and took the strings off and left them off. About a week later I started working on it again and there was a surface crack from the neck pocket to the trem cavity, and some poly chipped off. Doesn't really matter to me but I guess it can screw shit up when they're off for a long period of time...
You told me not to be afraid,but after 10 years of being afraid,I'm still afraid.
Thank you soo much for this video sir. I'm glad you cleared the air about all the cleaning products and bs out there. Much appreciated.
Thank you sir for your tips! Nice and simple, just as I like it!
I've been playing the guitar as 2nd instrument for a few years now and have always been scared shit of breaking the thing if I play around with trust-rod because on most channels we are told not to touch this and bring them the money! Thanks for sharing the knowledge. I sure wont be paying anyone ever again.