How to Adjust Acoustic Guitar Intonation

Adjusting the intonation of an acoustic guitar is an essential task that helps to ensure that the guitar plays in tune across the entire fretboard. Here are the steps to adjust the intonation of an acoustic guitar:

1. Tune the guitar: Start by tuning the guitar to pitch using an electronic tuner.

2. Check the intonation: Once the guitar is in tune, play a note on the 12th fret and check if it's in tune. You can use a tuner to check if the note is in tune.

3. Adjust the saddle position: If the note is sharp (i.e., the pitch is too high), the saddle needs to be moved back towards the bridge. If the note is flat (i.e., the pitch is too low), the saddle needs to be moved forward towards the neck.

4. Measure the distance: Measure the distance between the nut and the 12th fret with a ruler. Then measure the distance between the 12th fret and the saddle.

5. Calculate the position: Divide the distance between the nut and the 12th fret in half. This is the ideal distance between the nut and the saddle. If the distance between the 12th fret and the saddle is more than this distance, move the saddle back towards the bridge. If the distance is less than this distance, move the saddle forward towards the neck.

6. Repeat the process: After making an adjustment, tune the guitar and check the intonation again. Repeat this process until the notes played on the 12th fret are in tune.

7. Check other strings: Repeat steps 2-6 for each string on the guitar.

Note: It's essential to make small adjustments to the saddle to avoid overcompensating and causing the intonation to be even further out of tune. Also, if you're not comfortable adjusting the intonation yourself, it's best to take your guitar to a professional luthier.