how do fix the intonation on my guitar?

Question

When I got my strat i knew the intonation was to sharp. I adjusted the saddles and i got the first three strings (G,B,E) in perfect intonation. The last three strings(E,A,D) on the other hand stayed high. Even after moving the saddle all the way back. :-( what else should i try?

Answer 1

I depends on what style bridge you have in the rear. If it is a tremolo, you can tighten the springs on the backside of the guitar to bring it further back on the pivots. If it is a fixed bridge, you should be able to pull it back enough to get the intonation to change enough to stay in tune. Check your neck to see if it's not warped a little since this will make it hard to get your intonation correct. You might also try using a little heavier gauge string. If you are using something very light, it may not be possible to get you EAD to be perfect without moving the entire bridge back.

Answer 2

MY fvery first Fender Strat USA...had intonation problems and it was brand new from the music store.
I took it too a professional and they jammed it right up.
I would not really tamper with the truss bar tightening and so on. It's better to let the pros tackle it because you have money invested in your guitar especially Fenders and it should get professional care.
Fenders are bad about intonation problems, but when I purchased my Gibson Les Paul....those problems were history.
I have not done anything , but put new strings on my Gibson and she rips wide open in sound. I love it.
I hardly have to turn my tuning keys, but I always loosen the strings before putting her back in the case.
I named my Guitar Sheba for the grace of Egyptian sound I call it.

Then every time I want to play, I take her out of the case and tune it right back up and this saves your tension on your strings.
Some artist musicians I know do the same thing. Never pack a guitar in a case tuned up...it's a bad spell.

Answer 3

Check how the strings make contact with the nut.
That might be the problem with the thicker strings.

Answer 4

Have you tried adjusting the neck at all?

that would be my first guess...is it warped or twisted at all?