F512 set-up

[redta]

I've had mine now for about 12 years. It's a beauty - 2007 Tacoma F512R. Bought it from Guitar center used. Played great from the very first day. I'm
wondering if it's time for a prof. set-up and if I should expect it to play even better. But who should I trust with the job and what kind of money to pay.
I drop tune a full step and always have to adjust the E & A strings using a capo. I play it a lot and am picky who I let handle my guitars. Any and all advice is welcome and Thanks in advance.

 

[Nuuska]

Hello

If you have to readjust E & A every time you use capo - or take it off - then it sounds your nut slots are too high.

 

[chazmo]

Hmm... I think you always have to adjust with a capo, Nuuska. If you're picky about tuning that is. I've never capo'd a 12-string that doesn't need some adjustment after after applying the capo

red, personally I don't think there's any need for a setup if it plays comfortably up and down the neck and it's not buzzing. My 2006 F-512 was absolutely perfect (for me) right out of the box. My favorite guitar in all ways, all time!

 

[geoguy]

Maybe someone from your area can suggest a repair person, if you want to have the setup checked by someone competent.

Or you can check the nut-slot height yourself:

nut action height - frets.com

 

[Nuuska]

Chazmo - I think that generally you are right about capo - but if the action is about perfectly set at nut and the capo is one with right material - there is a not-so-remote chance that no retuning is necessary. Many capos are too hard and they are too tight - then there is no way around tuning.

But I understood that redta had some serious detuning problem w capo. . . we might need more precise description of the problem

 

[redta]

I would not say I have a serios problem with the capo. E & A strings are usually about one half step up after the capo. The use of the capo
really increases the vocal range for the groups and my songs. Really appreciate the input guys.

 

[Cougar]

I'm wondering if it's time for a prof. set-up and if I should expect it to play even better. But who should I trust with the job and what kind of money to pay.

I should think a setup would be around $60, with another $20 to put new strings on her. But if she still plays easy with nice low action, I wouldn't mess with it.

 

[GuildFS4612CE]

You haven't shown us how you place your capo...they should be as close to the fret as possible if not right on the fret...most people set them too far from the fret...even in the center...that only increases the string stretch and the result is 'sharp'...also important is the capo radius matching the fretboard radius...not all capos are created equal...nor is fretboard radius...and you need a capo designed specifically for 12 string.

 

[redta]

Good point about the fingerboard radius and which capo used. I have a couple. The 12 string kyser and thalia with changeable inserts.
Do you or anyone have another capo that they like for 12 string?

 

[Cougar]

Do you or anyone have another capo that they like for 12 string?

I got a G7th Newport compensated 12-string capo. It addresses the problem of getting the octave strings capo'd without cranking the tension excessively. Frankly, it's not always perfect, but it's better than a standard, uncompensated capo.