High Action on my Tenor

Is it normal to have particularly high action on a tenor?

I’ve got a Kala solid lacewood tenor.

When I practice, I’ll switch off between my concert, soprano, and tenor. Not just because I like the sounds each one makes, but also because I don’t want to get too used to playing a certain type of instrument.

I just notice that when I go to the tenor, I’m having to lift my fingers way higher to hit the higher frets (5th onward).

I think I’ve read where some people shave the saddle to lower the action, but I don’t think I trust myself to do something like that lest I ruin the intonation or whatever else.

I can provide some photos if that’s helpful.

See this thread, there are others - search for action, adjustment. You may wanna also get an extra saddle and use it rather than the OE one (easier to return to original).

Kanaka916 said:

See this thread, there are others - search for action, adjustment. You may wanna also get an extra saddle and use it rather than the OE one (easier to return to original).

Click to expand...

I think that's a great idea, plus you could try out other materials for the saddle...say, corian or Tusq. That way if you mess up the saddle, you're only out a couple of bucks and a little time!

Thank you for the link, Kanaka ... I think I’ve underestimated the importance of the saddle. Anyone have a recommendation on where I can buy quality saddles online?

Try Stewart-MacDonald.