AboutRoss Expertise Over 15 years of guitar playing, teaching, building, and modifying; have worked as a touring musician, studio session guitarist, engineer, guitar tech, and guitar teacher. Registered member of ASCAP. Registered member of Freelancers Union. I have a working knowledge of music theory and styles, and a taste for all types of music and instruments. If you have a favorite guitar player or style, chances are I share it! If you have a question I can't answer, I'll rely on experienced and knowledgeable people I know to get the correct information for you, and I hope I can help inspire your playing style and tone. Promo photography by Sebastian Castillo at Castillo Photography, San Diego, CA.
Experience I hope that by answering questions thoroughly and giving insightful answers, I can have a positive impact on someone's playing style and tone - help them get their perfect sound.
Expert: Ross Date: 6/14/2008 Subject: Yet another question.
Question Hi again Ross. Sorry to keep bothering you, but I happen to be relatively uneducated, although I've been playing for over a year.
Alright, so here's the thing. I've got a question relating to my acoustic guitar. There were no experts in the acoustic guitar section, and I figured, with your experience, I'm sure you've gotten this question before, or, even experienced it.
So, here's the question. I'm using D'Addarios. Light gauge, .012-.053, Phosphor Bronze. They seem to work well with my guitar, however, and it's always been this way, it's always been pretty hard to work with, even though I have calloused fingertips. I have a friend who also plays acoustic, but uses Ernie Balls Pink Super Slinky strings for an electric guitar on his. Now, I looked into this, and found that if the truss rod is adjusted for heavier strings, then it could bend backwards. I don't like the sound of that...I have no idea where my truss rod is located on my guitar, as there's no openings to it that I can see, or anything. I have an Ibanez Performance series guitar, not exactly sure which model, once again, can't find anything on it. So, my question is, is it possible for me to use Ernie Balls Pink Super Slinky strings on my Acoustic guitar?
Answer Justin: Not a problem, man, that's what I'm here for! Now, your truss rod should be accessible from underneath the soundhole, just at the base of the neck (a small flashlight will help to find it). Typically, if you don't see an access at the headstock, this is where to look. Now, even after adjusting the rod, you may still find that the guitar is difficult to play - time for some setup adjustment. This might involve some lowering of the nut/bridge (don't freak - it's not super-hard!). Try adjusting your rod, first and then we'll go from there.
'Til then, Happy Shredding!
Ross
