Bending problem

[tauromastr33]

I took my guitar to put on some new strings... from 9s to 10s´and the usual adjustments, i also asked the guy to lower the action a little.

Well, now it sounds amazing, but bending is impossible...
when i bend the string, my finger touches the upper string, making it bend a little too and then this upper string slips under my finger making a "click" against the fret...

it´s kinda hard to explain, but it´s really annoying.

Any suggestions?

 

[D-EJ915]

Re: Bending problem

Your action is too low for you causing you to loose 'grip' and 'control' of the string.

 

[SpiderVenom]

Re: Bending problem

You needn't raise your action. It's just a matter of practice. After a while, you should be able to get the hang of it. Just keep trying.

Now and then, a (physically) higher string might slip under my fingers when bending, but as long as you're muting those strings properly with your right hand (resting part of your hand on them so that they don't ring out or buzz if you "crash" into them), your pickups are unlikely to actually pick it up, even if it makes an acoustic noise.

 

[tauromastr33]

Re: Bending problem

Thank you.

I´ll see if i can get used to it...

The upper string remains on the tip of my finger till half of the bend...but then it suddenly "bang!" slips under, so it´s hard to keep the vibrato and stuff.

 

[Lewguitar]

Re: Bending problem

How long have you been playing guitar? If you're kind of a beginner than it might be just a matter of developing the strength and technique. But if you've been playing for a few years it sounds to me like your guitar has low frets and that the action is to low.

Frets that are to low make it hard to get the meat of your finger around the string so you can hang onto it. Your finger hits the fingerboard wood and can't get wrapped around the string.

Also, experiment with using as many fingers to bend a string as you're comfortable with...you'll have a lot more strength and a better tone that way.

Personally, I think you may have to raise your action just a touch...

 

[tauromastr33]

Re: Bending problem

I know it´s a beginners question, but i´ve been playing for 9 years... it´s the first time it happens.

I usually use lots of bends and vibratos, but when the upper string hits my finger after the tension... ruins the whole thing


Just another thing: The string i want to bend is ok, the one that slips from the tip of my finger to under my finger is the other one.

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: Bending problem

Practice. Failing that, do what Lew said.

 

[Bludave]

Re: Bending problem

Sounds to me like itrs set up perfect to do some Albert King Bends. as Lew said practice with it a little and see. If it still gives you some isseues after a week or so.... bring it back and voice your complaint to the Tech. They should take care of it for you!

 

[drew_half_empty]

Re: Bending problem

tune down a half step

 

[DesertRose]

Re: Bending problem

tune down a half step

thats the best way, the string has lesser tension. But if you're playing songs with the actual step then it might post a problem.

I use my guitar with 1/2 step down, another with the original step. So I swap between guitars.

Otherwise take it for setting up and intonation

 

[MikeS]

Re: Bending problem

Not to intentionally go against the advice of others, but if you’ve been playing for 9 years then I’d bet you’ve been playing long enough to have many habits engrained into your playing, as well as getting used to the higher action that you used to play. If the low action is entirely uncomfortable then I’d raise it.

Contrary to popular belief, lower action is not always a good thing. Find whatever works best for you and take very detailed measurements of the setup (or have a tech do it for you. Bottom line is, you want to have some numbers that can get you back to the setup that works best for you).

 

[Zerberus]

Re: Bending problem

....
Any suggestions?

Raise the action or adjust your technique.