There seems to be some discussion on various threads about how to string your guitars correctly. I thought I would start a thread of how I string my Jaguar. - (a combination of Strat experience and trial-and-error!)
If this is done correctly, the angle of the string will be correct going into the nut and can also reduce 'buzz' issues.
This is NOT a definitive method, just one I find that works... (I am not a tech, or a pro musician but have used this method from experience with Strats and have used on my Jag for the last 6 years.)
Read through it first, so that you understand it, as you may end up wasting some strings.
Some things to point out first...
1.) This is for changing a whole set,
2.) I assume you have Slot-Head tuners,
3.) You will need:
A set of strings,
A String Winder,
Long-Nosed Pliers,
Sharp Wire-Cutters (or a combo-tool with both),
Electronic Tuner,
Ruler,
A Nail Manicure Stick (with rubber tip) - For cleaning the neck, trust me on this! - If in the UK, Boots sell them
2-3 CDs of your choice - If cleaning & reseting action, it could take some time!
DO NOT remove the old string set at once. - This will release a lot on tension on the neck, which we are then reapplying. If this is done too often, it can cause serious damage to the neck.
If you are severely changing the gauge, seek advice from a Pro Guitar Tech about truss-rod adjustment.
Glossary -
Bend and cut - This means bend the string with the pliers to a sharp right-angle and then cut the string, 1cm-1/2" after the bend.
Before putting the string in the tuner, move the tuner so that the feed slot if horizontal to the nut.
Load each string by feeding through the right-hand slot and poking the bended end as far through the hole, so that the bend is flush to the slot - turn with winder anti-clockwise, while holding the string in place with your right thumb. Make sure the string is winding down from the top of the post down, with no overlap to, give a nice spring effect. - Tune to concert pitch. - At this point you may want to set the action.
For each string in turn. - Remove the old string. Use the Nail stick to remove any grime from the frets with the pointy bit, then gently use the rubber tip on the main fret area.
Pull the new string through.
Measurements are for a taut string level, with it's corresponding tuner (eg for low E - pull to E tuner and measure 50mm, A string pull to A tuner and measure 60mm etc.)
From the low E down.
Low E - This needs 2-3 turns - Measure from the tuner 50mm/2" or pull up to level with the D tuner - Bend and cut, load as per above.
A - 2-3 turns, measure from A tuner 60mm - 2.1/4" - Bend and cut.
D - 4 turns, now this will vary with gauge - I personally cut the string a few inches from above the headstock. This will be more than ample & you will be able to trim the length down by trial-error. The important thing is not to wind on too tightly, if you can see the string will need re-cutting.
G - The complete pain in the butt. - This needs to wound down to almost the bottom of the post. (about 7 turns) - Like the D string, I am not prepared to give any definite measurement on this! - Good luck!
B & E - These are nice and easy, as Fender as genuiously given us a string-tree for these. 2-3 turns each or a few more is you wish.
As I said this is NOT the definitive way of stringing a Jaguar, just one I am happy with - any comments suggestions welcome!
