newbie question

[Bass_Guitar_rocks]

WTF is action?
i hear that Ibanez soundgear has a really low action and i have a Sr300dx but i dont know what action is?
please help

[ebe9]

Action is the hight of the strings above the fingerboard is simple terms.

[Bass_Guitar_rocks]

i had a feeling it was but just wanted to make sure, cheers

[Rowan S]

high action is sometimes harder to play then low action, but it has a better tone. low action you can get fret buzz but its easier to play.

[ebe9]

high action is sometimes harder to play then low action, but it has a better tone. low action you can get fret buzz but its easier to play.


Having a higher action does not neccessarily equal a better tone.

It will also put the strings further away from the pickups, meaning a lower output and thus volume from the pups.


Action is basically a matter of preference and setup of the bass. Some people will also incorporate the action they use into their technique.

E.g. Some pick players will use a higher action, while some fingerstyle players will prefer a lower action because their attack is not as vigorous as a pick player.