Guitars aren’t the only instruments that need a setup. Mandolins, banjos, ukuleles, and other stringed instruments get the same problems: high action, buzzing, and notes that won’t play in tune. At TuneUp Guitar in Redding we set up most fretted stringed instruments with the same quick, practical approach we use on guitars.
Instruments we set up
- Mandolins, including A-style and F-style
- Banjos, 4-string and 5-string
- Ukuleles, soprano through baritone
- Dobros and resonator guitars
- Acoustic bass guitars
- Bouzoukis, mandolas, and similar instruments
Not sure if we work on yours? Call or text a photo and we’ll let you know.
What a setup covers
Every instrument is a little different, but most setups include:
- New strings, installed and stretched
- Neck relief adjusted where there’s a truss rod
- Nut slots checked and lowered if open notes are hard to play
- Action adjustment at the bridge or saddle
- Floating bridges placed and intonation set
- Tuners and hardware tightened
- Fretboard cleaned and conditioned
Banjo-specific work
Banjos need a few extra steps. We check head tension, tailpiece adjustment, and the bridge for a clean, even tone. A loose head is one of the most common reasons a banjo sounds dull or buzzes.
Mandolin-specific work
Mandolins have floating bridges that can lean or slide out of place, and tight nut slots that make the first few frets hard to play. We set the bridge where it belongs, adjust the height, and make sure the double courses ring clean together.
Ukuleles
Lots of ukuleles ship with action that’s way too high. Lowering the saddle and nut makes them easier to play and helps them sound in tune all the way up. It’s one of the most affordable improvements you can make for a beginner.
Common problems we fix
- Notes that buzz or choke out
- Instruments that won’t stay in tune
- Worn or loose tuners
- Strings sitting too high to play comfortably
Bring it in
Bring your instrument by the shop on Redcliff Drive in Redding. Players come in from all over the Redding area. For guitars, see our guitar setup page.
Mandolin, Banjo & Ukulele Setup questions
Do you work on instruments other than guitar?
Yes. Mandolins, banjos, ukuleles, dobros, acoustic basses, and most fretted stringed instruments get the same practical setup work as guitars.
My mandolin's bridge moved. Can you fix that?
Yes. Mandolin and archtop bridges float and can shift during string changes. We put it back in the right spot and set intonation so it plays in tune.
Can you set up a ukulele for a beginner?
Absolutely. Many inexpensive ukes have high nut slots and action that make them hard to play. Lowering them makes a big difference for new players.