Bass Action Height Chart
Quick answer
Start at 2.4 mm on the E and 2.0 mm on the G at the 17th fret (Fender, 9.5"-12" neck). Vintage 7.25" necks: 2.8 mm and 2.4 mm. Set relief first, then raise or lower the saddles a quarter turn at a time.
"Action" is the gap between the top of a fret and the bottom of the string. Too high and the bass is hard to play and goes sharp when you press; too low and it buzzes. Use the chart for a starting point, then adjust by ear for how hard you play.
Bass action height chart
| Neck radius | E (lowest) string | G (highest) string | Measured at |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.5" to 12" (most modern basses) | 2.4 mm (6/64") | 2.0 mm (5/64") | 17th fret |
| 7.25" (vintage-style) | 2.8 mm (7/64") | 2.4 mm (6/64") | 17th fret |
| Typical maker spec at the 12th fret (e.g. PRS SE) | 2.0-2.5 mm | 1.5-2.0 mm | 12th fret |
Fender measures at the 17th fret, many other makers at the 12th. Check which fret your spec uses: the same bass reads a little lower at fret 12.
| Style | E string at 12th fret | Feel |
|---|---|---|
| Low (light touch, some buzz unplugged is OK) | about 1.8-2.0 mm | Fast, easiest for beginners with a light touch |
| Medium (most players) | about 2.2-2.5 mm | Clean through the amp, comfortable |
| High (heavy attack, slap, flatwounds) | about 2.8-3.2 mm | Punchy, no buzz, more effort |
How to measure
- Tune to pitch and hold the bass in playing position.
- Check relief first (about 0.3 mm / 0.012" at the 8th fret). If it is way off, fix it with the truss rod before touching action.
- Put a steel rule on top of the 17th (or 12th) fret and read the gap to the bottom of the E and G strings. Set the A and D in between, following the curve of the neck.
How to lower or raise it
- Each bridge saddle has two small height screws. Turn both on a saddle the same amount (a quarter turn at a time), retune, and re-measure.
- Lower until it buzzes through the amp, then raise slightly.
- Recheck intonation after big changes.
Buzzing in one area only? Run the bass fret buzz finder.
MusicNomad action ruler
Reads action in mm and inches, sized for the job.
Best for: Anyone doing their own setup
Bondhus hex key set
Fits most saddle screws and truss rods.
Best for: Basses with hex screws
FAQ
What is a good action height for bass?
About 2.4 mm on the E and 2.0 mm on the G at the 17th fret (Fender's spec for modern necks) is a solid start.
Is 3 mm action too high on a bass?
For most players at the 12th fret, yes, it feels stiff. Heavy players and flatwound users sometimes like it.
Where do you measure bass action?
Top of the fret to the bottom of the string, usually at the 12th or 17th fret. Check your maker's spec.
Should I adjust the truss rod or saddles first?
Set relief with the truss rod first, then set action at the saddles.
Why does my bass buzz after lowering the action?
It is now too low for your touch or your relief is too flat. Raise the saddles a little.
Sources checked
- Fender: how to set up a bass guitar (checked Oct 23, 2026): support.fender.com/hc/en-us/articles/42584762257819-How-do-I-set-up-my
- Fender: factory setup specs (checked Oct 23, 2026): support.fender.com/hc/en-us/articles/42507226762651-What-are-factory-s
FretCompare explains standard technique and setup practice in its own words. Specs are starting points; adjust to feel.
How this page was made
An editorial guide by Andrew from standard technique, manufacturer setup specs and the sources listed above. Not hands-on product testing. How we rate.