Low E-string sounds out of tune

Question

I have an issue with the low E string on my Acoustic Seagull S6 Original. Ever since I changed the strings, the E string seems to be out of tune in a weird way. When the open E is right on the spot (using a digital tuner) all the other notes on the fret board are slightly higher in pitch (like a quarter tone). The peculiar thing is that it's only on the low E string.

Worth mentioning I went from .10 to .11 gauge.

I checked the nut and the heads and there is no visible damage or anything like that.

Any thoughts?

Check to be sure the string is seated firmly in the nut slot. — Rockin Cowboy, Mar 25 '20 at 00:25
My first move would be to replace the new bottom string with one the same gauge as the original. It is the fat E, isn't it? (there's sometimes confusion between high and low - note or position). Fat or thin solves that! — Tim, Mar 25 '20 at 08:18
a 1/4 tone is a lot. But this is not uncommon. You may need to adjust the rest of the guitar, truss rod, bridge, etc to accomodate the new gauge. — , Mar 25 '20 at 12:05

score 0 · Answer 1 · answered Mar 24 '20 at 23:48

Sharing my experience that was almost identical. I changed to slightly heavier strings, and I had fret buzz on the Low E only at the 9th and 10th fret. I tried replacing to the lighter strings but still same problem. I ended up adjusting my truss rod under the guidance of my guitar teacher. Somehow I had managed to change the action slightly. Perhaps that is something to consider if nothing else has helped.

good luck ~catz

Low E-string sounds out of tune

1 Answers1