Bottomed out action?

[Tristan]

I just bought an older Godin BG-IV (with EMGs and Schaller roller bridge)...

I've got the neck where I think it should be in terms of relief...

The thing is i set the bridge saddles as low as they can go... The action is totally usable, but I still have no buzzing. I'm thinking it could be lower.

I'd like to get lower action as I think it would work... Is the only available option now a neck shim? Should I be looking at anything else??

Thanks!
Tristan

[ehque]

To my knowledge, yes, a neck shim is the only option to lower action when the saddles are bottomed out.

But first, what's your relief like?

[Tristan]

I adjusted it to just a bit more relief than flat... just a hair of space at 9th fret when holding down 1st and 15th.

If I give it more bow it will buzz in the lowest strings...

Do you think it should be straighter?

Thanks for the reply!
Tristan

[EADG mx]

If you think it can go lower, tighten the truss rod until it starts to buzz

then loosen it a little bit until the buzz stops and you're as low as you can go

[ehque]

A straighter neck will allow you to set your action higher. If you bottom out with a bit of relief, try reducing the relief. I'd go with EADG's advice, if you seriously don't want a shim in your bass.