By :
Victor EpandCategoryMusicPopularity
Date Published :
2008-10-15 11:58:28
Number Times Read :
3
The neck of a guitar - the long part along which the strings are run, and which includes the frets, can vary in length depending on not only the shape that the manufacturer wishes to create, but more importantly, the tone or sound that the strings will make. Naturally the longer the strings the deeper or lower the note, which is why banjos have such a high pitch - with a neck very much smaller than that of guitars or guitar like instruments, such as the sitar for example.
Two of the most well known makes of electric guitar are Fender and Gibson, both of which have necks of different lengths. The Gibson is slightly shorter, at 24.75 inches, with the Fender only marginally longer at 25.5 inches. Obviously it is necessary for both guitars to be able to play the same notes, and be tuned to the same scale, and of course be easy for guitarists to hold down the strings against the correct frets. For this reason, if the neck of a guitar is slightly shorter, the frets will be packed more tightly together. Conversely, the longer the neck, the more spaced out the frets.
Naturally, when you consider the overall difference in length of the necks of guitars being only in the region of one to two inches, the difference is marginal. However, it is well worth bearing this fact in mind when choosing a guitar, as for a beginner the frets being placed very closely together can cause a little fumbling of the fingers to begin with. On the other hand, some people argue that having the frets further apart can lead to extra straining of unfamiliar tendons and missed notes or slow chord changes. To be honest, the best thing is to try a guitar for yourself.
Practising with a guitar and trying out a variety before you buy is essential, but one of the aspects often forgotten or ignored is the length of the neck, and the necessary spacing of the frets. It would be well worth trying a variety of neck lengths to see which suits you best. If you find your fingers bunching up too much, perhaps a longer neck may help. If, on the other hand, you're finding you're struggling to stretch your fingers across the frets, perhaps a slightly shorter and more tightly packed one?
The difference is clearly very little, but sometimes it can be the minor differences, such as the length of a guitar's neck and the spacing between the frets that makes a big difference to the ease of use, the confidence and ultimate skill of the player, and to the music it is used to create.
Whilst looking at necks, it would also be wise to consider the other differences which can be found, such as whether they are bolted on, set or the kind which are described as neck-through. The necks that are set are glued on to the body, and if you are after fabulous sustain, this is the type to consider. Bolt on necks provide great ease of adjustment, which can help to make a guitar feel more comfortable and sound just right.
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