How is guitar neck radius measured

Though it may be different for each player, there are a few elements to consider that promote one type of feel over another. Fretboard radius is one of the elements that contributes quite significantly to the overall playabilty of a guitar. In this article we take a look at what exactly fretboard radius is and why it really matters.

How Is Fretboard Radius Measured? Anyone who has ever taken a look at guitar specs has surely seen a measurement for fretbaord radius. Common radiuses radii include: 7. Though the measurements are commonly found on just about every guitar spec sheet, it is rarely explained what these measurements actually mean. The best way to understand fretboard radius is to look at where the measurements are derived from. An illustration may be the best way to explain this without subjecting you to a math lecture :.

Imagine three circles with radii of 7. Now if we were to cut out a section from the sides of each of the circles the width of a fretboard imagine how the sections would differ from one another. All three would have a subtle curvature to them, however the section that came from the 7. Basically as the radius grows larger, the section gets progressively flatter. Here is a good illustration of exactly what we are talking about: Here is a close up shot of the top part of the image above: What Is the Purpose of Fretboard Radius?

How can i measure fretboard radius? Thread starter s. Messages Can't remember the radius on my tele's neck Easy way to determine this?

Trebor Renkluaf I was hit by a parked car, what's your excuse? Gold Supporting Member. Messages 14, Radius gauges. Messages 15, Draw a circle. Your guitar's fingerboard is a section of the perimiter of the circle. The smaller the circle, the more curved the section will be. If you draw a 7. Common radii are 7. The contour is the basic shape of the back of the neck, such as a C, U, Soft V, etc.

You will need a special gauge to determine the guitar neck radius — the curve of the fingerboard. Luckily, you can download, print and cut out a free neck radius gauge , supplied by our friend Tony at Pickguardian. The gauge has four numbered sides. Place it on your fingerboard and find out which side matches your fingerboard exactly. A good tip for distinguishing between different fretboard radiuses: the greater the number, the flatter the fingerboard; vice versa, the smaller the number, the more rounded the fingerboard.

See the image below. Typically measured in inches, the most popular fretboard radius used today is 9. Of course, your handspan and own natural dexterity are worth considering — though the latter can be improved by practicing. A smaller radius and, therefore, more rounded fingerboard, tends to better suit the natural curve of your fingers. The best example is the 7. This kind of specification is great for playing in lower neck positions, standard shapes, as well as a great range of barre chords.

One of the reasons why this size was so popular in the period between the s and 80s was because it suited rhythm guitar, which was the predominant force in music before musicians started to refine more intricate styles.