How do you measure scale length on a guitar?
A guitar’s scale length is calculated by measuring the distance from the front edge of the nut, where it butts against the end of the fingerboard, to the center of the 12th (octave) fret, then doubling that measurement.
What is the scale length of a 4 4 guitar?
The sizes of the so-called 4/4 guitars depend on their manufacturer, but most models are around 40 inches long. The exception are headless guitars, as these electric guitars have a built-in tuner rather than a headstock that holds tuning pegs.
How does scale length affect guitar?
Strings on longer-scale guitars will feel tighter and firmer than those fitted to one with a short scale. This affects playability. Because the strings on a shorter-scale are under less tension, they are easier to bend and fret. Scale length is just so fundamental to the tone and playability of a guitar.
What is the normal scale length for a guitar?
In the simplest terms, scale length refers to the length of the active/vibrating portion of the open string, between the nut and saddle. Among acoustic guitars, the most common scales are clustered around 25.4–25.5 inches and 24.75 inches.
Why use a short scale guitar?
Scale length can have a significant effect on playability. All factors being equal (string gauge, string length beyond the nut and saddle, break angles, and so on), shorter scales produce lower string tension, are more elastic, easier to fret, and require less arm extension.
Are short scale guitars worth it?
It’s not really an opinion that shorter scale guitars (all other factors being equal) have less string tension. They do, not only that, there is a shorter distance between the frets. So yes, easier to play.
Are short scale guitars bad?
In a nutshell, the shorter the scale length, the closer the frets are together. This is a good thing if you have small hands or are a young beginner. A guitar with a shorter scale length (like the Gibson Les Paul) requires less tension to reach concert pitch than a guitar with a longer scale (like the Fender Strat).
Should I start with a short scale guitar?
If you have smaller hands, a shorter scale length will make the guitar easier to play. This is why “student” Guitars have shorter scale lengths (20”, 22”, 24” or so). If you have large hands or bigger fingers, a longer scale length may be more comfortable.
Are stratocasters good for small hands?
The Vintage Modified Stratocaster is the perfect choice for those that have smaller hands as its smaller than a regular Telecaster. There’s a tone, volume, and a selector switch for the pickups. There’s a 9.5 fretboard radius and 21 jumbo frets so its very comfortable to play and the entire neck is maple.
What is considered a short scale guitar?
When people talk about a short scale, it’s typically 24 3/4 inches, while long scale is over 25 inches. A greater scale length means more tension in the strings, since they have to span a greater distance. Since short-scale guitars have less string tension, they have a little more wiggle room and punch.
What electric guitar is good for small hands?
The 6 Best Electric Guitars For Small Hands
- Squier Classic Vibe 50’s Stratocaster.
- Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS.
- Ibanez GRGM21BKN 3/4 Size Mikro.
- Gibson SG Special.
- Fender Classic Player Jaguar Special.
- Squier by Fender Mini Strat.
What kind of guitar is good for small hands?
If you have small hands and you want to play bass guitar, then you should start looking at Fender or Ibanez guitars, especially the GSP series which feature a skinnier guitar neck / neck shape.