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9.5 inch Fingerboard Radius
The 9.5-inch fingerboard radius is a common specification for many electric guitars, particularly those made by Fender. This measurement indicates the curvature of the fretboard across its width, providing a slightly rounded surface that is comfortable for both chording and soloing. The 9.5-inch radius strikes a balance between the vintage 7.25-inch radius, which offers a more pronounced curve, and flatter radii like the 12-inch, which are preferred for lead guitar techniques such as string bending and fast legato runs.
Comfort and Playability
Guitars with a 9.5-inch radius are known for their comfortable playability, accommodating the natural curvature of the fingers when forming chords. This radius is versatile enough to allow for easy chord formation without compromising the ability to perform string bends and vibrato higher up the neck.
Popular Among Various Guitar Models
Many of Fender’s guitar models feature a 9.5-inch radius, including the American Professional II Series, American Performer, and Player Series. This radius has become a standard for those seeking a modern feel with a nod to traditional playability.
Considerations for Action and Setup
A 9.5-inch radius fretboard may require a slightly higher action to prevent fret buzz during aggressive string bending, especially when compared to flatter radii.
12 inch Fingerboard Radius
The 12-inch fingerboard radius is a popular choice among electric guitar manufacturers, offering a flatter surface compared to the more curved 9.5-inch radius. This design is particularly favored for its playability and comfort, especially for lead guitarists who employ techniques such as string bending, fast legato runs, and intricate soloing. The flatter radius allows for a lower action without fret buzz, making it ideal for fast lead playing.
Comfort and Playability
Guitars with a 12-inch radius provide a comfortable playing experience, especially for lead guitar techniques. The flatter surface facilitates easier string bending and faster finger movements across the fretboard. This radius is a common feature in many Gibson models, such as the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335, as well as certain Fender models like the Player Plus and Eric Johnson Stratocaster.
Popular Among Various Guitar Models
Aside from Gibson and Fender, other brands also offer models with a 12-inch fingerboard radius, catering to players who prefer a flatter fretboard for their playing style. This radius is often associated with guitars designed for rock, metal, and other genres that require precise lead playing and effortless string bending.
Considerations for Action and Setup
A 12-inch radius fretboard typically allows for a lower action, which can be advantageous for lead playing but may require adjustments to prevent fret buzz during aggressive playing techniques.
9.5 inch vs 12 inch Fingerboard Radius
When selecting a guitar, one of the critical aspects that can significantly influence playability and comfort is the fingerboard radius. The fingerboard radius refers to the curvature of the fretboard across its width. This curvature can vary, with common measurements including 9.5 inches and 12 inches. Understanding the differences between these two can help players choose a guitar that best suits their playing style and comfort preferences.
What is the difference between a 9.5 and a 12-inch fingerboard radius?
A 9.5-inch fingerboard radius offers a more pronounced curvature, providing a “rounded” feel that many find comfortable for chording. This radius is somewhat of a middle ground, offering a balance between ease of chording and soloing. On the other hand, a 12-inch radius is flatter, which tends to facilitate bending notes, vibrato, and tapping with greater ease. The choice between these radii often boils down to personal preference and the specific demands of a player’s style.
Which fingerboard radius is better for playing chords?
For playing chords, especially open chords and barre chords in the lower fret positions, a 9.5-inch radius is generally considered more comfortable due to its more curved nature. This curvature closely matches the natural curvature of the fingertips, making it easier to fret multiple strings simultaneously.
Is a 12-inch fingerboard radius better for lead guitarists?
Many lead guitarists prefer a 12-inch fingerboard radius because its flatter surface is more conducive to lead playing techniques such as string bending, fast legato runs, and intricate soloing. The flatter radius allows for a lower action without fret buzz, particularly beneficial for fast lead playing.
Does fingerboard radius affect guitar action?
Yes, the fingerboard radius can influence the guitar’s action. A flatter radius, like 12 inches, can generally accommodate a lower action without experiencing fret buzz, especially when performing string bends. Conversely, guitars with a more curved radius, like 9.5 inches, may require slightly higher action to prevent buzz during aggressive bending.
What are some examples of guitars with a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius?
Guitars with a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius include various models from Fender, such as the American Professional II Series, American Performer, American Original ’50s and ’60s Series, Player Series, and Vintera Modified Series, as well as Squier guitars.
What are some examples of guitars with a 12-inch fingerboard radius?
Guitars with a 12-inch fingerboard radius include models from Gibson, such as the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335, as well as the Fender Player Plus and Eric Johnson Stratocaster.
Can fingerboard radius affect the tone of the guitar?
The fingerboard radius itself has minimal, if any, direct effect on the tone of the guitar. The tone is more significantly influenced by other factors such as the guitar’s body wood, construction, and pickups.
What is a compound radius fingerboard, and how does it compare?
A compound radius fingerboard gradually flattens from the nut to the higher frets, combining the comfort of a smaller radius for chording near the nut with the ease of a larger radius for bending and soloing higher up the neck. This design can offer the best of both worlds but may make the guitar more expensive.
How can I decide which fingerboard radius is right for me?
The best way to decide which fingerboard radius is right for you is through hands-on experience. Playing as many different guitars as possible will allow you to feel the difference and determine which radius suits your playing style and comfort preferences best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 9.5 and a 12-inch fingerboard radius?
A 9.5-inch fingerboard radius refers to the curvature of the fretboard, which is more pronounced and offers a more “rounded” feel, making it comfortable for chording. A 12-inch radius is flatter, which can make bending notes, vibrato, and tapping easier. The choice between the two often depends on personal preference and playing style.
Which fingerboard radius is better for playing chords?
The 9.5-inch fingerboard radius is generally considered more comfortable for playing chords, especially in the lower frets, due to its more curved nature.
Is a 12-inch fingerboard radius better for lead guitarists?
Many lead guitarists prefer a 12-inch fingerboard radius because its flatter surface is conducive to techniques like string bending and fast soloing. Shredders, in particular, may opt for even flatter radii, such as 16 inches.
Does fingerboard radius affect guitar action?
Yes, the fingerboard radius can affect the guitar’s action. A flatter radius, like 12 inches, can accommodate a lower action without fret buzz, especially when bending strings. A more curved radius, like 9.5 inches, may require a higher action to prevent buzz during bends.
What are some examples of guitars with a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius?
Guitars with a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius include various models from Fender, such as the American Professional II Series, American Performer, American Original ’50s and ’60s Series, Player Series, and Vintera Modified Series, as well as Squier guitars.
What are some examples of guitars with a 12-inch fingerboard radius?
Guitars with a 12-inch fingerboard radius include models from Gibson, such as the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335, as well as the Fender Player Plus and Eric Johnson Stratocaster.
Can fingerboard radius affect the tone of the guitar?
Fingerboard radius has minimal, if any, effect on the tone of the guitar. The tone is more significantly influenced by other factors such as the guitar’s body wood, construction, and pickups.
What is a compound radius fingerboard, and how does it compare?
A compound radius fingerboard gradually flattens out from the nut to the higher frets, combining the comfort of a smaller radius for chording with the ease of a larger radius for bending and soloing. It can offer the best of both worlds but may make the guitar more expensive.
Are there other factors to consider besides fingerboard radius when choosing a guitar?
Yes, other factors to consider include the neck profile, depth, and width, as well as the overall feel of the neck. It’s important to try guitars with different neck dimensions to determine what feels most comfortable for you.
How can I decide which fingerboard radius is right for me?
The best way to decide which fingerboard radius is right for you is to play as many different guitars as possible. This hands-on experience will allow you to feel the difference and determine which radius suits your playing style and comfort preferences.