Quote:
Originally Posted by jklotz
In the acoustic world, we talk a lot about tone woods, body size, bracing, nut width and string spacing. It seems odd to me nobody ever mentions fretboard radius. Many manufacturers/builders don't even mention this spec. I know Martin makes their's at 16". Collings does a 12-16" compound radius, Eastman is 12". Personally, I find a 12" radius to be much easier for bar chords, particularly when used for fingerstyle where every note has to be clear.
Why are most folks not more interested in this spec? In the electric world, a flatter radius works better for bending notes and a more curved is considered better for chording. But not much bending happens on an acoustic. Why is this not a point of contention with acoustic guitars?
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Great post. You’re likely posting what has gone through the minds of a few guitarists. I remember thinking/wondering the same thing at one point, especially given how much of an impact it theoretically could have on playability for someone. As you say, it is a weird not talked about issue for sure.