Scalloped fretboard why

On the upside, it is really good to experiment with. If you insist on taking that risk then the good news is that there are good luthiers out there who do scalloping and give exceptionally good results. I have been playing guitar for over 15 years and have come to learn the "tips" and "tricks" of how to overcome some of the most difficult barriers when it comes to your guitar playing; some of which most people never overcome.

Im confident that with my help coupled with your inspiration and passion for music you can overcome these too! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Table of Contents. Lock nut Gloss Heel Width: Related Posts. Guitar legend Yngwie Malmsteen has the procedure done on all his Stratocasters which contributes to his signature sound, as does Ritchie Blackmore from Deep Purple his Ritchie Blackmore Signature Stratocaster features scallops.

While improving note separation is often seen as a benefit of more upmarket pickups, a scalloped fretboard also helps with note clarity too, especially when playing legato techniques such as hammer-ons and pull-offs. It takes a bit of getting used to, as you need to learn how to apply a lighter touch than normal and be really deliberate with each note. To play a scalloped fretboard you have to change your playing technique and develop an extra light touch.

Press too hard, and you can accidentally sharpen a note, pressing the note out of tune. Chords are notoriously harder to play even simple open chords. However, there is a good compromise: a partially scalloped fretboard. CONS Care should be taken not to exert too much vertical pressure on the notes to avoid unintentional out of tune sounds, especially in the first positions. The need for a more even and lighter touch can negatively affect the dynamics and expressiveness of the performance.

HELPFUL TIPS If the scalloped fretboard appeals to you but you don't want to approach it directly, an excellent alternative is to mount super-high-jumbo frets on your guitar neck, such as a Dunlop or , which are very close in feel to the scalloped fretboard.

It is common only to have a partial job too. As for finding guitars with a partially scalloped fretboard for sale, some of the Steve Vai Jems particularly the white 7V one are concaved from the 21st to the 24th fret. One of the myths surrounding scalloped fretboards is that it causes you to play faster. You will have to take time to get used to the feel of it. On the other hand, the only way that these different frets can make you play guitar faster is that it will force you to pay attention to your technique, and once again, play more delicately.

With a lighter touch, you will reduce the tension in your hands, and also probably make shorter movements to get to the next note, which relates to the economy of motion of your fretting hand.

Imagine having impeccable guitar technique and scalloped frets? Sounds like an amazing combination to me! It will absolutely cost you a pretty penny for sure though!