Unveiling the Secrets of the 6-String Multiscale Guitar: A Journey of Sonic Discovery

Is a six string multiscale guitar really worth it? Absolutely! And here’s why.

Editor’s Notes:Six string multiscale guitars are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, increased playing comfort, and extended range.

After some analysis and digging, we put together this six string multiscale guitar guide to help you make the right decision.

If you’re looking for a guitar that offers superior intonation, increased playing comfort, and extended range, then a six string multiscale guitar is definitely worth considering.

1. Intonation

Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch of a guitar string when it is fretted. On a traditional guitar, the frets are evenly spaced, which can lead to intonation problems, especially in the higher frets. This is because the string is not stretched evenly over the frets, which can cause it to play sharp or flat.

• Fanned frets: On a six string multiscale guitar, the frets are arranged in a fanned pattern, which means that they are not evenly spaced. This design helps to improve intonation because the string is stretched more evenly over the frets.
• Improved accuracy: As a result, six string multiscale guitars have improved intonation compared to traditional guitars. This means that the notes played on a multiscale guitar will be more accurate in pitch, which is especially important for playing chords and melodies.
• Consistent sound: The improved intonation of six string multiscale guitars also makes them more consistent sounding across the entire fretboard. This means that you can play anywhere on the neck and get a clear, accurate sound.
• Easier to play: The improved intonation of six string multiscale guitars also makes them easier to play. This is because you don’t have to worry about your notes going out of tune as you move up and down the neck.

Overall, the improved intonation of six string multiscale guitars is one of their key advantages over traditional guitars. This makes them a great choice for players who want to play with accurate intonation and consistent sound.

2. Playing Comfort

Playing comfort is an important consideration for any guitarist, but it is especially important for those who play for long periods of time. Traditional guitars can be uncomfortable to play, especially if the player has a smaller frame or shorter arms. This is because the body of the guitar can be bulky and the neck can be difficult to reach.

• Ergonomic design: Six string multiscale guitars are designed to be more comfortable to play than traditional guitars. They have a smaller body and a shorter neck, which makes them easier to reach and play. Additionally, the cutaway design of the body allows for easier access to the higher frets.
• Reduced strain: The ergonomic design of six string multiscale guitars helps to reduce strain on the player’s body. This is because the guitar is more evenly balanced and the weight is distributed more evenly across the body.
• Improved posture: The ergonomic design of six string multiscale guitars also helps to improve the player’s posture. This is because the guitar is positioned closer to the body, which helps to reduce hunching and slouching.
• Increased playing time: The increased playing comfort of six string multiscale guitars allows players to play for longer periods of time without experiencing discomfort. This is a major benefit for players who gig or practice for long hours.

Overall, the increased playing comfort of six string multiscale guitars is one of their key advantages over traditional guitars. This makes them a great choice for players who want to play with comfort and ease.

3. Range

One of the key advantages of six string multiscale guitars is their extended range. This is due to the longer scale length on the lower strings. On a traditional guitar, the scale length is the same for all six strings. This means that the lower strings are shorter than the higher strings. This can limit the range of the guitar, especially on the lower strings.

• Longer scale length: Six string multiscale guitars have a longer scale length on the lower strings. This means that the lower strings are longer than on a traditional guitar. This allows for a wider range of notes to be played on the lower strings.
• Extended range: The longer scale length on the lower strings of six string multiscale guitars gives them an extended range. This means that players can play notes that are not possible on a traditional guitar. This is especially beneficial for players who want to play in lower tunings or who want to explore new sonic possibilities.
• Tighter string tension: The longer scale length on the lower strings of six string multiscale guitars also results in tighter string tension. This means that the strings are less likely to go out of tune, which is especially important for players who use low tunings.
• Improved intonation: The longer scale length on the lower strings of six string multiscale guitars also improves intonation. This means that the notes played on the lower strings will be more accurate in pitch, whi
  ch is especially important for playing chords and melodies.

Overall, the extended range of six string multiscale guitars is one of their key advantages over traditional guitars. This makes them a great choice for players who want to play in lower tunings, who want to explore new sonic possibilities, or who simply want a guitar with a wider range.

4. Versatility

Six string multiscale guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide variety of musical styles. This is due to their unique design, which offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars. One of the key advantages of six string multiscale guitars is their extended range. This makes them ideal for playing in lower tunings, which is common in genres such as metal and djent. Additionally, the fanned frets on six string multiscale guitars improve intonation, which makes them well-suited for playing chords and melodies. Another advantage of six string multiscale guitars is their playing comfort. The ergonomic design of these guitars makes them easier to play for extended periods of time, which is important for genres such as jazz and blues. Additionally, the reduced string tension on the lower strings makes it easier to play bends and vibrato, which is essential for genres such as rock and country.

Here are some specific examples of how six string multiscale guitars have been used in different musical styles:

• Metal: Six string multiscale guitars are popular in metal music due to their extended range and improved intonation. Some notable metal guitarists who use six string multiscale guitars include Misha Mansoor of Periphery and Ola Englund of The Haunted.
• Djent: Djent is a subgenre of metal that is characterized by its heavy, distorted sound and use of extended range guitars. Six string multiscale guitars are well-suited for djent due to their extended range and tight string tension.
• Jazz: Six string multiscale guitars are also becoming increasingly popular in jazz music. This is due to their playing comfort and improved intonation, which make them ideal for playing complex chords and melodies.
• Blues: Six string multiscale guitars are also well-suited for blues music. The reduced string tension on the lower strings makes it easier to play bends and vibrato, which are essential for blues guitar playing.
• Country: Six string multiscale guitars are also becoming increasingly popular in country music. This is due to their versatility and playing comfort, which make them ideal for playing a variety of country styles.

Overall, six string multiscale guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide variety of musical styles. Their unique design offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars, making them a great choice for players of all levels and genres.

5. Customization

Six string multiscale guitars are highly customizable, which is one of their key advantages over traditional guitars. This is because the scale length, fanning, and other aspects of the guitar can be tailored to the player’s individual needs.

One of the most important aspects of a guitar is the scale length. The scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge, and it affects the tension of the strings and the overall sound of the guitar. A longer scale length will result in tighter string tension and a brighter sound, while a shorter scale length will result in looser string tension and a warmer sound. Six string multiscale guitars allow the player to customize the scale length of each individual string, which gives them a great deal of control over the sound of their guitar.

Another important aspect of a guitar is the fanning. The fanning refers to the way that the frets are arranged on the guitar. On a traditional guitar, the frets are evenly spaced, but on a six string multiscale guitar, the frets are fanned out. This means that the frets are closer together on the higher strings and further apart on the lower strings. This design improves the intonation of the guitar, especially in the higher frets.

In addition to the scale length and fanning, there are a number of other aspects of a six string multiscale guitar that can be customized to the player’s individual needs. These include the body shape, the neck shape, the pickups, and the hardware. This level of customization allows the player to create a guitar that is perfectly suited to their playing style and preferences.

Here are some specific examples of how six string multiscale guitars have been customized to meet the needs of individual players:

• Misha Mansoor of Periphery uses a six string multiscale guitar with a 25.5″ scale length on the low strings and a 27″ scale length on the high strings. This gives him a wide range of tones to work with, from djent to clean arpeggios.
• Ola Englund of The Haunted uses a six string multiscale guitar with a 26.5″ scale length on the low strings and a 28″ scale length on the high strings. This gives him a tight, aggressive sound that is perfect for metal.
• John Petrucci of Dream Theater uses a six string multiscale guitar with a 24.5″ scale length on all six strings. This gives him a consistent playing experience across the entire neck.

These are just a few examples of how six string multiscale guitars can be customized to meet the needs of individual players. With so many options available, players can create a guitar that is perfectly suited to their playing style and preferences.

6. Innovation

The six string multiscale guitar is a relatively new and innovative design that has quickly gained popularity among guitarists of all levels. This unique guitar features a fanned fret design, in which the frets are arranged in a non-traditional pattern. This design offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, increased playing comfort, and extended range.

• Improved intonation: The fanned fret design of the six st
  ring multiscale guitar helps to improve intonation, especially in the higher frets. This is because the frets are positioned in a way that allows the strings to vibrate more evenly, resulting in a more accurate and consistent sound.
• Increased playing comfort: The six string multiscale guitar is also designed to be more comfortable to play than traditional guitars. The body is typically smaller and lighter, and the neck is shorter and narrower. This makes the guitar easier to reach and play, especially for players with smaller hands or shorter arms.
• Extended range: The fanned fret design of the six string multiscale guitar also allows for an extended range of notes to be played. This is because the scale length of the lower strings is longer than the scale length of the higher strings. This gives players access to notes that are not possible to play on a traditional guitar.
• Unique sound: The fanned fret design of the six string multiscale guitar also gives it a unique sound. This is because the strings vibrate at different frequencies, resulting in a richer and more complex sound.

Overall, the six string multiscale guitar is a versatile and innovative instrument that offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars. Its unique design makes it ideal for players of all levels and genres.

7. Ergonomics

The ergonomic design of the six string multiscale guitar is one of its key advantages over traditional guitars. This is because the guitar is designed to be more comfortable to play for extended periods of time, reducing strain on the player’s body.

One of the most important aspects of the ergonomic design of the six string multiscale guitar is the body shape. The body is typically smaller and lighter than a traditional guitar, making it easier to hold and play. Additionally, the body is often contoured to fit the player’s body more comfortably.

Another important aspect of the ergonomic design of the six string multiscale guitar is the neck shape. The neck is typically shorter and narrower than a traditional guitar, making it easier to reach and play. Additionally, the neck is often designed with a compound radius, which means that the radius of the fretboard decreases as you move up the neck. This makes it easier to play chords and melodies in the higher frets.

The ergonomic design of the six string multiscale guitar also includes a number of other features that contribute to its playing comfort. These features include a recessed body, a beveled forearm contour, and a contoured heel. These features all work together to make the guitar more comfortable to play for extended periods of time.

Overall, the ergonomic design of the six string multiscale guitar is one of its key advantages over traditional guitars. This design makes the guitar more comfortable to play for extended periods of time, reducing strain on the player’s body.

8. Extended Range

The extended range of the six string multiscale guitar is one of its key advantages over traditional guitars. This is due to the longer scale length on the lower strings, which allows for a wider range of notes to be played.

• Increased range: The longer scale length on the lower strings of the six string multiscale guitar gives it an extended range, allowing players to play notes that are not possible on a traditional guitar. This is especially beneficial for players who want to play in lower tunings or who want to explore new sonic possibilities.
• Tighter string tension: The longer scale length on the lower strings of the six string multiscale guitar also results in tighter string tension. This means that the strings are less likely to go out of tune, which is especially important for players who use low tunings.
• Improved intonation: The longer scale length on the lower strings of the six string multiscale guitar also improves intonation. This means that the notes played on the lower strings will be more accurate in pitch, which is especially important for playing chords and melodies.
• New sonic possibilities: The extended range of the six string multiscale guitar opens up new sonic possibilities for players. This is because the guitar can be used to play notes that are not possible on a traditional guitar. This can be used to create new and innovative soundscapes.

Overall, the extended range of the six string multiscale guitar is one of its key advantages over traditional guitars. This makes it a great choice for players who want to play in lower tunings, who want to explore new sonic possibilities, or who simply want a guitar with a wider range.

9. Fanned Frets

Fanned frets are a key component of six string multiscale guitars, and they play a vital role in improving the intonation of the guitar. Traditional guitars have frets that are evenly spaced, which can lead to intonation problems, especially in the higher frets. This is because the string is not stretched evenly over the frets, which can cause it to play sharp or flat.

Fanned frets, on the other hand, are arranged in a fanned pattern, which means that they are not evenly spaced. This design helps to improve intonation because the string is stretched more evenly over the frets. As a result, six string multiscale guitars have improved intonation compared to traditional guitars, which means that the notes played on a multiscale guitar will be more accurate in pitch.

The improved intonation of six string multiscale guitars makes them a great choice for players who want to play with accurate intonation and consistent sound. This is especially important for players who play chords and melodies, as well as for players who use low tunings.

Here are some real-life examples of how fanned frets improve the intonation of six string multiscale guitars:

• Example 1: A player is playing a chord on a traditional guitar in the 12th fret. The note on the high E string is playing sharp, while the note on the low E string is playing flat. This is because the string is not stretched evenly over the frets.
• Example 2: The same player is now playing the same chord on a six string multiscale guitar. The notes on both the high E string and the low E string are now playing in tune. This is because the fanned frets help to stretch the string more evenly over the frets.

The improved intonation of six string multiscale guitars is a major advantage over traditional guitars. This makes them a great choice for players who want
to play with accurate intonation and consistent sound.

Here is a table that summarizes the key points about fanned frets and their importance in six string multiscale guitars:

10. Multiscale

The multiscale design of six string multiscale guitars is one of their key features. This design gives these guitars a unique sound that is not possible to achieve on traditional guitars.

• Tonal Variation: The varying string lengths on a six string multiscale guitar result in a wider tonal range. The longer strings produce a deeper, more resonant sound, while the shorter strings produce a brighter, more articulate sound. This tonal variation gives players a greater palette of sounds to work with.
• Enhanced Harmonics: The multiscale design also enhances the guitar’s harmonics. This is because the different string lengths create different harmonic patterns. These patterns can be used to create rich, complex soundscapes.
• Improved Intonation: The multiscale design also helps to improve the guitar’s intonation. This is because the strings are stretched more evenly over the frets, which results in more accurate tuning. This improved intonation is especially noticeable in the higher frets.
• Unique Playing Experience: The multiscale design of six string multiscale guitars also gives them a unique playing experience. The different string lengths can take some time to get used to, but once players adjust, they often find that they can play morely and with greater control.

Overall, the multiscale design of six string multiscale guitars gives them a unique sound and playing experience. These guitars are a great choice for players who are looking for a guitar that is both versatile and innovative.

11. Pitch Range

The innovative design of the six string multiscale guitar extends beyond its physical construction and delves into the realm of sonic capabilities. One of its defining characteristics is its expanded pitch range, a feature that opens up a world of creative possibilities for guitarists.

• Extended Range: The most significant aspect of the wider pitch range on a six string multiscale guitar is the extended range of notes that can be played. The longer scale length of the lower strings allows for lower notes to be produced, while the shorter scale length of the higher strings enables higher notes to be reached. This extended range provides guitarists with a broader sonic palette to explore and experiment with.
• Tonal Variation: The varying scale lengths across the strings result in a unique tonal variation. The longer strings produce a deeper, richer sound, while the shorter strings produce a brighter, more articulate sound. This tonal variation allows guitarists to create a wider range of sounds and textures, enhancing their musical expression.
• Enhanced Harmonics: The multiscale design also affects the guitar’s harmonics. The different string lengths create different harmonic patterns, which can be utilized to produce richer and more complex sounds. This enhanced harmonic response opens up new avenues for sonic experimentation and sound design.
• Genre Versatility: The extended pitch range and tonal variation of the six string multiscale guitar make it suitable for a wide range of musical genres. From the low tunings of metal to the high-pitched melodies of jazz, this guitar can adapt to various musical styles, providing guitarists with a versatile instrument that can meet their musical needs.

In conclusion, the wider pitch range of the six string multiscale guitar is a testament to its innovative design. This extended range, coupled with its tonal variation and enhanced harmonics, empowers guitarists with a versatile and expressive instrument that pushes the boundaries of musical exploration and creativity.

12. String Tension

In the realm of guitar design and playability, the string tension plays a crucial role in determining the overall feel and responsiveness of the instrument. In the case of six string multiscale guitars, the innovative approach to scale length has a direct impact on the string tension, resulting in several key advantages for guitarists.

• Enhanced Playability: The evenly distributed string tension across the six strings of a multiscale guitar significantly enhances playability. This balanced tension makes it easier to fret notes, especially during complex chords and rapid-fire solos. The reduced effort required for fretting translates to greater comfort and less fatigue, allowing guitarists to play for longer durations without experiencing discomfort.
• Improved Intonation: The consistent string tension also contributes to improved intonation across the entire fretboard. Traditional guitars often exhibit intonation issues, particularly in the higher frets, due to uneven string tension. However, in a multiscale guitar, the optimized string tension ensures that each note rings out with greater accuracy, enhancing the overall sound quality and harmonic integrity.
• Increased Tuning Stability: The balanced string tension plays a vital role in maintaining tuning stability. The even distribution of tension prevents strings from going out of tune as easily, even during aggressive playing styles or temperature fluctuations. This increased stability allows guitarists to stay in tune for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent adjustments and maximizing playing time.
• Versatile Playing Styles: The evenly distributed string tension on a six string multiscale guitar caters to a wide range of playing styles. Whether it’s intricate fingerpicking, heavy riffing, or soaring lead lines, the guitar responds with a consistent feel and playability. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for guitarists who explore diverse musical genres or techniques.

In conclusion, the evenly distributed string tension on a six string multiscale guitar is a testament to its innovative design. It enhances playability, improves intonation, increases tuning stability, and accommodates various playing styles. These advantages collectively elevate the guitar playing experience, making it a compelling choice for guitarists seeking an instrument that combines precision, comfort, and versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions on Six String Multiscale Guitars

This section addresses common inquiries and
misconceptions surrounding six string multiscale guitars, providing informative answers to guide your understanding.

Question 1: What is the primary advantage of a six string multiscale guitar over a traditional guitar?

Answer: Six string multiscale guitars offer several advantages, including improved intonation due to fanned frets, increased playing comfort from an ergonomic design, and an extended range thanks to a longer scale length on the lower strings.

Question 2: How does the fanned fret design contribute to better intonation?

Answer: The fanned frets on a six string multiscale guitar are arranged in a way that increases the string tension on the lower strings and decreases it on the higher strings. This results in more accurate intonation, especially in the higher frets where traditional guitars often struggle.

Question 3: Is a six string multiscale guitar more comfortable to play than a traditional guitar?

Answer: Yes, many guitarists find six string multiscale guitars more comfortable to play due to their ergonomic design. They typically have a smaller body and a shorter neck, making them easier to reach and play, especially for players with smaller hands or shorter arms.

Question 4: What is the benefit of the extended range on a six string multiscale guitar?

Answer: The extended range on a six string multiscale guitar allows players to access notes that are not possible on a traditional guitar. This is particularly useful for guitarists who play in lower tunings, explore new sonic possibilities, or simply want a wider range of notes at their disposal.

Question 5: Are six string multiscale guitars suitable for all playing styles?

Answer: Six string multiscale guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of playing styles. Their unique design and extended range make them particularly well-suited for genres such as metal, djent, jazz, blues, and country.

Question 6: What should I consider when choosing a six string multiscale guitar?

Answer: When selecting a six string multiscale guitar, factors to consider include the scale length, fanning, body shape, neck shape, pickups, and hardware. It’s important to choose a guitar that aligns with your playing style, preferences, and physical comfort.

In conclusion, six string multiscale guitars offer a unique and innovative design that provides advantages in intonation, playing comfort, range, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, a six string multiscale guitar can enhance your playing experience and open up new musical possibilities.

Transition to the next article section: For further insights and detailed discussions on six string multiscale guitars, explore the resources and articles available online or connect with experienced guitarists and luthiers.

Tips on Six String Multiscale Guitars

Harnessing the unique capabilities of a six string multiscale guitar requires a nuanced approach and an understanding of its specific characteristics. Here are some valuable tips to optimize your playing experience and unlock the full potential of this innovative instrument:

Tip 1: Explore the Extended Range: Embrace the extended range of notes available on a six string multiscale guitar. Experiment with lower tunings, soaring high notes, and unconventional scales to expand your sonic palette and create unique soundscapes.

Tip 2: Master the Fanned Fret Technique: The fanned frets on a six string multiscale guitar require a slight adjustment in fretting technique. Practice scales and chords to develop muscle memory and improve your accuracy, especially in the higher frets where intonation benefits are most pronounced.

Tip 3: Utilize the Tonal Variation: The varying string tension across the strings creates a wide tonal range. Explore different picking techniques and string gauges to discover the diverse sonic possibilities. Experiment with combining bright, articulate tones from the higher strings with deep, resonant tones from the lower strings.

Tip 4: Enhance Your Ergonomics: Six string multiscale guitars are designed with ergonomics in mind. Take advantage of the smaller body and shorter neck to improve your playing posture and reduce strain. Experiment with different playing positions and strap configurations to find the most comfortable setup.

Tip 5: Choose the Right Accessories: Selecting the appropriate accessories can further enhance your playing experience. Consider using a wider strap to distribute the weight of the guitar more evenly and reduce shoulder fatigue. Experiment with different picks to find the optimal tone and attack for your playing style.

Tip 6: Explore Different Tunings: The extended range of a six string multiscale guitar opens up possibilities for exploring non-standard tunings. Experiment with drop tunings, open tunings, and custom tunings to create unique sounds and expand your musical vocabulary.

Tip 7: Embrace the Learning Curve: Adjusting to a six string multiscale guitar may require some initial adaptation. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t feel comfortable immediately. With regular practice and patience, you will develop the muscle memory and technique to fully harness the instrument’s capabilities.

Key Takeaways: By embracing the extended range, mastering the fanned fret technique, utilizing the tonal variation, enhancing ergonomics, choosing the right accessories, exploring different tunings, and embracing the learning curve, you can unlock the full potential of a six string multiscale guitar. This innovative instrument offers a unique playing experience, expanded sonic possibilities, and increased comfort, empowering guitarists to explore new musical horizons.

Conclusion: Embark on a journey of discovery with a six string multiscale guitar. With dedication and a willingness to embrace its unique characteristics, you can unlock a world of sonic possibilities and elevate your playing experience to new heights.

Conclusion

The exploration of six string multiscale guitars unveils a world of innovative design and exceptional playing capabilities. These guitars offer a unique blend of improved intonation, increased playing comfort, extended range, and tonal versatility, making them a compelling choice for guitarists seeking to expand their musical horizons.

The fanned fret design addresses intonation issues prevalent in traditional guitars, resulting in more accurate and consistent notes across the entire fretboard. The ergonomic design enhances playing comfort, reducing strain and fatigue, especially during extended playing sessions. The extended range opens up new possibilities for exploring lower tunings, soaring melodies, and unconventional scales.

Embracing a six string multiscale guitar requires a willingness to adapt and explore. With dedication and practice, guitarists can master the fanned fret technique, harness the tonal variation, and discover the unique sonic possibilities that this innovative instrument offers.

As the future of guitar design continues to evolve, six string multiscale guitars stand as a testament to the pursuit of innovation and the desire to enhance the playing experience. They empower guitarists to break free from traditional boundaries and create music that is both captivating and unique.