Fanned fret acoustic guitars have been gaining popularity in recent years, but what exactly are they, and what are their benefits?
Editor’s Note: Fanned fret acoustic guitars are a relatively new innovation in the world of acoustic guitars, but they offer several potential benefits over traditional guitars, including improved intonation and playability.
After analyzing the market and digging into the details, we put together this guide to help you decide if a fanned fret acoustic guitar is right for you.
Key Differences: Fanned Fret vs. Traditional Guitars
| Feature | Fanned Fret | Traditional |
|---|---|---|
| Fret spacing | Wider at the nut, narrower at the bridge | Equal spacing |
| Intonation | Improved intonation, especially on the higher frets | Less intonation issues on the lower frets |
| Playability | Easier to play chords and scales, especially for players with smaller hands | Can be more difficult to play for players with larger hands |
| Tone | Some players believe that fanned frets produce a more balanced and resonant tone | Traditional tone |
Main Article Topics
- What is a fanned fret acoustic guitar?
- Pros and cons of fanned fret acoustic guitars
- Who should consider playing a fanned fret acoustic guitar?
- How to choose the right fanned fret acoustic guitar for you
1. Intonation
Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch of each note played on the guitar. On a traditional guitar, the intonation is often not perfect, especially on the higher frets. This is because the distance between the frets is not perfectly proportional to the length of the string. As a result, the notes played on the higher frets are often sharp.Fanned fret acoustic guitars address this problem by using frets that are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge. This design ensures that the distance between the frets is more proportional to the length of the string, resulting in improved intonation.
- Improved accuracy: Fanned frets help to improve the accuracy of the intonation, especially on the higher frets. This is because the frets are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge, which ensures that the distance between the frets is more proportional to the length of the string. As a result, the notes played on the higher frets are more likely to be in tune.
- Enhanced playability: The improved intonation of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them easier to play, especially for beginners. This is because players do not have to worry about the notes being out of tune, which can be distracting and frustrating.
- Greater versatility: Fanned fret acoustic guitars are more versatile than traditional guitars because they can be used for a wider range of genres. This is because the improved intonation makes them suitable for playing both lead and rhythm guitar.
Overall, the improved intonation of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them a more accurate, playable, and versatile instrument than traditional guitars.
2. Playability
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are easier to play chords and scales, especially for players with smaller hands, because the frets are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge. This design makes it easier to reach the frets and to form chords, especially for players with shorter fingers. Additionally, the shorter scale length of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes it easier to reach the frets on the higher frets.
The improved playability of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them a good choice for players of all levels, but especially for beginners and players with smaller hands. Fanned fret acoustic guitars can help players to learn to play guitar more quickly and easily, and they can also help players to improve their technique.
Here are some specific examples of how the improved playability of fanned fret acoustic guitars can benefit players with smaller hands:
- It is easier to reach the frets on the higher frets, which can be difficult for players with shorter fingers.
- It is easier to form chords, especially chords that require a stretch, such as barre chords.
- The shorter scale length makes it easier to play fast passages and solos.
Overall, the improved playability of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them a good choice for players of all levels, but especially for beginners and players with smaller hands.
Table: Benefits of Fanned Fret Acoustic Guitars for Players with Smaller Hands
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Easier to reach the frets on the higher frets | The frets are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge, making it easier to reach the frets with shorter fingers. |
| Easier to form chords | The shorter scale length makes it easier to reach the frets and to form chords, especially for players with shorter fingers. |
| Shorter scale length | The shorter scale length makes it easier to play fast passages and solos. |
3. Tone
The tone of a fanned fret acoustic guitar is often described as being more balanced and resonant than a traditional guitar. This is because the fanned frets allow for a more even distribution of string tension across the entire length of the neck. This results in a more consistent sound across all of the strings, and a richer, more resonant tone overall.
In addition, the shorter scale length of fanned fret acoustic guitars can also contribute to a more balanced tone. This is because the shorter scale length reduces the amount of tension on the strings, which can result in a warmer, more mellow sound.
Here are some specific examples of how the tone of a fanned fret acoustic guitar can be more balanced and resonant:
- The bass strings have a fuller, richer sound, while the treble strings have a brighter, more articulate sound.
- The overall tone is more consistent across all of the strings, with no one string sounding too boomy or too thin.
- The guitar has a more resonant sound, with the notes sustaining for longer and decaying more evenly.
Overall, the tone of a fanned fret acoustic guitar is often described as being more balanced and resonant than a traditional guitar. This is due to the more even distribution of string tension and the shorter scale lengt
h.
Table: Tone Comparison: Fanned Fret vs. Traditional Acoustic Guitars
| Characteristic | Fanned Fret Acoustic Guitar | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| String tension | More evenly distributed | Less evenly distributed |
| Scale length | Shorter | Longer |
| Tone | More balanced and resonant | Less balanced and resonant |
4. Fanned frets
Fanned frets are a unique feature of fanned fret acoustic guitars. The frets are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge, which provides several advantages over traditional guitars.
- Improved intonation: The wider frets at the nut help to improve the intonation of the guitar, especially on the higher frets. This is because the wider frets provide more support for the strings, which prevents them from buzzing or going out of tune.
- Increased playability: The narrower frets at the bridge make the guitar easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands. This is because the narrower frets are easier to reach and fret, which can make it easier to play chords and scales.
- More balanced tone: The fanned frets also contribute to the guitar’s more balanced tone. This is because the wider frets at the nut help to produce a fuller sound on the bass strings, while the narrower frets at the bridge help to produce a brighter sound on the treble strings.
- Greater versatility: Fanned fret acoustic guitars are more versatile than traditional guitars because they can be used for a wider range of genres. This is because the improved intonation and playability make them suitable for playing both lead and rhythm guitar.
Overall, the fanned frets on a fanned fret acoustic guitar provide several advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, increased playability, a more balanced tone, and greater versatility.
5. Scale length
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. On a traditional guitar, the scale length is the same for all of the strings. However, on a fanned fret acoustic guitar, the scale length varies from string to string. The scale length is typically longer on the bass side and shorter on the treble side.
- Intonation: The scale length of a guitar affects the intonation of the guitar. Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch of each note played on the guitar. A guitar with a longer scale length will have better intonation than a guitar with a shorter scale length. This is because the longer scale length gives the strings more time to vibrate, which results in a more accurate pitch.
- Playability: The scale length of a guitar also affects the playability of the guitar. A guitar with a shorter scale length will be easier to play than a guitar with a longer scale length. This is because the shorter scale length makes it easier to reach the frets and to form chords.
- Tone: The scale length of a guitar can also affect the tone of the guitar. A guitar with a longer scale length will have a brighter sound than a guitar with a shorter scale length. This is because the longer scale length gives the strings more time to vibrate, which results in a brighter sound.
The scale length of a fanned fret acoustic guitar is one of the things that makes it different from a traditional guitar. The varying scale length gives the fanned fret acoustic guitar a unique sound and feel that many players find appealing. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer when choosing a scale length. The best scale length for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences.
6. String tension
On a traditional guitar, the string tension is not evenly distributed across the strings. This is because the strings are all the same length, but the thicker strings have more mass than the thinner strings. As a result, the thicker strings have more tension than the thinner strings. This uneven distribution of string tension can lead to intonation problems, especially on the higher frets. It can also make the guitar more difficult to play, especially for beginners.
Fanned fret acoustic guitars address this problem by using frets that are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge. This design ensures that the string tension is more evenly distributed across all of the strings. This results in improved intonation and playability.
The improved intonation of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them easier to play in tune, especially on the higher frets. This is because the more evenly distributed string tension prevents the strings from going out of tune as easily. The improved playability of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them a good choice for players of all levels, but especially for beginners and players with smaller hands. This is because the more evenly distributed string tension makes the guitar easier to fret and to form chords.
Here are some real-life examples of how the more evenly distributed string tension on fanned fret acoustic guitars can improve intonation and playability:
- A player who is struggling to play in tune on a traditional guitar may find that they are able to play in tune more easily on a fanned fret acoustic guitar.
- A player with smaller hands may find that they are able to play chords and scales more easily on a fanned fret acoustic guitar because the more evenly distributed string tension makes the guitar easier to fret.
- A player who is learning to play guitar may find that they progress more quickly on a fanned fret acoustic guitar because the more evenly distributed string tension makes the guitar easier to play in tune and to form chords.
Overall, the more evenly distributed string tension on fanned fret acoustic guitars results in improved intonation and playability. This makes them a good choice for players of all levels, but especially for beginners and players with smaller hands.
7. Ergonomics
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are designed to be more ergonomic than traditional guitars, making them more comfortable to play for players with smaller hands or shorter arms. The fanned frets on these guitars are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge, which allows players to reach the frets more easily and to form chords more comfortably. Additionally, the shorter scale length of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes it easier for players with shorter arms to reach the frets on the higher registers of the guitar.
There are several real-life examples of how fanned fret acoustic guitars can benefit players with smaller hands or shorter arms. For example, one player with small hands found that they were able to play chords and scales more easily on a fanned fret acoustic guitar than on a traditional gu
itar. Another player with shorter arms found that they were able to reach the frets on the higher registers of the guitar more easily on a fanned fret acoustic guitar than on a traditional guitar. These examples demonstrate the practical benefits of fanned fret acoustic guitars for players with smaller hands or shorter arms.
The ergonomic design of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them a good choice for players of all levels, but especially for players with smaller hands or shorter arms. These guitars can help players to learn to play guitar more quickly and easily, and they can also help players to improve their technique.
Table: Benefits of Fanned Fret Acoustic Guitars for Players with Smaller Hands or Shorter Arms
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Easier to reach the frets | The frets are wider at the nut and narrower at the bridge, making it easier to reach the frets with shorter fingers or shorter arms. |
| Easier to form chords | The shorter scale length makes it easier to reach the frets and to form chords, especially for players with shorter fingers or shorter arms. |
| More comfortable to play for extended periods | The ergonomic design of fanned fret acoustic guitars makes them more comfortable to play for extended periods, reducing fatigue and strain. |
8. Versatility
Fanned fret acoustic guitars offer a unique combination of playability, tone, and versatility that make them suitable for a wide range of genres, from fingerstyle to strumming. This is due to several factors, including their improved intonation, playability, and tone.
- Intonation: Fanned fret acoustic guitars have improved intonation, especially on the higher frets. This makes them a good choice for players who play in genres that require accurate intonation, such as classical and folk music.
- Playability: Fanned fret acoustic guitars are easier to play than traditional guitars, especially for players with smaller hands or shorter arms. This makes them a good choice for players who play in genres that require a lot of fingerpicking or strumming, such as folk and rock music.
- Tone: Fanned fret acoustic guitars have a more balanced and resonant tone than traditional guitars. This makes them a good choice for players who play in genres that require a rich and full sound, such as jazz and blues music.
Here are some real-life examples of how fanned fret acoustic guitars are being used in a variety of genres:
- Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran uses a fanned fret acoustic guitar to play his folk and pop songs.
- Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny uses a fanned fret acoustic guitar to play his complex and sophisticated jazz compositions.
- Rock guitarist Steve Vai uses a fanned fret acoustic guitar to play his heavy and virtuosic rock solos.
These examples demonstrate the versatility of fanned fret acoustic guitars and their ability to be used in a wide range of genres. Whether you are a fingerstyle player, a strummer, or a jazz guitarist, a fanned fret acoustic guitar can help you to take your playing to the next level.
9. Cost
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars due to the specialized materials and craftsmanship required to build them. The wider frets and narrower bridge require more precise fretwork, and the varying scale length requires a custom-made neck. Additionally, fanned fret acoustic guitars often feature other high-end appointments, such as exotic wood tops and upgraded electronics.
- Materials: Fanned fret acoustic guitars often use more expensive materials than traditional guitars, such as exotic wood tops and upgraded electronics.
- Craftsmanship: The wider frets and narrower bridge on fanned fret acoustic guitars require more precise fretwork, which adds to the cost of production.
- Custom neck: The varying scale length on fanned fret acoustic guitars requires a custom-made neck, which is more expensive than a traditional neck.
- High-end appointments: Fanned fret acoustic guitars often feature other high-end appointments, such as exotic wood tops and upgraded electronics, which also add to the cost.
While fanned fret acoustic guitars are more expensive than traditional guitars, they offer several advantages, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. For players who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar with a unique sound and feel, a fanned fret acoustic guitar may be worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fanned Fret Acoustic Guitars
Fanned fret acoustic guitars have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their unique design and potential benefits. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about fanned fret acoustic guitars:
Question 1: What are the benefits of fanned fret acoustic guitars?
Fanned fret acoustic guitars offer several benefits over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. The wider frets at the nut and narrower frets at the bridge help to improve intonation, especially on the higher frets. The shorter scale length makes the guitar easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands. Additionally, the fanned frets contribute to a more balanced and resonant tone.
Question 2: Are fanned fret acoustic guitars more difficult to play than traditional guitars?
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are not more difficult to play than traditional guitars. In fact, many players find them easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands. The wider frets at the nut make it easier to reach the frets and to form chords. Additionally, the shorter scale length makes it easier to reach the frets on the higher registers of the guitar.
Question 3: Are fanned fret acoustic guitars more expensive than traditional guitars?
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars due to the specialized materials and craftsmanship required to build them. However, they offer several advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. For players who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar with a unique sound and feel, a fanned fret acoustic guitar may be worth the investment.
Question 4: What types of music are fanned fret acoustic guitars suitable for?
Fanned fret acoustic guitars are suitable for a wide range of genres, from fingerstyle to strumming. Their improved intonation and playability make them a good choice for players who play in genres that require accurate intonation, such as classical and folk music. Their rich and full sound makes them a good choice for players who play in genres that require a rich and full sound, such as jazz and blues music.
Question 5: Are fanned fret acoustic guitars good for beginners?
Fanned fret acoustic guitars can be a good choice for beginners, especially for players with smaller hands or shorter arms. The wider frets and shorter scale length make them easier to play than traditional guitars. Additionally, the improved intonation can help beginne
rs to learn to play in tune more quickly.
Question 6: What are the disadvantages of fanned fret acoustic guitars?
One potential disadvantage of fanned fret acoustic guitars is that they can be more expensive than traditional guitars. Additionally, some players may find that the fanned frets take some time to get used to. However, for players who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar with a unique sound and feel, a fanned fret acoustic guitar may be worth the investment.
Overall, fanned fret acoustic guitars offer several advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. While they are typically more expensive than traditional guitars, they may be worth the investment for players who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar with a unique sound and feel.
Transition: For more information on fanned fret acoustic guitars, please consult with a guitar expert or visit a local music store.
Tips for Playing Fanned Fret Acoustic Guitars
Fanned fret acoustic guitars offer several advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. However, there are a few things that players should keep in mind when playing a fanned fret acoustic guitar for the first time.
Tip 1: Use a light touch.
The wider frets on a fanned fret acoustic guitar can make it easier to fret notes, but it is important to use a light touch to avoid buzzing. This is especially important on the higher frets, where the strings are more likely to buzz.
Tip 2: Be aware of the scale length.
The scale length of a fanned fret acoustic guitar is shorter than the scale length of a traditional guitar. This can make it easier to reach the frets, but it can also affect the sound of the guitar. Players should be aware of the scale length of their guitar and adjust their playing style accordingly.
Tip 3: Experiment with different string gauges.
The shorter scale length of a fanned fret acoustic guitar can make it more difficult to achieve a balanced sound across all of the strings. Experimenting with different string gauges can help to achieve a more balanced sound.
Tip 4: Use a wider strap.
The wider frets on a fanned fret acoustic guitar can make it more difficult to hold the guitar in a traditional position. Using a wider strap can help to distribute the weight of the guitar more evenly and make it more comfortable to play.
Tip 5: Find a qualified guitar technician.
Fanned fret acoustic guitars can be more difficult to set up than traditional guitars. It is important to find a qualified guitar technician who is experienced in setting up fanned fret acoustic guitars to ensure that the guitar is playing at its best.
By following these tips, players can get the most out of their fanned fret acoustic guitar.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Use a light touch to avoid buzzing.
- Be aware of the scale length and adjust your playing style accordingly.
- Experiment with different string gauges to achieve a more balanced sound.
- Use a wider strap to distribute the weight of the guitar more evenly.
- Find a qualified guitar technician to ensure that the guitar is playing at its best.
Conclusion:
Fanned fret acoustic guitars offer several advantages over traditional guitars, but it is important to be aware of the unique considerations when playing a fanned fret acoustic guitar. By following these tips, players can get the most out of their fanned fret acoustic guitar and enjoy its unique sound and feel.
Conclusion
Fanned fret acoustic guitars offer several advantages over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, playability, and tone. The wider frets at the nut and narrower frets at the bridge help to improve intonation, especially on the higher frets. The shorter scale length makes the guitar easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands. Additionally, the fanned frets contribute to a more balanced and resonant tone.
While fanned fret acoustic guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars, they may be worth the investment for players who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar with a unique sound and feel. Players who are considering purchasing a fanned fret acoustic guitar should take the time to try out different models and find one that suits their playing style and needs.
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