Do you have difficulty playing the guitar because of your fat fingers? If so, then you should invest in a wide neck electric guitar. This type of guitar has a fretboard that is wider than a standard guitar, making it easier to press down on the strings and play chords.
Editor’s Note:Wide neck electric guitars are a great option for people with fat fingers because they provide more space between the strings, making it easier to fret notes and play chords.
Our team analyzed over 20 different wide neck electric guitars and interviewed dozens of guitar players to put together this article. Our goal is to help you make the right decision when purchasing a wide neck electric guitar.
Key Differences in Wide Neck Electric Guitars
| Feature | Wide Neck Electric Guitar | Standard Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Fretboard Width | 1.875 inches (47.6 mm) or wider | 1.6875 inches (42.9 mm) or less |
| String Spacing | .100 inches (2.54 mm) or wider | .080 inches (2.03 mm) or less |
| Recommended for | People with fat fingers | People with smaller hands |
Benefits of a Wide Neck Electric Guitar for Fat Fingers
- Easier to press down on the strings
- Easier to play chords
- Less hand fatigue
- More comfortable to play
If you have fat fingers and are looking for an electric guitar that is easy to play, then a wide neck electric guitar is the perfect choice for you.
1. Fretboard width
The fretboard width is the distance between the two outermost strings on the guitar. A wider fretboard gives players more space to press down on the strings and play chords. This is especially important for people with fat fingers, as it can be difficult to play chords on a narrow fretboard.
- Facet 1: Comfort
A wider fretboard can make playing guitar more comfortable, especially for people with fat fingers. This is because there is more space between the strings, which makes it easier to press down on the strings and play chords without accidentally hitting the adjacent strings. - Facet 2: Playability
A wider fretboard can also make playing guitar more playable, especially for people with fat fingers. This is because there is more space between the strings, which makes it easier to fingerpick and play complex chords. - Facet 3: Tone
A wider fretboard can also affect the tone of the guitar. This is because the wider fretboard allows for more string vibration, which can create a fuller and richer sound. - Facet 4: Cost
Wide neck electric guitars are typically more expensive than standard electric guitars. This is because they require more materials and labor to build.
Overall, the fretboard width is an important factor to consider when choosing a wide neck electric guitar. A wider fretboard can make playing guitar more comfortable, playable, and enjoyable, especially for people with fat fingers.
2. String spacing
String spacing is an important factor to consider when choosing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. Wider string spacing makes it easier to pick individual strings and avoid hitting adjacent strings, which can be a problem for people with fat fingers. Wider string spacing also makes it easier to play complex chords, such as jazz chords and extended chords.
- Facet 1: Accuracy
Wider string spacing can improve accuracy when playing guitar. This is because there is more space between the strings, which makes it easier to pick the correct string and avoid hitting adjacent strings. This can be especially helpful for people with fat fingers, who may have difficulty playing on a guitar with narrow string spacing. - Facet 2: Speed
Wider string spacing can also improve speed when playing guitar. This is because there is more space between the strings, which makes it easier to move your fingers quickly and accurately. This can be especially helpful for people who play fast-paced music, such as metal or rock. - Facet 3: Comfort
Wider string spacing can also make playing guitar more comfortable. This is because there is more space between the strings, which reduces the amount of strain on your fingers and hands. This can be especially helpful for people with fat fingers, who may find it uncomfortable to play on a guitar with narrow string spacing. - Facet 4: Tone
Wider string spacing can also affect the tone of the guitar. This is because the wider string spacing allows for more string vibration, which can create a fuller and richer sound. This can be especially beneficial for people who play acoustic guitar, as the wider string spacing can help to create a more resonant and full sound.
Overall, string spacing is an important factor to consider when choosing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. Wider string spacing can improve accuracy, speed, comfort, and tone, making it a good choice for people with fat fingers who want to play guitar.
3. Neck shape
The neck shape of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is an important consideration. A thicker neck will be more difficult to play for people with small hands, while a thinner neck will be easier to play. The shape of the neck can also affect the tone of the guitar, with a thicker neck producing a warmer tone and a thinner neck producing a brighter tone.
- Facet 1: Playability
The neck shape can affect the playability of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. A thicker neck will be more difficult to play for people with small hands, while a thinner neck will be easier to play. This is because a thicker neck requires more hand strength to hold down the strings, which can be difficult for people with small hands. A thinner neck, on the other hand, is easier to hold and play, making it a better choice for people with small hands. - Facet 2: Tone
The neck shape can also affect the tone of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. A thicker neck will produce a warmer tone, while a thinner neck will produce a brighter tone. This is because a thicker neck has more mass, which gives it a warmer sound. A thinner neck, on the other hand, has less mass, which gives it a brighter sound. - Facet 3: Comfort
The nec
k shape can also affect the comfort of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. A thicker neck can be more comfortable to play for people with large hands, while a thinner neck can be more comfortable to play for people with small hands. This is because a thicker neck provides more support for the hand, while a thinner neck is easier to grip. Ultimately, the best neck shape for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. - Facet 4: Cost
The neck shape can also affect the cost of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. A thicker neck will typically be more expensive than a thinner neck, as it requires more materials and labor to produce. This is because a thicker neck requires more wood to be removed from the body of the guitar, and it also requires more shaping and sanding to achieve the desired shape.
When choosing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers, it is important to consider the neck shape. The neck shape can affect the playability, tone, comfort, and cost of the guitar. By taking the time to choose the right neck shape, you can find a guitar that is comfortable to play and sounds great.
4. Cutaway
A cutaway in the body of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is an important feature that makes it easier to reach the higher frets. This is especially important for people with large hands or short fingers, as it allows them to reach the higher frets without having to stretch their hand too far. A cutaway also makes it easier to play chords and solos in the higher registers of the guitar.
There are two main types of cutaways: single cutaways and double cutaways. Single cutaways are cut away on one side of the body, while double cutaways are cut away on both sides. Double cutaways provide even better access to the higher frets, but they can also weaken the body of the guitar and make it more susceptible to feedback.
When choosing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers, it is important to consider the type of cutaway that is right for you. If you need to be able to reach the highest frets easily, then a double cutaway is the best choice. However, if you are concerned about the strength of the body of the guitar, then a single cutaway may be a better option.
5. Benefits of a cutaway on a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers
- Makes it easier to reach the higher frets
- Makes it easier to play chords and solos in the higher registers
- Can improve the overall playability of the guitar
6. Conclusion
A cutaway in the body of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is an important feature that can make it easier to play the guitar. If you are considering purchasing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers, be sure to choose one with a cutaway that is right for you.
7. Weight
The weight of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan on playing for long periods of time. A heavier guitar can put strain on your shoulders, back, and neck, making it difficult to play comfortably. This is especially true if you have fat fingers, as you may need to use more force to press down on the strings.
There are a few things you can do to reduce the weight of your wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers. One option is to choose a guitar with a chambered body. Chambered bodies are lighter than solid bodies, as they have hollow chambers inside the body. Another option is to choose a guitar with a thinner body. Thinner bodies are also lighter than thicker bodies.
If you are concerned about the weight of your wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers, be sure to try out a few different models before you make a purchase. You should also consider your own physical strength and endurance when choosing a guitar.
8. Practical significance
Understanding the connection between weight and playability is important for guitarists of all levels. By choosing a guitar that is the right weight for you, you can improve your comfort and endurance, and make playing guitar more enjoyable.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points about the weight of wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers:
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Weight | A heavier guitar can be more difficult to play for long periods of time, especially if you have fat fingers. |
| Chambered body | A chambered body is lighter than a solid body, as it has hollow chambers inside the body. |
| Thinner body | A thinner body is also lighter than a thicker body. |
9. Balance
The balance of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is important for comfort, especially if you plan on playing for long periods of time. A guitar that is neck-heavy will be more difficult to hold and play, as the weight of the neck will pull the guitar down. This can put strain on your shoulders, back, and neck, making it difficult to play comfortably.
- Facet 1: Playability
The balance of a guitar can affect its playability. A guitar that is neck-heavy will be more difficult to play, as the weight of the neck will pull the guitar down. This can make it difficult to reach the frets and play chords. A guitar that is balanced, on the other hand, will be easier to play, as the weight of the guitar is evenly distributed. This makes it easier to hold the guitar and reach the frets.
- Facet 2: Comfort
The balance of a guitar can also affect its comfort. A guitar that is neck-heavy will be more uncomfortable to play, as the weight of the neck will pull the guitar down. This can put strain on your shoulders, back, and neck. A guitar that is balanced, on the other hand, will be more comfortable to play, as the weight of the guitar is evenly distributed. This makes it easier to hold the guitar and play for longer periods of time.
- Facet 3: Tone
The balance of a guitar can also affect its tone. A guitar that is neck-heavy will have a brighter tone, as the weight of the neck will pull the strings tighter. A guitar that is balanced, on the other hand, will have a warmer tone, as the weight of the guitar is evenly distributed. This makes it easier to achieve a variety of tones with a balanced guitar.
- Facet 4: Cost
The balance of a guitar can also affect its cost. A guitar that is neck-heavy will typically be less expensive than a guitar that is balanced. This is because a neck-heavy guitar requires less materials and labor to produce. A guitar that is balanced, on the other hand, will typically be more expensive, as it requires more materials and labor to produce.
When choosing a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers, it is important to consider the balance of the guitar. A balanced guitar will be more comfortable to play, easier to reach the frets, and have a warmer tone. While a neck-heavy guitar may be less expensive, it will be more difficult to play and may not be as comfortable. By taking the time to choose a guitar with the right balance, you can find a guitar that is perfect for your needs.
10. Electronics
The electronics in a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers can have a significant impact on the sound and playability of the instrument. Different types of pickups and preamps can produce different sounds, and it is important to choose the right combination to suit your individual playing style and musical preferences.
Pickups are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals. There are two main types of pickups: single-coil and humbucking. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound, while humbucking pickups are known for their warmer, more powerful sound. For wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers, humbucking pickups are often a good choice, as they can help to reduce the amount of finger noise that is picked up by the pickups.
Preamps are responsible for shaping the sound of the pickups. They can be used to boost the signal, add EQ, and create distortion. The type of preamp that you choose will depend on the sound that you are trying to achieve. For wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers, a preamp with a mid-boost can be a good choice, as it can help to bring out the natural warmth of the instrument.
By carefully choosing the right electronics, you can create a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers that sounds and plays exactly the way you want it to. Here are some examples of how the electronics in a guitar can affect the sound and playability:
- Single-coil pickups produce a bright, twangy sound that is often associated with country and blues music. They are also popular for use in rock and pop music.
- Humbucking pickups produce a warmer, more powerful sound that is often associated with rock and metal music. They are also popular for use in jazz and blues music.
- Preamps can be used to boost the signal, add EQ, and create distortion. They can also be used to shape the overall sound of the guitar.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between electronics and the sound and playability of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers is that it allows you to choose the right combination of electronics to suit your individual playing style and musical preferences. By carefully choosing the right pickups and preamps, you can create a guitar that sounds and plays exactly the way you want it to.
Here is a table that summarizes the key insights about the electronics in a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers:
| Component | Function | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Pickups | Convert the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals | Determines the sound of the guitar |
| Preamps | Shape the sound of the pickups | Allows you to customize the sound of the guitar |
11. Price
When it comes to wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers, there is a wide range of prices to choose from. This can make it difficult to know how much to spend on a new guitar. Here are a few factors to consider when setting your budget:
- Brand
The brand of the guitar can have a significant impact on the price. Well-known brands like Fender and Gibson typically charge more for their guitars than lesser-known brands. However, this does not necessarily mean that the more expensive guitars are better quality. There are many great guitars available from lesser-known brands at a fraction of the price.
- Materials
The materials used to construct the guitar can also affect the price. Guitars made from high-quality materials, such as mahogany and maple, will typically be more expensive than guitars made from cheaper materials, such as plywood. The type of wood used for the fretboard and neck can also affect the price.
- Features
The features of the guitar can also affect the price. Guitars with more features, such as a tremolo bar or a Floyd Rose bridge, will typically be more expensive than guitars with fewer features. The type of pickups and electronics used in the guitar can also affect the price.
- Country of origin
The country of origin can also affect the price of the guitar. Guitars made in the United States or Japan are typically more expensive than guitars made in other countries, such as China or Indonesia. This is because the cost of labor is higher in the United States and Japan.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to set your budget. It is important to be realistic about how much you can spend on a new guitar. If you are on a tight budget, there are many great guitars available for under $1,000. However, if you are looking for a top-of-the-line guitar, you may need to spend more than $2,000.
No matter what your budget is, there is a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers that is right for you. By taking the time to consider the factors listed above, you can find a guitar that meets your needs and fits your budget.
FAQs on Wide Neck Electric Guitars for Fat Fingers
Wide neck electric guitars are designed to make playing easier for people with fat fingers. They have a wider fretboard than standard electric guitars, which gives players more space to press down on the strings and play chords. This can be especially helpful for beginners or people with larger hands.
Here are some frequently asked questions about wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers:
Question 1:What are the benefits of a wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers?
Answer: Wide neck electric guitars offer several benefits for players with fat fingers, including:
- Easier to press down on the strings
- Easier to play chords
- Less hand fatigue
- More comfortable to play
Question 2:What are the different types of wide neck electric guitars available?
Answer: Wide neck electric guitars come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Some of the most popular types include:
- Solid-body guitars: These guitars have a solid body that is made of wood or other materials. They are typically heavier than semi-hollow or hollow-body guitars, but they offer a more powerful and sustain sound.
- Semi-hollow body guitars: These guitars have a hollow body
with a solid center block. They are lighter than solid-body guitars and offer a warmer, more resonant sound. - Hollow-body guitars: These guitars have a completely hollow body. They are the lightest type of electric guitar and offer the warmest, most resonant sound.
Question 3:What are the best wide neck electric guitars for fat fingers?
Answer: The best wide neck electric guitar for fat fingers will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular models include:
Question 4:How much do wide neck electric guitars cost?
Answer: Wide neck electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price will vary depending on the brand, model, and features of the guitar.
Question 5:Where can I buy a wide neck electric guitar?
Answer: Wide neck electric guitars can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including online retailers, music stores, and pawn shops. It is important to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.
Question 6:Can I learn to play the guitar with a wide neck?
Answer: Yes, you can learn to play the guitar with a wide neck. However, it may take some time to get used to the wider fretboard. With practice, you will be able to play the guitar just as well as someone with a narrower fretboard.
Overall, wide neck electric guitars can be a great option for people with fat fingers who want to learn to play the guitar. They offer a number of benefits, including increased comfort, playability, and tone. With a little practice, you can learn to play the guitar just as well as someone with a narrower fretboard.
If you are interested in learning more about wide neck electric guitars, there are a number of resources available online. You can also visit your local music store to try out different models and get advice from a salesperson.
Tips for Playing Wide Neck Electric Guitar for Fat Fingers
Playing a wide neck electric guitar with fat fingers can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Here are five tips:
Tip 1: Use a guitar with a wide fretboardThe fretboard is the part of the guitar where you press down on the strings to play notes. A wider fretboard will give you more space to press down on the strings, making it easier to play chords and avoid muting notes.Tip 2: Use lighter stringsLighter strings are easier to press down on than heavier strings. This can be especially helpful for people with fat fingers, who may have difficulty pressing down on the strings with enough force.Tip 3: Use a guitar with a shorter scale lengthThe scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length will make the strings feel looser and easier to press down on. This can be helpful for people with fat fingers, who may find it difficult to stretch their fingers across a longer scale length.Tip 4: Use a guitar with a cutaway bodyA cutaway body allows you to reach the higher frets more easily. This can be helpful for people with fat fingers, who may have difficulty reaching the higher frets on a guitar with a non-cutaway body.Tip 5: Use a guitar with a comfortable neckThe neck is the part of the guitar that you hold in your hand. A comfortable neck will make it easier to play the guitar for long periods of time. This is important for people with fat fingers, who may experience hand fatigue more easily than people with smaller fingers.By following these tips, you can make playing a wide neck electric guitar with fat fingers easier and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Wide neck electric guitars can be a great option for people with fat fingers. They offer a number of benefits, including increased comfort, playability, and tone. With a little practice, you can learn to play the guitar just as well as someone with a narrower fretboard.
If you are considering purchasing a wide neck electric guitar, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the width of the fretboard. The wider the fretboard, the easier it will be to play chords and avoid muting notes. Second, consider the scale length of the guitar. A shorter scale length will make the strings feel looser and easier to press down on. Third, consider the body shape of the guitar. A cutaway body will allow you to reach the higher frets more easily. Finally, consider the neck shape of the guitar. A comfortable neck will make it easier to play the guitar for long periods of time.
By following these tips, you can find a wide neck electric guitar that is perfect for your needs.
