Have you heard of fanned fret 6 string guitars? They’re a relatively new type of guitar that’s gaining popularity among players of all levels.
Editor’s Note:Fanned fret 6 string guitars are an innovative design that offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes these guitars so special and how they can benefit your playing.
We’ve done the research and digging, and put together this guide to help you make the right decision about whether or not a fanned fret 6 string guitar is right for you.
Key Differences:
| Fanned Fret 6 String Guitar | Traditional Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| String Length: | Strings are longer on the bass side and shorter on the treble side | Strings are all the same length |
| Frets: | Fanned out, with the frets closer together on the bass side and farther apart on the treble side | Parallel, with the frets evenly spaced |
| Tonal Balance: | Improved tonal balance, with each string having a more even response | Less tonal balance, with the bass strings often sounding muddy and the treble strings sounding shrill |
| Playability: | Improved playability, especially for players with small hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers | Less playability, especially for players with large hands or who prefer to play in the lower registers |
Main Article Topics:
- What are the benefits of fanned fret 6 string guitars?
- Who are fanned fret 6 string guitars best suited for?
- How to choose the right fanned fret 6 string guitar for you
- Tips for playing fanned fret 6 string guitars
1. Improved intonation
The fanned frets on a 6 string guitar allow for more precise intonation, especially on the lower strings. This is because the frets are angled in such a way that the string length is longer on the bass side of the guitar and shorter on the treble side. This results in a more even distribution of tension across the strings, which in turn leads to better intonation.
- Facet 1: Improved intonation on the lower strings
The longer scale length on the bass side of the guitar gives the lower strings a fuller, richer sound. This is because the longer string length allows for more vibration, which results in a deeper, more resonant tone. Additionally, the fanned frets help to improve the intonation on the lower strings, making them more accurate and in tune.
- Facet 2: Reduced string tension
The fanned frets on a 6 string guitar also reduce the tension on the strings. This is because the shorter scale length on the treble side of the guitar means that the strings are under less tension. This makes the guitar easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers.
- Facet 3: Enhanced playability
The reduced string tension and improved intonation on a fanned fret 6 string guitar make it easier to play. This is especially beneficial for players who play fast, intricate passages or who use a lot of bends and vibratos. Additionally, the fanned frets make it easier to reach the higher frets, making it a good choice for players with smaller hands.
- Facet 4: Unique aesthetics
Fanned fret guitars have a distinctive look that sets them apart from traditional guitars. This is due to the angled frets and the longer scale length on the bass side of the guitar. Some players find the fanned fret design to be more aesthetically pleasing than traditional guitars.
Overall, the improved intonation, reduced string tension, enhanced playability, and unique aesthetics of fanned fret 6 string guitars make them a good choice for a wide range of players. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a fanned fret guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
2. Increased tonal balance
The fanned frets on a 6 string guitar contribute to its increased tonal balance by allowing for a longer scale length on the bass strings and a shorter scale length on the treble strings. This results in a more even distribution of tension across the strings, which in turn leads to a more balanced sound.
- Facet 1: Improved bass response
The longer scale length on the bass strings gives them a fuller, richer sound. This is because the longer string length allows for more vibration, which results in a deeper, more resonant tone. Additionally, the fanned frets help to improve the intonation on the lower strings, making them more accurate and in tune.
- Facet 2: Enhanced treble clarity
The shorter scale length on the treble strings gives them a brighter, more articulate sound. This is because the shorter string length results in less tension on the strings, which allows them to vibrate more freely. Additionally, the fanned frets help to improve the intonation on the higher strings, making them more accurate and in tune.
- Facet 3: Balanced string tension
The fanned frets on a 6 string guitar also help to balance the tension across the strings. This is because the longer scale length on the bass strings and the shorter scale length on the treble strings results in a more even distribution of tension. This makes the guitar easier to play, especially for players with smaller hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers.
- Facet 4: Wider tonal range
The increased tonal balance of a fanned fret 6 string guitar gives players access to a wider range of tones. This is because the guitar is able to produce both deep, resonant bass tones and bright, articulate treble tones. This makes it a versatile instrument that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
Overall, the increased tonal balance of a fanned fret 6 string guitar makes it a great choice for players who are looking for a versatile instrument with a wide range of tones. Whether you’re playing rock, blues, jazz, or country, a fanned fret guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
3. Enhanced playability
The enhanced playability of fanned fret 6 string guitars is a key factor in their growing
popularity. The fanned frets make it easier to reach the higher frets, which is especially beneficial for players with smaller hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers. Additionally, the shorter scale length on the treble strings makes it easier to play fast, intricate passages.
There are several reasons why the fanned frets make it easier to reach the higher frets. First, the angled frets allow for a more natural hand position, which reduces strain on the wrist and forearm. Second, the shorter scale length on the treble strings means that the frets are closer together, which makes it easier to reach the higher frets with the left hand.
The shorter scale length on the treble strings also makes it easier to play fast, intricate passages. This is because the shorter scale length reduces the tension on the strings, which makes them easier to bend and vibrato. Additionally, the shorter scale length makes it easier to play fast picking patterns.
The enhanced playability of fanned fret 6 string guitars makes them a good choice for a wide range of players. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a fanned fret guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
| Traditional 6 String Guitar | Fanned Fret 6 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Fret Spacing | Evenly spaced | Fanned out, with the frets closer together on the bass side and farther apart on the treble side |
| Scale Length | Same scale length for all strings | Shorter scale length on the treble strings and longer scale length on the bass strings |
| Playability | Less playable, especially for players with small hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers | Improved playability, especially for players with small hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers |
4. Reduced string tension
Fanned fret 6 string guitars have reduced string tension compared to traditional guitars. This is because the fanned frets allow for a longer scale length on the bass strings and a shorter scale length on the treble strings. The shorter scale length on the treble strings results in less tension on the strings, which makes them easier to bend and vibrato.
- Easier bending: The reduced string tension on a fanned fret 6 string guitar makes it easier to bend the strings. This is especially beneficial for players who use a lot of bends in their playing, such as blues and rock guitarists.
- Improved vibrato: The reduced string tension also makes it easier to vibrato on a fanned fret 6 string guitar. This is because the strings are more responsive to vibrato, which allows for a wider range of vibrato techniques.
- Enhanced playability: The reduced string tension on a fanned fret 6 string guitar makes it easier to play overall. This is because the strings are easier to bend and vibrato, which makes it easier to play fast, intricate passages and to achieve a wider range of tones.
Overall, the reduced string tension on a fanned fret 6 string guitar is a major benefit for players who want to improve their bending and vibrato techniques. It also makes the guitar easier to play overall, which can lead to improved speed and accuracy.
5. Improved ergonomics
Fanned fret 6 string guitars offer improved ergonomics compared to traditional guitars, making them more comfortable to play for players of all sizes. The fanned frets allow for a more natural hand position, which reduces strain on the wrist and forearm. Additionally, the shorter scale length on the treble strings makes it easier to reach the higher frets.
- Facet 1: Reduced wrist strain
The angled frets on a fanned fret 6 string guitar allow for a more natural hand position, which reduces strain on the wrist and forearm. This is especially beneficial for players who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
- Facet 2: Easier access to higher frets
The shorter scale length on the treble strings of a fanned fret 6 string guitar makes it easier to reach the higher frets. This is especially beneficial for players with small hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers.
- Facet 3: Improved posture
The fanned frets and shorter scale length on a fanned fret 6 string guitar can help to improve posture. This is because the guitar is more comfortable to hold and play, which reduces the risk of developing neck and back pain.
- Facet 4: Increased playing comfort
Overall, the improved ergonomics of fanned fret 6 string guitars make them more comfortable to play for players of all sizes. This can lead to improved speed, accuracy, and endurance.
Overall, the improved ergonomics of fanned fret 6 string guitars make them a good choice for players who want to improve their playing comfort and avoid strain injuries.
6. Unique aesthetics
Fanned fret guitars have a distinctive look that sets them apart from traditional guitars. This is due to the angled frets and the longer scale length on the bass side of the guitar. Some players find the fanned fret design to be more aesthetically pleasing than traditional guitars.
The unique aesthetics of fanned fret guitars can be a major selling point for some players. For example, some players may prefer the look of a fanned fret guitar because it is more modern and unique. Additionally, some players may find that the fanned fret design is more visually appealing than the traditional parallel fret design.
It is important to note that the unique aesthetics of fanned fret guitars are not just a matter of personal preference. The fanned fret design can also have a real impact on the sound and playability of the guitar. For example, the longer scale length on the bass side of the guitar can give the lower strings a fuller, richer sound. Additionally, the fanned frets can make it easier to reach the higher frets, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands.
Overall, the unique aesthetics of fanned fret guitars are a major factor that sets them apart from traditional guitars. While some players may prefer the look of a traditional guitar, others may find that the fanned fret design is more visually appealing and offers a number of practical benefits.
Key Insights:
- The fanned fret design gives guitars a distinctive look that sets them apart from traditional guitars.
- Some players find the fanned fret design to be more aesthetically pleasing than traditional guitars.
- The fanned fret design can also have a real impact on the sound and playability of the guitar.
FAQs about Fanned Fret 6 String Guitars
Fanned fret 6 string guitars have gained popularity among many musicians because of their unique design and tonal qualities. However, there are also some common questions and misconceptions about these guitars. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently as
ked questions about fanned fret 6 string guitars:
7. Question 1: What are the benefits of fanned fret 6 string guitars?
Fanned fret 6 string guitars offer several benefits over traditional guitars, including improved intonation, increased tonal balance, enhanced playability, reduced string tension, improved ergonomics, and unique aesthetics.
8. Question 2: Who are fanned fret 6 string guitars best suited for?
Fanned fret 6 string guitars are well-suited for a wide range of players, including beginners, experienced players, and professional musicians. They are especially beneficial for players with smaller hands or who prefer to play in the upper registers.
9. Question 3: How do I choose the right fanned fret 6 string guitar?
When choosing a fanned fret 6 string guitar, there are several factors to consider, such as the scale length, the fretboard radius, the body size, and the pickup configuration. It is important to try out different guitars to find one that feels comfortable to play and sounds good to your ears.
10. Question 4: What are some tips for playing fanned fret 6 string guitars?
Here are a few tips for playing fanned fret 6 string guitars:
- Use a light touch when fretting the strings.
- Be aware of the different string tensions and adjust your picking and strumming accordingly.
- Experiment with different picking patterns to find what works best for you.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and have fun!
11. Question 5: What are the most popular brands of fanned fret 6 string guitars?
Some of the most popular brands of fanned fret 6 string guitars include Strandberg, Aristides, Kiesel, and Mayones.
12. Question 6: Are fanned fret 6 string guitars more expensive than traditional guitars?
Yes, fanned fret 6 string guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars. This is because they are more difficult to build and require specialized materials.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Fanned fret 6 string guitars offer several benefits over traditional guitars.
- They are well-suited for a wide range of players, including beginners, experienced players, and professional musicians.
- There are several factors to consider when choosing a fanned fret 6 string guitar, such as the scale length, the fretboard radius, the body size, and the pickup configuration.
- There are several tips for playing fanned fret 6 string guitars, such as using a light touch when fretting the strings and being aware of the different string tensions.
- Some of the most popular brands of fanned fret 6 string guitars include Strandberg, Aristides, Kiesel, and Mayones.
- Fanned fret 6 string guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars.
Transition to the Next Article Section:
Now that you know more about fanned fret 6 string guitars, you can decide if one is right for you. If you are looking for a guitar that offers improved intonation, increased tonal balance, enhanced playability, and unique aesthetics, then a fanned fret 6 string guitar may be the perfect choice for you.
Tips for Playing Fanned Fret 6 String Guitars
Fanned fret 6 string guitars offer a unique playing experience, but they can take some getting used to. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your fanned fret guitar:
Tip 1: Use a light touch when fretting the strings.
The shorter scale length on the treble strings of a fanned fret guitar means that the strings are under less tension. This makes it important to use a light touch when fretting the strings, or you may accidentally bend them out of tune.
Tip 2: Be aware of the different string tensions.
The different scale lengths on a fanned fret guitar mean that the strings have different tensions. The bass strings will have more tension than the treble strings. This can affect your picking and strumming, so it’s important to be aware of the different tensions and adjust your technique accordingly.
Tip 3: Experiment with different picking patterns.
The different string tensions on a fanned fret guitar can also affect your picking patterns. You may find that some picking patterns that you use on a traditional guitar don’t work as well on a fanned fret guitar. Experiment with different picking patterns to find what works best for you.
Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Playing a fanned fret guitar is a learning process. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and experiment with different techniques. The more you play, the more comfortable you will become with the guitar and the better you will sound.
Tip 5: Have fun!
Playing guitar is supposed to be enjoyable. So relax, have fun, and experiment with your fanned fret guitar. You may be surprised at the unique sounds and tones that you can create.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Use a light touch when fretting the strings.
- Be aware of the different string tensions.
- Experiment with different picking patterns.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
- Have fun!
Transition to the Article’s Conclusion:
Fanned fret 6 string guitars can be a great choice for players of all levels. They offer a unique playing experience and a wide range of tonal possibilities. If you’re looking for a guitar that will help you take your playing to the next level, a fanned fret guitar is definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
Fanned fret 6 string guitars are a relatively new type of guitar that offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars. They offer improved intonation, increased tonal balance, enhanced playability, reduced string tension, improved ergonomics, and unique aesthetics. As a result, they are well-suited for a wide range of players, including beginners, experienced players, and professional musicians.
If you are looking for a guitar that offers a unique playing experience and a wide range of tonal possibilities, then a fanned fret 6 string guitar is definitely worth considering. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, a fanned fret guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
