Acoustic guitars with narrow necks are designed to be more comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience.
Editor’s Note: Acoustic guitars with narrow necks are a great option for beginners, as they are easier to play than guitars with wider necks. They are also a good choice for players who have difficulty reaching the frets on a wider neck guitar.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you make the right decision about whether or not an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck is right for you.
Key Differences Between Acoustic Guitars with Narrow Necks and Wider Necks
| Feature | Narrow Neck | Wide Neck |
|---|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.6875″ or less | 1.75″ or more |
| String Spacing | Narrower | Wider |
| Fretboard Radius | Typically flatter | Typically more curved |
| Playability | Easier to play for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience | More difficult to play for players with larger hands or those who prefer a wider playing surface |
Benefits of Acoustic Guitars with Narrow Necks
- More comfortable to play for players with smaller hands
- Easier to reach the frets
- Can help to improve fingerpicking accuracy
- Can be less fatiguing to play for long periods of time
Drawbacks of Acoustic Guitars with Narrow Necks
- Can be more difficult to play for players with larger hands
- May not provide as much volume or sustain as guitars with wider necks
- Can be more difficult to find in stores
Conclusion
Whether or not an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have smaller hands or prefer a more intimate playing experience, then a narrow neck guitar may be a good option for you. However, if you have larger hands or prefer a wider playing surface, then a wider neck guitar may be a better choice.
1. Nut width
The nut width is the distance between the innermost edges of the two outermost strings on the nut. On a narrow neck guitar, the nut width is typically 1.6875″ or less. This makes the strings easier to reach and fret, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience.
- Components: The nut is a small piece of bone, plastic, or metal that is located at the top of the neck. It serves two purposes: to hold the strings in place and to provide a smooth surface for the strings to slide across. On a narrow neck guitar, the nut is typically narrower than on a wider neck guitar.
- Examples: Some popular narrow neck guitars include the Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m. These guitars are known for their playability and comfort, making them ideal for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience.
- Implications: The nut width on a narrow neck guitar can have a significant impact on the playability of the guitar. A narrower nut width makes the strings easier to reach and fret, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. However, a narrower nut width can also make it more difficult to play certain chords and techniques, such as barre chords.
Overall, the nut width on a narrow neck guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. Players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience may find that a narrow neck guitar is more comfortable and easier to play.
2. String spacing
The string spacing on a narrow neck guitar is narrower than on a wider neck guitar. This means that the distance between the strings is smaller, making it easier to reach and fret the strings. This can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience.
The string spacing on a guitar is determined by the width of the nut and the width of the fretboard. On a narrow neck guitar, the nut width is typically 1.6875″ or less, and the fretboard width is typically narrower than on a wider neck guitar. This results in a narrower string spacing, which can make the guitar easier to play for players with smaller hands.
There are several benefits to having a narrower string spacing on a guitar. First, it can make the guitar easier to play for players with smaller hands. Second, it can make it easier to reach and fret the strings, which can be beneficial for players of all hand sizes. Third, it can help to improve fingerpicking accuracy. Finally, it can be less fatiguing to play a guitar with a narrower string spacing for long periods of time.
However, there are also some drawbacks to having a narrower string spacing on a guitar. First, it can make it more difficult to play certain chords and techniques, such as barre chords. Second, it can make the guitar more susceptible to buzzing. Third, it can make it more difficult to play fast passages.
Overall, the string spacing on a guitar is a matter of personal preference. Players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience may find that a guitar with a narrower string spacing is more comfortable and easier to play. However, players who prefer to play certain chords and techniques, such as barre chords, may find that a guitar with a wider string spacing is a better choice.
Table: String Spacing on Narrow Neck Guitars
| Guitar Model | Nut Width | String Spacing at the Nut | String Spacing at the 12th Fret |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taylor 314ce | 1.6875″ | 1.125″ | 1.75″ |
| Martin 000-15m | 1.6875″ | 1.125″ | 1.75″ |
| Gibson J-45 Standard | 1.75″ | 1.25″ | 2.00″ |
| Fender CD-60S | 1.69″ | 1.125″ | 1.75″ |
| Yamaha FG800 | 1.70″ | 1.125″ | 1.75″ |
3. Fretboard radius
The fretboard radius is the curvature of the fretboard from side to side. A flatter fretboard radius means that the fretboard is
less curved, while a larger fretboard radius means that the fretboard is more curved.
- Component: The fretboard radius is determined by the shape of the fretboard and the way that the frets are installed. On a narrow neck guitar, the fretboard is typically flatter than on a wider neck guitar. This is because a flatter fretboard makes it easier to reach and fret the strings, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience.
- Example: Some popular narrow neck guitars with flatter fretboards include the Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m.
- Implication: The fretboard radius on a narrow neck guitar can have a significant impact on the playability of the guitar. A flatter fretboard radius makes the strings easier to reach and fret, which can be beneficial for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. However, a flatter fretboard radius can also make it more difficult to play certain chords and techniques, such as barre chords.
Overall, the fretboard radius on a narrow neck guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. Players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience may find that a guitar with a flatter fretboard radius is more comfortable and easier to play.
4. Playability
The playability of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. Narrow neck guitars are easier to play for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. This is because the narrower neck makes it easier to reach and fret the strings.
There are several benefits to playing a guitar with a narrow neck. First, it can make it easier to learn to play guitar. This is because the narrower neck makes it easier to form chords and to reach the strings. Second, a narrow neck guitar can be more comfortable to play for extended periods of time. This is because the narrower neck puts less strain on the hand and wrist.
Of course, there are also some drawbacks to playing a guitar with a narrow neck. First, it can make it more difficult to play certain chords and techniques, such as barre chords. Second, a narrow neck guitar may not produce as much volume as a guitar with a wider neck. However, for many players, the benefits of playing a narrow neck guitar outweigh the drawbacks.
If you are considering buying a guitar, it is important to try out different guitars with different neck widths to see what feels most comfortable for you. If you have smaller hands or prefer a more intimate playing experience, then a narrow neck guitar may be a good option for you.
| Advantages of Narrow Neck Guitars | Disadvantages of Narrow Neck Guitars |
|---|---|
| Easier to reach and fret the strings | More difficult to play certain chords and techniques |
| More comfortable to play for extended periods of time | May not produce as much volume as guitars with wider necks |
5. Comfort
One of the key benefits of acoustic guitars with narrow necks is their comfort. The narrower neck makes it easier to reach and fret the strings, which can be less fatiguing for the hand and wrist, especially during extended playing sessions.
For players with smaller hands, a narrow neck guitar can make a significant difference in their playing experience. It can be difficult for players with smaller hands to reach and fret the strings on a wider neck guitar, which can lead to discomfort and even pain. A narrow neck guitar can help to alleviate these issues, making it easier for players with smaller hands to play guitar comfortably for longer periods of time.
In addition to players with smaller hands, players who prefer a more intimate playing experience may also prefer a narrow neck guitar. A narrow neck guitar can make it easier to get close to the strings, which can be beneficial for fingerpicking and other techniques that require a light touch.
Overall, the comfort of narrow neck guitars is a significant benefit for players of all levels. Whether you have smaller hands or simply prefer a more intimate playing experience, a narrow neck guitar can make playing guitar more enjoyable and comfortable.
| Advantages of Narrow Neck Guitars | Disadvantages of Narrow Neck Guitars |
|---|---|
| Easier to reach and fret the strings | More difficult to play certain chords and techniques |
| More comfortable to play for extended periods of time | May not produce as much volume as guitars with wider necks |
6. Volume
The volume of an acoustic guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the size and shape of the body, the type of wood used, and the thickness of the top. Narrow neck guitars typically have smaller bodies and thinner tops than wider neck guitars, which can result in less volume. However, there are a number of other factors that can affect the volume of a guitar, and it is not always the case that narrow neck guitars will produce less volume than wider neck guitars.
One of the most important factors that affects the volume of an acoustic guitar is the size and shape of the body. Larger bodies produce more volume than smaller bodies, and bodies with a more pronounced waist produce more volume than bodies with a less pronounced waist. This is because the larger body and more pronounced waist allow for more air to vibrate, which results in more volume.
The type of wood used also affects the volume of an acoustic guitar. Harder woods, such as mahogany and rosewood, produce more volume than softer woods, such as spruce and cedar. This is because harder woods are more dense, which allows them to vibrate more efficiently.
The thickness of the top also affects the volume of an acoustic guitar. Thicker tops produce less volume than thinner tops. This is because thicker tops are more rigid, which makes it more difficult for them to vibrate.
In general, narrow neck guitars have smaller bodies, thinner tops, and are made from softer woods than wider neck guitars. These factors can all contribute to a reduction in volume. However, it is important to note that the volume of a guitar is not solely determined by the width of the neck. Other factors, such as the size and shape of the body, the type of wood used, and the thickness of the top, also play a significant role.
7. Sustain
Sustain is the length of time that a note continues to ring out after it has been played. In general, narrow neck guitars do not sustain as long as wider neck guitars. This is because the narrower neck allows the strings to vibrate more freely, which results in a shorter sustain.
- String tension: The tension of the strings is one of the most important facto
rs that affects sustain. Higher string tension results in longer sustain. Narrow neck guitars typically have lower string tension than wider neck guitars, which contributes to their shorter sustain. - Body mass: The mass of the guitar’s body also affects sustain. Heavier bodies produce longer sustain. Narrow neck guitars typically have lighter bodies than wider neck guitars, which contributes to their shorter sustain.
- Neck stiffness: The stiffness of the guitar’s neck also affects sustain. Stiffer necks produce longer sustain. Narrow neck guitars typically have less stiff necks than wider neck guitars, which contributes to their shorter sustain.
- Playing style: The way that you play the guitar can also affect sustain. Lighter picking and fingering techniques will result in shorter sustain, while heavier picking and fingering techniques will result in longer sustain.
Overall, the sustain of an acoustic guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the width of the neck, the tension of the strings, the mass of the body, the stiffness of the neck, and the playing style. By understanding these factors, you can choose a guitar that has the sustain that you are looking for.
8. Availability
The availability of narrow neck guitars in stores can vary depending on a number of factors, including the popularity of the guitar model, the size of the store, and the location of the store. In general, narrow neck guitars are not as common as wider neck guitars, so they may be more difficult to find in stores. However, there are a number of ways to find a narrow neck guitar in a store, including:
- Ask a: The staff at a guitar store should be able to help you find a narrow neck guitar if they have one in stock. Even if they don’t have a narrow neck guitar in stock, they may be able to order one for you.
- Check online: Many guitar stores have websites where you can browse their inventory and order guitars online. This can be a good way to find a narrow neck guitar that is not available in stores in your area.
- Visit a specialty guitar store: Specialty guitar stores typically have a wider selection of guitars than general music stores. This makes them a good place to find a narrow neck guitar, especially if you are looking for a specific model or brand.
If you are having trouble finding a narrow neck guitar in stores, you can also consider buying one online. There are a number of reputable online guitar retailers that sell narrow neck guitars. When buying a guitar online, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are buying from a reputable dealer.
9. Price
The price of an acoustic guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the quality of the materials used, the craftsmanship, the brand name, and the popularity of the model. Narrow neck guitars are typically more expensive than wider neck guitars because they require more specialized materials and craftsmanship.
- Materials: Narrow neck guitars typically use higher quality materials than wider neck guitars. This is because the narrower neck requires a stronger and more stable construction to prevent warping and bending. The higher quality materials used in narrow neck guitars contribute to their higher price.
- Craftsmanship: Narrow neck guitars require more specialized craftsmanship than wider neck guitars. This is because the narrower neck is more difficult to build and requires more precision. The specialized craftsmanship required for narrow neck guitars contributes to their higher price.
- Brand name: Narrow neck guitars are often made by smaller, boutique brands. These brands typically charge more for their guitars because they use higher quality materials and craftsmanship. The brand name of a narrow neck guitar can also contribute to its higher price.
- Popularity: Narrow neck guitars are not as popular as wider neck guitars. This is because they are not as well-suited for all playing styles. The lower popularity of narrow neck guitars can contribute to their higher price.
Overall, the price of a narrow neck guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the quality of the materials used, the craftsmanship, the brand name, and the popularity of the model. Narrow neck guitars are typically more expensive than wider neck guitars because they require more specialized materials and craftsmanship.
10. Brands
The brands Taylor, Martin, and Gibson are well-known and respected in the guitar industry. These brands have a long history of making high-quality guitars, and they are known for their attention to detail and craftsmanship. When it comes to narrow neck guitars, these brands offer some of the best options on the market.
Taylor guitars are known for their bright and balanced sound. The company’s narrow neck guitars are a popular choice for fingerstyle players and other players who prefer a more intimate playing experience. Martin guitars are known for their warm and rich sound. The company’s narrow neck guitars are a popular choice for bluegrass and folk players. Gibson guitars are known for their powerful and resonant sound. The company’s narrow neck guitars are a popular choice for rock and blues players.
If you are looking for a narrow neck guitar, then you should definitely consider guitars from Taylor, Martin, and Gibson. These brands offer a wide range of narrow neck guitars to choose from, and they are sure to have a guitar that is perfect for your needs.
Table: Popular Brands of Narrow Neck Guitars
| Brand | Known For | Popular Narrow Neck Models |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor | Bright and balanced sound | 314ce, 324ce, 414ce |
| Martin | Warm and rich sound | 000-15m, 000-28m, D-15m |
| Gibson | Powerful and resonant sound | J-15m, J-45m, L-00m |
11. Models
The Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m are two of the most popular models of narrow neck guitars on the market. These guitars are known for their playability, comfort, and sound quality. The Taylor 314ce is a popular choice for fingerstyle players, while the Martin 000-15m is a popular choice for bluegrass and folk players.
The narrow neck on these guitars makes them easier to play for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. The narrower neck also makes it easier to reach the frets, which can be beneficial for players of all levels.
In addition to their playability and comfort, the Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m are also known for their sound quality. The Taylor 314ce has a bright and balanced sound, while the Martin 000-15m has a warm and rich sound. Both guitars are well-suited for a variety of musical genres.
Overall, the Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m are two of the best narrow neck guitars on the market. These guitars are well-made, sound great, and are easy to play. If you are looking for a narrow neck guitar, then either of these guitars would be a great choice.
Table: Comparison of the Taylor 314ce and the Martin 000-15m
| Feature | Taylor 314ce | Martin 000-15m |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Grand Auditorium | 000 |
| Top Wood | Sitka Spruce | Mahogany |
| Back and Sides Wood | Sapele | Mahogany |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard Wood | Ebony | Richlite |
| Nut Width | 1.6875″ | 1.6875″ |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ | 24.875″ |
| Electronics | ES2 | Fishman Sonitone |
| Price | $1,499 | $1,699 |
FAQs about Acoustic Guitars with Narrow Necks
Acoustic guitars with narrow necks are designed to be more comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. They are also a good choice for players who have difficulty reaching the frets on a wider neck guitar.
Question 1: What are the benefits of acoustic guitars with narrow necks?
Acoustic guitars with narrow necks offer several benefits, including:
- Easier to play for players with smaller hands
- Easier to reach the frets
- Can help to improve fingerpicking accuracy
- Can be less fatiguing to play for long periods of time
Question 2: What are the drawbacks of acoustic guitars with narrow necks?
Acoustic guitars with narrow necks also have some drawbacks, including:
- Can be more difficult to play for players with larger hands
- May not provide as much volume or sustain as guitars with wider necks
- Can be more difficult to find in stores
Question 3: What should I consider when choosing an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck?
When choosing an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Your hand size
- Your playing style
- The type of music you play
- Your budget
Question 4: What are some popular brands of acoustic guitars with narrow necks?
Some popular brands of acoustic guitars with narrow necks include:
- Taylor
- Martin
- Gibson
- Fender
- Yamaha
Question 5: What are some popular models of acoustic guitars with narrow necks?
Some popular models of acoustic guitars with narrow necks include:
- Taylor 314ce
- Martin 000-15m
- Gibson J-15m
- Fender CD-60S
- Yamaha FG800
Question 6: Where can I buy an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck?
You can buy an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck at a variety of music stores, both online and in person. Some popular places to buy acoustic guitars with narrow necks include:
- Guitar Center
- Sam Ash Music
- Sweetwater
- Amazon
- Reverb
We hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Summary: Acoustic guitars with narrow necks can be a great choice for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. However, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of narrow neck guitars before making a purchase. When choosing an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck, be sure to consider your hand size, playing style, the type of music you play, and your budget.
Next: Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar for Your Needs
Tips for Choosing an Acoustic Guitar with a Narrow Neck
Choosing the right acoustic guitar for your needs can be a daunting task. There are many different factors to consider, including the size, shape, and type of wood used. If you have smaller hands or prefer a more intimate playing experience, then an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck may be a good option for you.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right acoustic guitar with a narrow neck:
Tip 1: Measure your hand size. The best way to determine if an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck is right for you is to measure your hand size. To do this, simply measure the distance from the tip of your thumb to the tip of your middle finger. If your hand size is less than 7 inches, then an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck may be a good option for you.
Tip 2: Consider your playing style. If you are a fingerstyle player or prefer a more intimate playing experience, then an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck may be a good option for you. The narrower neck will make it easier to reach the frets and play complex fingerpicking patterns.
Tip 3: Try out different guitars. The best way to find the right acoustic guitar for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels most comfortable. Be sure to try out guitars with different neck widths and shapes to see what works best for you.
Tip 4: Consider the type of music you play. If you play a lot of strumming or flatpicking, then you may want to choose an acoustic guitar with a wider neck. A wider neck will provide more stability and volume for strumming and flatpicking.
Tip 5: Set a budget. Acoustic guitars with narrow necks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.
By following these tips, you can choose the right acoustic guitar with a narrow neck for your needs.
Summary: Choosing an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck can be a great way to improve your playing experience. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and playing style.
Conclusion
Acoustic guitars with narrow necks are an excellent option for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. They are easier to play, more comfortable, and can help to improve fingerpicking accuracy. While they may not produce as much volume or sustain as guitars with wider necks, narrow neck guitars are a great choice for a variety of musical styles.
When choosing an acoustic guitar with a narrow neck, be sure to consider your hand size, playing style, the type of music you play, and your budget. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and playing style.
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