Guitar scale length

Subject: Guitar scale length
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Feb 05 - 02:51 PM

No-one much got very excited about 12 string neck sizes, so let's try this.

Do we think there is a characteristic difference in sound and/or tuning stability in long-scale (25 1/2 inch) guitars and shorts (24 7/8)?

What about the huge 26 1/4 ones like my Morris? Maybe I should put 13s on and tune to D or E flat?

Subject: RE: Guitar scale length
From: Mark Ross
Date: 08 Feb 05 - 04:22 PM

If the scale is that long put a heavy set on, at least a .65 for the low string, .014 for the 1st, and tune it down to B or Bflat


Mark Ross

Subject: RE: Guitar scale length
From: Mooh
Date: 08 Feb 05 - 04:44 PM

I use heavy guage D'Addario strings on my 27" scale and tune down to C# or other tunings moved down the equivalent degree. Capo up for standard if necessary. I like low tunings.

Peace, Mooh.

Subject: RE: Guitar scale length
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Feb 05 - 06:10 PM

Interesting.

Standard ratio sets with a bottom of 65 are rare in the UK. Indeed I have trouble getting coated 13-58s that I want for one particular guitar. Sources?

And what aboutthe primary issue of stability versus scale length?

Subject: RE: Guitar scale length
From: Jim Tailor
Date: 08 Feb 05 - 06:45 PM

I have one of each scale length and have never noticed a difference in "stability" if by that you mean staying in tune.

A case can be made that a shorter scale length may have a bit more "wobble" in a fretted string, as it would be ever-so-slightly easier to bend than a long-scale guitar (string guage being equal). If that were the case, it might sound less in tune, but I doubt it.