In volume 3 #6, we looked at the tone shaping impact of acoustic guitar tops. In this issue we want to explore the implications of an instruments' scale length on playability and sound.

      A guitar's scale length is the distance between the bone nut or zero fret and the bridge's saddle. This measurement not only determines the placement of the frets for proper intonation, but has a profound effect on string tension, tone, and in some cases, tuning stability.

     The physics is fairly easy to grasp. If two guitars of different scale lengths (i.e. Fender and Gibson guitars) are strung with equal gauge strings and tuned to normal concert pitch, the shorter scale Gibson will have less tension , resulting in a "looser" feel. You can prove this to yourself by capoing any guitar at the first fret (effectively shorting the scale length) and then retuning down to concert pitch. The strings will now be under less tension, making them easier to bend and vibrato. You may also notice that the instrument now has more "buzzing" and "fret rattle" when played, because of the increased vibrating amplitude of the looser strings.

      While some electric guitarists use a shorter scale instrument to achieve less string tension and easier playability, others see it as an opportunity to get a "thicker" tone utilizing heavier gauge strings. For instance, take two identical electric guitar bodies, one fitted with a 25 1/2", and the other with a 24 3/4" scale neck. If you find your technique requires using .009 - .042 gauge strings on the longscale, you'll probably get the same feel utilizing a heavier .010 - .046 gauge on the short scale instrument, The heavier gauge strings will also have the side-effect of inducing more voltage in your pickups, resulting in a "thicker" fundamental note, and more output.

        Scale length also has sonic implications connected with acoustic instruments. A shorter scale acoustic guitar often produces a "woody" tone with an overall warm timbre, while a longer scale is perceived as having more power overall, with increased clarity and distinction in the bass registers. Both sounds are valid, and historically it is not without precedent for a manufacturer to issue two models of guitars whose main difference is scale length (i.e. Martin's 000 and OM models) or offer the same model with long or short scale as an option (Ramirez concert classicals).

        I'll leave you with a few examples showing the array of scale lengths utilized in popular guitars. Until our next news letter, adios amigos!!!