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1/1000ths of an inch
- Like guitar strings, frets are measured in 1/1000ths of an inch. And also like guitar strings, frets of different sizes are categorised by number. However, just as guitar strings are described as being either light or heavy, frets are also categorised by words that refer to their size. There are various manufacturers of fret wire.
www.stringsdirect.co.uk/blogs/blog/understanding-different-fret-sizes-why-they-matter-ef-bb-bf
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Anatomically, frets consist of a rounded “crown” (or “bead”) atop a thinner “tang” with barbs on either side as seen in cross-section. Individual frets are snipped to match the width of a guitar’s neck and hammered (lovingly tapped, more accurately) into slots pre-cut into the fingerboard.
- Jeff Owens
Aug 29, 2023 · Like guitar strings, frets are measured in 1/1000ths of an inch. And also like guitar strings, frets of different sizes are categorised by number. However, just as guitar strings are described as being either light or heavy, frets are also categorised by words that refer to their size.
- Why Fret Size Matters
- The Anatomy of A Fret
- Different Fret Sizes
- Fret Size & Tone
- Fret Size & Playability
- Further Considerations
- Putting It All Together
- Which Fret Size Is Right For You?
- Should You Consider A refret?
- Some Closing Thoughts
In my opinion, part of the reason that frets are not often discussed is because they are very much a fundamental part of your guitar. You can’t replace frets like you can a set of guitar strings. Equally, you can’t test out a new set of frets in the same way you can test out a new amp or guitar pedal. Yet as I will explain in much more detail below...
Before we look at different fret sizes, I think it is useful to quickly run through the anatomy of a fret. Firstly, it is important to note that when we talk about fret size, we are talking about the size of the fret wire. We are not talking about the space in between the fret wires (where you place your finger to play a note). That is related to t...
Like guitar strings, frets are measured in 1/1000ths of an inch. And also like guitar strings, frets of different sizes are categorised by number. However just as guitar strings are described as being either light or heavy, frets are also categorised by words that refer to their size. There are various manufacturers of fret wire. And each manufactu...
Understanding the type of frets that are popular, and the numbers that manufacturers use to categorise these frets is useful as a first step. But it isn’t information that you can really use practically. At this point then, we need to look at the impact that these different fret sizes have on your guitar. And as is often the case, there are two dif...
As a result, when looking at fret sizes, I think it is much more important to look at the impact that frets have on playability. You are always in contact with your frets – and they are vital in enabling you to create music. When it comes to playability, there are really two different factors that we need to consider; fret height and fret width. Le...
The pros and cons of fret height and width are not factors that you should consider independently. They interact with one another and so need to be considered together. For example, one of the drawbacks of tall frets is that there is an acute angle between the fretboard and the top of the fret. And this means that you can feel the frets under your ...
Having said that, fret size does have an impact on playability. And so even though there are a number of different and nuanced factors that affect the playability of your guitar, we can outline the characteristics of different fret sizes by looking at their height and width together. As such, let’s return to the 5 common fret sizes listed above, an...
At this stage you are probably wondering which fret sizes will work best for you. And with all of the different options and factors to consider, looking at different frets can feel like somewhat of an overwhelming task. Ultimately, fret size is largely a matter of personal preference. There is not a set or size of frets that will categorically impr...
If at this stage you have decided that the frets on your current guitar are not best suited for your playing style, then you might be considering a refret. However before you go out and change frets, I would recommend first thinking about your current situation and set-up. For although a refret might be a great idea, it could also be inappropriate....
Whether you are looking to change the frets on your current guitar, or you just want to pay closer attention to the frets on the next guitar you buy, I would always recommend going to a guitar store in person. Try out similar guitars with different fret sizes, and see what feels best. As noted at various points here, changing your frets is not a ha...
Sep 10, 2022 · You will often find the names of the size of the frets of a guitar as: “jumbo frets” or “medium jumbo frets“, “Narrow and tall“, among others. Therefore, below you can find in detail the main measurements, used by both Fender and Gibson .
The size of a fret refers to the width and height of the fret wire, and more specifically, the crown (also known as the bead) of the fret wire. To help you visualize this, check out this diagram showing the cross section of a guitar neck.
A guide to measuring the frets in a guitar and choosing the best replacement fretwire.
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- Australian Luthier Supplies
Sep 12, 2024 · Fret size is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of guitar playing. It affects playability, tone, and comfort, making it an essential consideration for any guitarist. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, finding the right fret size can significantly enhance your playing experience.
