Guitars have been a symbol of musical versatility and innovation for centuries. Within the realm of guitar design, a fascinating feature known as slanted frets has captured the attention of players and builders alike. These uniquely angled frets offer a range of benefits, from improved intonation to enhanced playability. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of slanted frets, exploring what they are, why they exist, and what they are commonly called in the guitar community.
What Are Slanted Frets?
Slanted frets, also referred to as compound radius or multi-scale frets, represent a departure from the traditional parallel arrangement of frets found on most guitars. Instead of running straight across the fingerboard, these frets are strategically angled, creating a unique geometry.
Why Slanted Frets Exist
The existence of slanted frets serves several important purposes:
- Improved Intonation: One of the primary reasons for slanted frets is to address intonation issues that can plague traditional flat-fretted guitars. Slanted frets compensate for variations in string tension and length, ensuring that each note on the fretboard is in tune.
- Enhanced Playability: Slanted frets offer ergonomic advantages by accommodating the natural curvature of the hand and fingers. This design makes it more comfortable to reach higher notes on the fretboard, especially during intricate solos or fast-paced playing.
- Extended Range Guitars: Slanted frets are commonly found on extended range guitars, such as seven-string or eight-string models. These guitars cover a wider tonal range, and slanted frets help maintain precise intonation and playability across the extended fretboard.
- Multi-Scale Guitars: In multi-scale guitars, each string has a different scale length. Slanted frets are essential to ensure accurate intonation for every string. This design consideration becomes increasingly important as the number of strings on the guitar increases.
- Modern Aesthetics: Slanted frets contribute to the distinctive and modern appearance of certain guitar models. The angular fret layout not only enhances playability but also adds a visually striking element to the instrument’s design.
What Are Slanted Frets Called?
In the guitar community, slanted frets can go by various names, including:
- Compound Radius Fretboard: This term emphasizes the gradual curvature of the fingerboard, which accommodates both chords and lead playing.
- Multi-Scale Fretboard: This term is often used when referring to guitars with varying scale lengths for each string, as it highlights the multiple scales that slanted frets can accommodate.
- Fan Fret Fretboard: The word “fan” in this context refers to the fan-like arrangement of the frets, which diverge from a single point, much like a peacock’s tail feathers.
- True Temperament Fretboard: While not exclusive to slanted frets, True Temperament fretboards are designed to optimize intonation and often incorporate slanted frets or unique fret shapes.
Conclusion
Slanted frets represent a fascinating and practical innovation in guitar design. Whether you encounter them on a seven-string metal machine, an extended-range acoustic, or a cutting-edge electric guitar, these angled frets are a testament to the continuous quest for improved playability and intonation in the world of guitar craftsmanship. Understanding the purpose and versatility of slanted frets can deepen your appreciation for the artistry and innovation that underlie these exceptional instruments.
