Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Randy Webb on January 12, 2010 at 3:56am

I like to use a "ftretboard" even if I dont plan on fretting it...lol 1. It gets the neck flush with the top of the box or higher without any complicated cutting. 2. It gives added strength. 3. If done creatively, also makes getting the tuner depth and string angle right It also allows me to get a better string angle at the bridge. String angle at the bridge effect the tone of an electric guitar and also acoustics. The "fretboard" allows me to get a steeper angle at the bridge while keeping the action reasonable... see this plan to clear up what I mean (pdf posted in the building advice forum)

That's just the way I like to do it. But there is that whole "no rules" thing. Whatever works for you.

Permalink Reply by Wichita Sam on January 12, 2010 at 7:38am

Peter,

Randy pretty much had the reasons for a fret board, to which I would add that if you are fretting the fret board, you can do all the cutting and finishing on the bench before glue-up which makes it a lot easier....

As far as frets over the body, it is mostly style, although some really good fingerstyle players could reach 2-4 frets over the body.... just makes the body look more "guitarish"....

try it both ways...

the best,

Wichita Sam

Permalink Reply by Peter Taylor on January 12, 2010 at 2:14pm

thanks guys...think i might give it a go

Permalink Reply by William H Bonney on January 14, 2010 at 5:58am

My builds have have a fretless fret board and neck is also laminated for added strngth.Good looks etc.Also I agree with Randy on this one.

James