Scale length

[Octavian]

What are the advantages/disadvantages of shorter/longer scale lengths? Godin guitars seem to be 24.8" which is short whereas most other guitars come in at around 25.5". Do finger pickers prefer longer scale length?

[Andrewrg]

 

Originally posted by Octavian What are the advantages/disadvantages of shorter/longer scale lengths? Godin guitars seem to be 24.8" which is short whereas most other guitars come in at around 25.5". Do finger pickers prefer longer scale length?

 

 

Its down to personal preference really.A longer scale will be more spanky,louder and may sustain more.Short scale instruments tend to sound softer and more restrained.Try comparing an OM 28with a OOO 28 for instance.

[woody b]

It's just a personal preference thing. Strats and Teles have a long scale while SG's and Les Pauls have a shorter scale so it's not just acoustics. I prefer the longer scale.

[peppy]

Shorter scale length guitars also tend to be easier to reach for chording in the lower positions...closer fretting. A bit less taut strings too, aiding in a more relaxed feel and less finger pressure.

[riffmeister]

for a given string guage, lengthening the scale increases string tension. increased string tension gives more sustain and more overtones which makes the sound brighter.