“The Difference Between a Good and Bad Guitar Neck: Know What to Look For.”
When it comes to guitar playing, one of the most important parts of the instrument is the neck. Without a solid neck, your playing just won’t be as tight and accurate as it could be. But not all guitar necks are created equal, so it’s important to know what to look for when choosing one for yourself. Here, we break down the differences between a good and bad guitar neck, what kind of materials they’re made of and what intonation options you have. So, let’s dig into the details of the best guitar necks!
The most common type of guitar neck is the maple/rosewood combination. Both maple and rosewood are well-known for their durability and if they are joined together they make a great apex ground. Maple is the main material of the neck, which is then overlaid with rosewood. This configuration gives the neck a luscious feel, a warm sound and good sustain. Maple necks are usually used in the electric guitar and bass, while rosewood is more commonly found in the acoustic guitar.
When it comes to intonation, you have a few options: fixed intonation, adjustable intonation and truss rod adjustment. With fixed intonation, you get a set adjustment from the manufacturer and that’s it. Adjustable intonation allows you to tweak the intonation by moving the saddle. On the other hand, truss rod adjustment is a process whereby the tension in the neck is modified. The truss rod is accessed from the headstock and isn’t necessary unless you need to do a drastic adjustment.
Other materials used in guitar necks – and some of the more interesting ones – include ebony, Mahogany and other exotic hardwoods. Ebony is known not just for its looks but also its stiffness, which is great for sustain and intonation. Mahogany is known for its warmth and softness but, like ebony, it’s also quite strong. For something a little more exotic, you could look into some of the other hardwoods (e.g. Wenge) that are used in guitar necks.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, it pays to get informed when it comes to choosing a guitar neck. To get the best sound and highest performance from your axe, make sure to check out the materials and intonation options available. With the right knowledge, you can make sure your instrument will stay in tune for a long time!