What’s the Secret to Shredding on a Narrow vs Wide Neck Guitar?
If you’re a guitarist, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of trying to shred on a guitar with a neck that doesn’t seem to fit your hands. This can be especially frustrating if you’re playing a guitar with a narrow neck when you’re used to playing on a wide neck guitar, or vice versa. So, what’s the secret to shredding on a narrow vs wide neck guitar? It’s all about understanding the differences between the two necks and using them to your advantage.
Narrow Neck vs. Wide Neck Guitars
Before we dive into the secret, let’s take a minute to understand the differences between narrow neck and wide neck guitars. The width of a guitar’s neck is measured at the nut. A narrow neck guitar has a nut width of 1 11/16 inches or less, while a wide neck guitar has a nut width of 1 3/4 inches or more.
Narrow neck guitars are often favored by players with smaller hands, or for players who prefer a more “fretboard friendly” experience. They typically have less space between the strings, which can make it easier for players with smaller hands to reach the frets.
Wide neck guitars, on the other hand, are typically favored by players with larger hands, or for players who like the extra space between strings. They can offer more room for fingerstyle playing, as well as more space for fingerpicking.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of narrow and wide neck guitars, let’s jump into the secret to shredding on each type of guitar.
The Secret to Shredding on a Narrow Neck Guitar
If you’re used to playing on a wide neck guitar, switching to a narrow neck guitar can be a challenge. The key to shredding on a narrow neck guitar is to focus on precision and accuracy. Since there is less space between the strings on a narrow neck guitar, your fingers will need to be more precise when playing.
To achieve precision on a narrow neck guitar, start by practicing basic scales and finger exercises. Take your time and focus on getting each note right. As you practice, you’ll likely find that the muscle memory in your fingers adapts to the narrower frets, and you’ll be able to play faster and with more accuracy.
Another tip for shredding on a narrow neck guitar is to use alternate picking. Since there is less space between the strings, alternate picking can help you navigate the strings more efficiently and with less effort. Start slow and gradually increase your speed as you get more comfortable with the technique.
The Secret to Shredding on a Wide Neck Guitar
If you’re used to playing on a narrow neck guitar, the wider spacing of a wide neck guitar can feel a bit overwhelming. However, the wider spacing can actually be an advantage when it comes to shredding.
The key to shredding on a wide neck guitar is to use the extra space to your advantage. With more room between the strings, it’s easier to play complex chord voicings and reach higher frets without straining your fingers.
To take advantage of the wider spacing on a wide neck guitar, start by practicing larger chord voicings and stretches. Gradually work your way up to more complex chords, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different fingerings and inversions.
Another tip for shredding on a wide neck guitar is to use legato playing techniques. With more space between the strings, it’s easier to slide between notes and use hammer-ons and pull-offs to create faster, more fluid lines. Practice legato exercises and incorporate them into your playing to take advantage of the wider spacing.
In Conclusion
Whether you prefer a narrow neck or a wide neck guitar, understanding the differences and using them to your advantage is the key to shredding. Practice precision and accuracy on a narrow neck guitar, and take advantage of the extra space on a wide neck guitar to play complex chord voicings and legato lines.
Remember, there is no one “right” way to play guitar. Experiment with different neck widths and playing styles to find what works best for you. With practice, patience, and a bit of experimentation, you’ll be shredding on any guitar in no time.
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