In recent years, the world of guitar design has expanded beyond traditional norms, giving rise to innovative instruments that challenge convention and enhance playability. One such innovation is the multiscale guitar—a unique and often visually striking instrument that offers both functional and ergonomic benefits. Whether you’re a guitarist seeking improved tone, playability, or modern aesthetics, understanding what a multiscale guitar is can open up new dimensions in your playing experience.
This comprehensive article will explore the origins, design, mechanics, advantages, disadvantages, and musical applications of the multiscale guitar. It will also provide insight into the types of players who benefit from this design and what to consider when choosing one.
What Is a Multiscale Guitar?
A multiscale guitar—also referred to as a fanned-fret guitar—is an instrument with different scale lengths for each string. Unlike a traditional guitar where all the strings are the same length from nut to bridge, a multiscale guitar staggers these lengths to optimize string tension and tonal balance.
On a standard guitar, the frets are parallel, and all six strings span the same distance between the nut and bridge saddle. In contrast, on a multiscale guitar, the frets are slanted or “fanned out,” with the lower strings having a longer scale length and the higher strings a shorter one. This approach stems from an effort to improve tuning stability, intonation, and overall playability.
Historical Background and Origins
The multiscale concept isn’t as new as it might seem. The design has historical roots going back centuries. Harps, lutes, and other stringed instruments have long used varying string lengths to optimize tone and tension. However, the modern multiscale guitar as we know it began gaining traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, especially among progressive and technical metal players.
One of the most recognized pioneers in this field is Ralph Novak, who patented the fanned-fret system in the 1980s. Novak’s design was aimed at creating a more ergonomic and sonically balanced guitar. His company, Novax Guitars, brought significant attention to the benefits of multiscale instruments.
As extended range guitars—such as 7-string and 8-string guitars—became more common, multiscale designs grew in popularity. Players and builders recognized that longer scale lengths improved low-string clarity and tension, while shorter lengths maintained comfortable playability for the higher strings.
Understanding Scale Length and Fret Layout
To grasp the value of a multiscale guitar, it’s essential to understand the role of scale length in guitar construction. Scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge saddle. Common scale lengths for traditional guitars are:
Fender-style: 25.5 inches (e.g., Stratocaster)
Gibson-style: 24.75 inches (e.g., Les Paul)
Scale length affects several factors:
Tension: Longer scales require more tension for the same pitch.
Tone: Longer scales typically produce tighter, more defined bass tones.
Feel: Shorter scales offer a slinkier, looser feel with easier bending.
A multiscale guitar might use a combination such as 26.5 inches on the low E string and 24.75 inches on the high E. The fret layout is adjusted so the frets fan out from a “neutral fret,” which is typically somewhere near the 7th or 9th fret. This neutral fret remains perpendicular to the guitar’s neck, while the frets above and below it are angled.
Benefits of a Multiscale Guitar
1. Balanced String Tension
One of the most notable advantages of a multiscale guitar is improved string tension. On standard guitars, tuning down the lower strings (common in metal and prog) can result in a floppy, undefined feel. A longer scale on the low strings helps maintain tight tension, producing a punchier, more articulate sound.
Simultaneously, the shorter scale on the treble strings maintains a light, playable feel—great for solos, bends, and fast runs. This balance creates a more even playing experience across all six (or more) strings.
2. Enhanced Intonation and Tuning Stability
Multiscale guitars offer better intonation, especially in extended-range instruments. The staggered scale lengths ensure each string has a more appropriate tension, which reduces issues related to tuning discrepancies.
Longer low strings have improved intonation because they vibrate more evenly, and the need for compensating saddle adjustments is reduced.
3. Improved Ergonomics
While the fan-fret layout may appear unusual at first glance, many players find it more natural to play. The fanning aligns more closely with the natural angle of the hand as it moves across the neck, especially when shifting from low to high positions.
Players often report reduced hand fatigue and better posture when using a multiscale guitar, particularly during long sessions or complex pieces.
4. Sonic Clarity Across the Spectrum
Multiscale guitars shine in genres that demand precision, clarity, and tight low-end—metal, fusion, prog, and djent, for example. The longer bass strings retain definition even under high-gain conditions, while the shorter treble strings deliver smooth highs without sounding shrill.
The tonal balance is noticeable whether playing clean or distorted tones.
Who Uses Multiscale Guitars?
While multiscale guitars are found in various genres, they’re especially prominent in modern metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion. Notable players include:
Tosin Abasi (Animals as Leaders) – known for pushing technical boundaries with 8-string multiscale guitars.
Javier Reyes (Animals as Leaders) – uses multiscale instruments for complex, layered textures.
Misha Mansoor (Periphery) – advocates for multiscale guitars in djent and modern metalcore.
These artists rely on multiscale instruments to maintain clarity, articulation, and feel across extended ranges.
Multiscale Guitars vs. Traditional Guitars
Aesthetic Differences
Aesthetically, multiscale guitars are immediately recognizable due to their angled frets. Some players find them modern and eye-catching, while others prefer the classic look of straight frets.
Learning Curve
There’s a brief adjustment period when transitioning from a traditional guitar to a multiscale guitar. The fan-fret layout can feel foreign initially, especially in chordal playing across multiple strings. However, most players adapt quickly—often within days or weeks.
Setup and Maintenance
Adjusting string height, intonation, and action on a multiscale guitar is more complex due to the staggered bridge and nut. Not all luthiers or techs are experienced with multiscale setups, so finding the right technician is important.
String selection may also require more thought, especially for custom gauges or extended range guitars. Some manufacturers offer string sets designed for multiscale instruments.
Multiscale Guitars in Extended Range Setups
7-String and 8-String Guitars
Multiscale designs are most popular in 7- and 8-string guitars because of the challenges presented by low tunings. A standard scale 8-string guitar often suffers from poor intonation and mushy low-end. By increasing the bass-side scale length (often 27–28 inches or more), multiscale guitars solve this problem effectively.
Players who need drop A, drop G, or even F# tuning find multiscale designs ideal. The low strings maintain clarity while high strings remain playable and comfortable.
Baritone Multiscale Guitars
Baritone guitars, which typically have scale lengths ranging from 27 to 30 inches, also benefit from multiscale layouts. These guitars cater to genres like doom, sludge, and experimental rock, where deep tunings are common.
Multiscale Guitars and Acoustic Instruments
While less common, multiscale designs are also used in acoustic guitars. Builders like Ormsby, Breedlove, and Lowden have introduced fan-fret acoustics aimed at fingerstyle players.
Benefits include:
- More consistent tension for alternate tunings
- Enhanced bass response
- Balanced volume across strings
For fingerstyle players using drop tunings (e.g., DADGAD or open C), the multiscale design offers noticeable improvements in tone and playability.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Multiscale Guitar
1. Musical Style
If your style relies on downtuning, extended range, or precision in both rhythm and lead playing, a multiscale guitar is worth serious consideration. For standard-tuned blues or pop, the benefits might be less noticeable.
2. Comfort and Adaptability
Try a multiscale guitar before buying. The fanned frets feel different, and individual preference plays a big role. Make sure the neck profile, fretboard radius, and overall ergonomics suit your hand.
3. Build Quality and Brand
Brands like Strandberg, Ibanez (RGMS and Iron Label series), Dingwall (for bass guitars), Ormsby, and Legator produce high-quality multiscale guitars. Some offer headless options for added comfort and weight reduction.
4. Budget
Multiscale guitars tend to be more expensive due to the specialized manufacturing involved. Custom builds and boutique brands can reach several thousand dollars. However, entry-level options are increasingly available.
Conclusion
A multiscale guitar represents the cutting edge of guitar innovation, blending tradition with technological evolution. By staggering scale lengths across the strings, it provides better string tension, improved tuning stability, and enhanced sonic performance—especially in extended range and downtuned settings.
While it may not replace the traditional guitar for every player, it offers undeniable advantages for those pushing musical boundaries. Whether you’re a progressive virtuoso, a djent enthusiast, or a tone-conscious fingerstylist, the multiscale guitar opens up new frontiers in expression.
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