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vic_loher

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Jul 23, 2016
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I have a JP15 on order and it should be here this next week. I ordered it based on reviews on the internet as I have not been able to see one at my local dealers. I know it has a 17" radius and I am a little concerned about playing barre chords on it. I am not a shredder. I play a lot of chords and some solos. Can you share your experience playing barre chords on the JP15 or Majesty.

Thanks all.

Vic
 

Lou

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I switch between all my JP's and other guitars with different radii and I have no issues.
 

vic_loher

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Lou, thanks for the reply. Do you play barre chords on the JP without any trouble?
 

luiscesaripad

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I believe that there is no specifc guitar for playing chords and specifc one to play lead. The player makes the guitar, not the opposite. Just my personal experience...
 

MJK28

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Dec 23, 2013
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The JP15 neck is very friendly and ergonomic, I've had no trouble barring chords. Once you get it tell us how your hand feels!
 

KEOKI

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No issues. I do chord melody gigs with my Majesty without issue. Great necks on both.
 

LesPaul

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Mar 12, 2016
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No problems at all with the 17 inch radius neck on my Majesty 7. In fact, it's hands down the most comfortable and easy to play guitar I've ever held. Beats my old Les Paul Custom easily.
 

KEOKI

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What have you been playing that makes you nervous about a JP neck? Asking for radius not brand name
 

vic_loher

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Thanks guys. Exactly the responses I was looking for. Now I am really looking forward to getting the guitar.

Keoki, I have been playing a 13" radius...no problems with barre chords, but was a little concerned with a flatter neck. I've played classical guitars and can play barre chords, but it's not so easy.

Thanks again all.
 

jones4tone

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Jun 24, 2016
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Texas
I switch between my JP15 with the 17" radius and a 10" radius seamlessly, and don't find one to be easier than another for barre chords. You'll love the JP, I believe.
 

MikeVt

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Vermont
Thanks guys. Exactly the responses I was looking for. Now I am really looking forward to getting the guitar.

Keoki, I have been playing a 13" radius...no problems with barre chords, but was a little concerned with a flatter neck. I've played classical guitars and can play barre chords, but it's not so easy.

Thanks again all.

Even if it was slghtly more difficult (and I doubt it will be because the JPs have a shallow neck profile), it would only serve to strengthen your left hand. After a while, barre chords will feel more comfortable and natural and you'll be able to play any profile easily - ie: you won't have to worry about it.

Mike
 

vic_loher

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NC
Thanks Mike. I am feeling very comfortable now and am excited to get the guitar this next Friday.
 

bhull

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Feb 17, 2014
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Utah, United States
So confused by this question...why would it be difficult to play barre chords?

Smaller radius necks are more forgiving for barre chords.

When barring across the neck with your finger, sometimes you'll catch some buzz and find you have to press down harder to get all the strings firmly on the frets.

Smaller radius necks are a little more forgiving on this since the neck is somewhat "coming up" to meet your barring finger.

Hope that made sense.
 

JamieCrain

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Mar 25, 2015
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141
So confused by this question...why would it be difficult to play barre chords?

Me too. Different necks have different feels and comfort levels but I've never felt I couldn't play barre chords on any 6 string instrument, and I have small hands. I'm sure you will be fine, Vic.
 

MesaBeno

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Aug 26, 2007
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Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Smaller radius necks are more forgiving for barre chords.

When barring across the neck with your finger, sometimes you'll catch some buzz and find you have to press down harder to get all the strings firmly on the frets.

Smaller radius necks are a little more forgiving on this since the neck is somewhat "coming up" to meet your barring finger.

Hope that made sense.

Sure does, thanks for explaining! I guess I've never given much thought to these things. In my 17 years of playing, I've tended to be able to adapt to any I've had the chance of owning. Sure, ended up selling a bunch in the search for the 2 I have and cherish now, but I can't say any have given me issues with playing, if I'm honest.

In any case, I own a JP15 and I find it to be nothing but a pure pleasure to play. Compared to my 8 string guitar, it practically plays itself! :)
 
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