Neck Radius

[mattbaines31]

Im looking at spending a small fortune on an EBMM to replace my Ibanez JS 100. Im looking at making a purchase that i wont be changing for a long time, if ever. To that end ive been looking at EBMM JP series guitars, specifically BFR, JPXI & JP 12.

The issue i have is i see so many people rave about the 20" neck radius on the JPXI & JP12, but what does it actually mean to a player? The BFRs (Which i happen to think come in nicer finishes) are 15" neck radius.

I have small hands for a bloke but have played classical guitar for 20 years and find the neck to be extremely comfortable on those. I have read that a 20" neck radius is similar to a classical guitar. Unfortunatley not many places in the UK stock multiple EBMM guitars and getting somewhere to trial each variety is difficult. Any advise to help me decide would be appreciated.
I have not been totally happy with my JS 100, probably due to the lower quality of the guitar but potentially such a radical change in neck may be an issue.

 

[A.J.]

Thanks for considering Music Man! The higher the number for the radius the flatter the fretboard is (it has no bearing on the neck profile or shape of the back of the neck). The 20" radius will be considerably flatter than what you have on your Ibanez. Ultimately it is up to you to decide what works best for you!

 

[shredding]

A.J. how do you compare the shape of the back of the neck of the BFR (or jp6) to jp12? Are they the same profile? thanks!

 

[Rossness]

I'm not sure if I can help, but let me chime in with my experience with the JP guitars. I am by no means an expert.

I find that the 6 string JP's have a very nice fretboard radius, but their necks are too thin for me. If you want something similar to a classical guitar, you might want to take a look at a JP7 of some sore. Their necks are thin and wide and would most resemble a classical guitar's neck.