Scallop fretboard?

[koogie2k]

I am thinking of having this done to one of my old Ibenhads.....pros and cons to those in the know please. I have always wanted to try one...but, they are not exactly easy to find. Just so you all know...I was going to buy a neck already scalloped and keep the original neck just in case....

 

[GWDavis28]

Koogie, smart move man not messing with the original neck. I know the Yngwie Malmsteen Fender Strats had scalloped necks, so if you can locate one of those you can give it a try to see if you like it or not.

Yngwie Malmsteen Strat

Glenn |B)

 

[shredderbetter]

I have 6 yjm strats most EVERYONE who plays them hates them?!?!? I like em' but they are difficult to play if your heavy handed~ and hard to chord easily due to no support on the fretboard the strings change pitch easily when you press down too hard,best bet ask someone to let you try before you buy!

 

[tonemeister]

I have owned several and have always enjoyed them........

Cons: easy to play out of tune if you mash too hard on the strings (easiest to do when playing a hard to manage chord with a stretched out hand position) as someone has mentioned previously.

Pros: GREAT for string bending! No resistance against fretboard under your finger. you can make huge interval bends on them. Also after playing them a while you will develop a much lighter touch on the fretboard as not to go sharp. This can really improve your technique and touch in the long run which will reduce hand fatigue and cramping.

I have missed owning a scalloped guitar and have been keeping an eye open for one myself. Not for everyone but rewarding if you stick with it!
Ciao fer now!

 

[whitestrat]

I have 6 yjm strats most EVERYONE who plays them hates them?!?!?

I love those! There's something about those scalloped frets which makes me feel like I'm playing air... very comfortable once you establish the kind of tension you need.

 

[the24thfret]

I had an Ibanez ripoff with scalloped frets from 19-24. It was awesome. I wish my JP had it actually.

 

[ScoobySteve]

Messed around on a Yngwie Strat, suffice it to say, it is quite something else.

UVA instruments in Hollywood (great custom shop) does neck scalloping if you're absolutely seriously about getting it done.

Pros's for me:
-Teaches finger precision, dexterity and control
-Helps with endurance, not too stressful on the hand for extended sessions.
-Gives you great pitch control
-Once you get the hang of it, aids in shredding.

Cons for me:
-More lead oriented (sorry for the duh statement)
-Takes a LOT of getting used to. Simple things become challenges.
-Frustrating if you have an instrument that struggles with tune control. I actually haven't seen a scalloped guitar with a floyd rose, or a floating tremlo.
-Chord playing becomes a different animal.

It's really a like it, or love it sort of deal. And unless you love it, not really worth the investment.