Guitar being Cappoed, Where do I play on the Bass?

[g.]

In talking to Conklin and Novax, it shouldn't be that big of a deal to get the scale of each outside string where you want it. Actually its relatively new in the amrket, so either way you are paying custom luthier prices ; }

 

Many of the fan-fretted instruments already out ther or in description actually have pretty logical scale choices. Myself, I'm shooting for a low B (or A) at 35", and if I go up into guitar territory hope to end at 28" (baritone guitar equivalent) or so, depending on how many strings I go for. This is still in the future when hovercars are in wide use, so I have plenty of time to think about it ; }

 

From what has been described to me, and from what I've gleaned by looking at a pic and imagining hand placement, the fan-fretted instruments are actually easier for reaches because, for example, if you are playing a low C on the B string, a G on the E string is actually closer than on a stright-fretted instrument. And so on up the neck.

 

This is why you can get the short-scale speed and action as you go up, and also your chordal reach is enhanced. Stare at a pic of one and imagine some scenarios and you will see what I mean.

[Jim T.]

G.B.,

I'd like to try a fanned fretted instrument.

Maybe that'd be an answer. I still maintain though, in this 21st century high tech world that a true short scaled instrument with partially synthesized (octave lowered?) pickups and a simple way to adapt (afix) standard short scale strings, are all possible. If only I had the smarts to design and prototype one! I spoke with Joe Zon about this idea and he was nice enough to have a dialogue with me via email but he didn't seem to interested in persuing the idea(s). He seemd like one of the most likely candidates for experimentation...and he's a really nice guy to have even bothered with me about it!

 

I'm also curious to see if the V Bass synth will be an answer. In the meantime I've finally adapted to a 34" scale on fretted. The fretless is still a challenge though. To be continuted?...