The Collings Forum

Greetings all. Long time guitar hack with what seems like a simple question but I've had some very experienced guitar people explain scale differences to me and I'm just not getting it so I'm asking again...what is the point/goal in making a longer or shorter scale? I understand it affects string tension but that alone cannot be the goal, can it? For example - two guitars, identical as possible in wood, build, finish, bracing, etc but different scales. What differences should I expect to hear or feel? Anything anyone can contribute to my education would be much appreciated. If we successfully get through "Scale 101" it's quite possible that we'll quickly move to "Fan Fret 101" but baby steps please...thanks!

This article may be of some enlightenment.

http://www.jazzyacousticguitar.com/guitar-scale-length/

All else being equal a longer scale = more potential volume and a brighter tone

Thank you both for the responses. I'll read the article and try to reason out Derek's post. Much appreciated!

...and maybe we'll move on to fan frets next week.