True-Tempered Split-Fret Strandberg Guitar
Category: /category/guitar
Strandberg True-Tempered Split-Fret Guitars: A Revolution in Intonation
The Strandberg True-Temperament split-fret guitars are a groundbreaking innovation in the world of stringed instruments, promising a level of precision and playability that surpasses traditional designs. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key features of these guitars, focusing on intonation, the unique per-string tuned frets, the lightness of the instrument, and why the split frets help achieve perfect tone. We’ll also contrast these guitars with standard traditional frets, which often provide an approximation of tuning.
Understanding Intonation
Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch produced by a musical instrument. In a perfectly intonated guitar, every note on the fretboard sounds in tune across all strings and frets. However, achieving perfect intonation has been a challenge with traditional guitars due to the compromises made in fret placement.
Per-String Tuned Frets
Strandberg True-Temperament guitars feature split frets that are uniquely tuned for each string. Unlike traditional guitars, where frets are straight and uniformly placed across the fretboard, True-Temperament frets are curved and individually positioned to cater to the specific vibrational patterns and harmonic characteristics of each string. This meticulous design ensures that each note played is in perfect tune, regardless of its position on the fretboard.
The Lightness of the Instrument
Strandberg guitars are renowned for their ergonomic design and lightweight construction. Using modern materials and innovative construction techniques, these guitars are significantly lighter than traditional models. This not only makes them easier to handle and play for extended periods but also enhances their resonance and sustain. The combination of a lightweight body and precision-engineered frets provides a comfortable and highly responsive playing experience.
Split Frets and Perfect Tone
The split frets of the True-Temperament system are key to achieving perfect tone. Traditional frets, which are straight and uniformly spaced, can only provide an approximation of the ideal tuning, often leading to slight discrepancies in pitch, especially noticeable in complex chords and higher frets. In contrast, the split frets of the True-Temperament system are carefully calibrated to ensure that each note is perfectly in tune. This results in a purer, more harmonious sound, free from the intonation issues that can plague standard fretted guitars.
Contrast to Traditional Frets
Traditional guitars use a compromise tuning system where the frets are placed in a straight line and spaced according to a mathematical approximation of equal temperament. While this system works reasonably well, it cannot account for the subtle variations in string tension, thickness, and length that affect pitch. As a result, even well-tuned traditional guitars can suffer from slight intonation problems.
The True-Temperament system addresses these issues by individually adjusting the fret positions for each string, resulting in a guitar that plays in perfect tune across the entire fretboard. This precise intonation is particularly beneficial for recording and live performances, where even minor tuning issues can be detrimental to the overall sound quality.
Conclusion
Strandberg True-Temperament split-fret guitars represent a significant advancement in guitar design, offering unparalleled intonation and playability. The unique per-string tuned frets, combined with the instrument’s lightweight construction, ensure that each note is in perfect tune, providing a superior playing experience. By contrast, traditional frets offer only an approximation of tuning, often resulting in intonation issues that True-Temperament guitars elegantly resolve. For guitarists seeking the pinnacle of tonal accuracy and comfort, the Strandberg True-Temperament split-fret guitar is an exceptional choice.
