Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Radiused fretboards

#1

Banjo Ben–this is the question I asked on facebook and you asked me to add it here:

I am wondering if a radiused fretboard on a Mandolin is important to have. And if so, what are its specific benefits?

I don’t understand how a slight curvature over about an inch can make much of a difference. Please give as detailed an answer as you have time for. ~thank you!

#2

I have two mandos with wider necks (1 1/8" and 1 1/4"). One is radiused and the other is not. You can feel a significant difference between them. I prefer the radius and my wife prefers the flat one. I suggest trying a few necks and find the one that fits your hand and style. I think it’s basically a matter of personal preference.