How different are a 24.75" scale and a 25" scale?

**Pierrot** · 06-11-2011, 03:57 AM

I almost cannot appreciate the difference between the "pantone" 115 and the 121, but I know that for some professionals of the graphics area, the existing tiny nuance will be a big deal.

I, me, myself, feel some -very subtle- difference between 24,75" and 25". I feel, as it is obvious, more difference between 24,75" and 25,5".
Oh yes...everywhere, BTW. It's even easy to SEE the difference, as it is VISIBLE.

Now, I'll go somewhere and try to find some Brooklin bridge to buy.

Salud!

**Cooperro** · 06-11-2011, 05:52 AM

I feel a big difference playing chord melody, especially from the 8th or 9th fret up. It's feels very cramped for me on my LP (24.75) versus my L5 (25.5). I can't even imagine playing chord-melody on a Byrdland with an even shorter scale (23.5"). But if I were playing pure Bebop all night, I bet you could just fly with that shorter Byrdland scale. Now I feel I have to go rip on my Jaguar (24"), but too cramped for chord soloing.

And the string tension difference is also quite noticeable.

I like the extra room of the 25.5" scale, and I also feel I'd like the extra width at the nut, say 1 3/4" instead of 1 11/16" for jazz. Now we're talking room to move. I'm sure you classical guitarists fully understand the need for a lot of room.

Bob :-)

**fumblefingers** · 06-11-2011, 08:39 PM

Originally Posted by BigDaddyLoveHandles

I don't think it's been mentioned, but I've always assumed Eastmans had a 25" scale because they were copying Benedetto.

the 25" scale length was one of the key innovations specified by Johnny Smith for the Gibson Johnny Smith model. most top archtop luthiers use it now (as well as the 17" lower bout, 3" body depth, and floating pickup). even PRS guitars uses the 25" scale. Ironically?, the Guild/Benedetto Johnny Smith had a 25 and 9/16th inch scale. it feels like it too.

most top luthiers don't make an L5 or Super 400 type guitar, or at least not in the same production numbers as a Johnny Smith inspired instrument.

regarding Eastman, they aren't the only ones "taking inspiration from" Benedetto guitars.