Does neck scale length affect action?

[windsen]

I have an ESP Horizon NTII (25.5" scale) and an EC-400AT (24.75" scale). I can get pretty low action on the NTII with no fret buzz but I can't quite get it the same on the EC. The action isn't terribly how but it's a noticable difference. I know the NTII is a standard series, and compared to the LTD series EC, it's higher quality, but would the scale length affect how low I can set my action. The shorter length means less string tensions so the strings are flopping around more, increasing the chance for fret buzz. May reasoning may be completely wrong and it's really just a matter of a ESP vs LTD quality. If the latter is the case, is there anything I can do to lower the action on the EC? I bought the guitar used but there's no fret wear, but it's possible that the frets need leveling. I've tried adusting both the neck and the bridge height. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

-Windsen

 

[rspst14]

Re: Does neck scale length affect action?

Of my three guitars, I can get the lowest, most buzz-free action on the one with a 24 3/4 inch scale. Scale length shouldn't be an issue...most likely, it's an issue with either your setup or your frets. Assuming you have the truss rod and the action set properly and that you're not using ridiculously light strings, you'll need to have the frets leveled if you want to get lower action without buzz.

Ryan

 

[Breogan]

Re: Does neck scale length affect action?

As far as I know 25.5' scale can compromise the action a bit more than 24.75'. The reason it's that the longer scale allows the string to vibrate in a wider area. But the quality of the neck set up (not the guitar) it's a very important factor. The neck should be as straight as possible and the frets equaly leveled. Sometimes a bit of relif can help to prevent some buzz but that's something you have to check on the guitar.

 

[rspst14]

Re: Does neck scale length affect action?

As far as I know 25.5' scale can compromise the action a bit more than 24.75'. The reason it's that the longer scale allows the string to vibrate in a wider area. But the quality of the neck set up (not the guitar) it's a very important factor. The neck should be as straight as possible and the frets equaly leveled. Sometimes a bit of relif can help to prevent some buzz but that's something you have to check on the guitar.

Actually, it's the other way around. The string tension on a short scale guitar is slightly less than on a standard 25.5 inch scale. Strings vibrate in an eliptical pattern, and the more string tension, the more it will vibrate side to side instead of eliptically. That's why light strings require higher action, compared to heavier strings which can get away with lower action.

Either way, a good setup and properly leveled frets are the most important factor.

Ryan

 

[windsen]

Re: Does neck scale length affect action?

Alright guys, thanks for all the info. Super helpful. I'll look into seeing if my frets need to be leveled. Also as a follow up, what's considered a "low" action. Say, what's the measurement at the 12th fret. I've just always been curious. Thanks again. Peace.

-Windsen