need help on scale length, building a guitar...

[Docrock]

Ive got a ibanez, well 2 of them and Im combining parts. The bridge ends up in a different spot. I measured the old body and apllied that to the new. The scale is 25 1/2 I think. Well heres my dilema. Where do I measure because you know how saddles are offset for each string? Which one do I use? Im sure you average them. But Im nervous about getting it right. Is this a super critical measurement or will it be fine if I just get it intonated right? If possible. Thanks!

 

[scooter]

Re: need help on scale length, building a guitar...

What part's are you combining? First, make sure that you know that the scale is 25.5". To measure the scale length measure from the fingerboard side of the nut to the saddles. Also, if the neck is indeed 25.5" scale then the distance from the nut to the 12th fret will be 12.75". Typically, the saddles will need more adjustment on the bass side since the tension on these strings is higher when fretted creating an apparent shorter scale length. Thus, the saddles are typically moved back a bit. This is called compensation.

 

[GuitarSandwich]

Re: need help on scale length, building a guitar...

I think I understand what you are trying to do, forgive me if I misunderstand.

Perhaps you can start with measuring the position of the bridge on the original instrument (assembled) that has the NECK that you are going to use. Put both the high and low string on (only) and tune to pitch and then intonate using a tuner.

This, when intonated properly, will give you the true measurement you are looking for... nut to bridge saddle on both ends of the bridge. The only thing that makes any difference is the distance from nut to bridge (assuming you have the instrument intonated.)

This measurement will determine the position of the bridge on the new body that you are placing that neck on.

 

[Docrock]

Re: need help on scale length, building a guitar...

Thanks.
I figured it out. I did measure the old guitar before taking apart. From the nut to the trem post centers. I had to drill new holes for the posts and just wanted to get it right the first time, ya know. I did alot of mocking up after fitting the neck before I drilled. But those "compensated saddles" threw me. Which one is 25.5? they are all diffenet lengths. Its all together now and its just a hair shorter on the bass side than I wanted. I had to run the saddle out as far as it would possibly go. But its all intonated......thank god. And thank you guys!