Should the Bridge Radius Match the Neck Radius?
When setting up or upgrading your guitar, one common question is: should the bridge radius match the neck (fingerboard) radius? The short answer is yes — ideally, they should match or be very close. Here’s why it matters and how to get it right.
What Is “Radius” on a Guitar?
The radius refers to the curvature of the fingerboard and the saddle alignment on your bridge.
- A smaller radius (e.g. 7.25") means a more curved fretboard.
- A larger radius (e.g. 12" or 14") is flatter.
- Most bridges also follow a matching curvature to ensure comfortable string height across the fretboard.
Why Should the Bridge and Neck Radius Match?
When the bridge radius matches the neck radius, each string maintains consistent action and even tension across the fretboard. If they don’t match, you might encounter:
- High outer strings (E and e) if the bridge is too curved.
- Buzzing middle strings (G and D) if the bridge is too flat.
Matching these two ensures smoother playability, cleaner fretting, and a more balanced feel during performance.
How to Check and Adjust the Radius
- Use a radius gauge to measure both your fretboard and bridge.
- If your bridge is adjustable (like Tune-o-Matic or Strat-style saddles), you can modify each saddle height to match the fretboard curve.
- For fixed-radius bridges, consider using shim adjustments or choosing a bridge model that more closely matches your neck radius.
What If the Radii Don’t Match Exactly?
Small differences — for example, a 9.5" neck and a 10" bridge — are usually manageable through careful setup and string height adjustment. However, larger mismatches can negatively impact playability and cause uneven string response.
Conclusion
Matching your bridge radius to your neck radius is essential for achieving optimal string action, comfortable playing feel, and clear, balanced tone. Whether you’re replacing a bridge or building a custom guitar, take the time to measure and align both radii for the best results.