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.
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A smaller radius (e.g. 7.25") means a more curved fretboard.
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A larger radius (e.g. 12", 14") is flatter.
Most bridges also follow a curvature to ensure comfortable string height across the fretboard.
🔍 Why Should They Match?
When the bridge radius matches the neck radius, each string has even action and feels consistent across the fretboard. If they don’t match, you might face:
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High outer strings (E and e) or
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Buzzing middle strings (G, D) depending on whether the bridge is too flat or too curved.
🛠 How to Check and Adjust
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Use a radius gauge to measure your fretboard and bridge.
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If the bridge is adjustable (e.g., tune-o-matic or strat saddles), you can modify each saddle to match the radius.
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Fixed-radius bridges may need shim adjustments or choosing a model that better matches your neck.
🎸 What If They’re Not Exactly the Same?
Small differences (like 9.5" neck and 10" bridge) are usually manageable with setup tweaks. But larger gaps can affect playability.
✅ Conclusion
Matching your bridge radius to your neck radius is key to optimal string action, better comfort, and cleaner tone. If you're swapping bridges or building your own guitar, take the time to measure and align both radii.
