Molly Ayala
Electric guitars with thin necks are popular among musicians with smaller hands as they offer a better grip and enable faster playability. While most music stores and manufacturers do not display neck measurements on their websites, some sources suggest that electric guitars with necks measuring under 0.807 (20.5 mm) from the first fret can be considered thin. Ibanez electric guitars with Wizard necks are said to have the thinnest necks, measuring as little as 0.669 (17 mm) from the first fret. Other notable mentions include the Fender Mustang, Squier American Ultra series, Gibson SG Modern, and Paul Reed Smith (PRS) SE Custom 24, all known for their slim neck profiles. These guitars offer a blend of comfort, speed, and versatility, catering to various musical genres and playing styles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric guitars with the thinnest necks | Ibanez RG series, Ibanez RGA42FM, Ibanez GRX70QA, Fender Mustang, Squier American Ultra/American Ultra Luxe series, Gibson SG Modern, Jackson Soloist SL2, Paul Reed Smith (PRS) SE Custom 24, Schecter Hellraiser C-1, ESP EC-1000 |
| Neck thickness | Generally, a neck thickness of under 0.807" (20.5mm) from the 1st fret can be considered thin. Ibanez Wizard necks can be as thin as 0.669" (17mm) from the 1st fret, with thicknesses ranging from 0.669" (17mm) to 0.787" (20mm). |
| Benefits of thin necks | Enhanced playability, easier for complex riffs or solos, comfortable grip, perfect for beginners and those with smaller hands, sleek look and feel |
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What You'll Learn
Ibanez RG series
The Ibanez RG series has been around for three decades, with the company continuously innovating to meet the unique demands of players. Ibanez offers a range of models within the RG series, catering to players of all levels, from beginners to masters. The series is known for its heavy-hitting performance and precision, making it a popular choice among metal enthusiasts.
One notable model within the RG series is the RG520QS, which features a Wizard neck with a thickness of 17mm at the 1st fret and 19mm at the 12th fret. However, some users have found the thin neck uncomfortable and prefer the later-year Ultra and Ultra Prestige profiles, which offer slightly thicker options ranging from 19.5mm to 21.5mm at the 1st and 12th frets.
Another model, the RGT3020 Prestige, features the "Ultra" neck, which is slightly thicker than the Wizard neck. The RGT Premium models have a thickness of 19-21mm, providing a comfortable option for those who find the Wizard neck too thin.
For those seeking an even thicker neck option within the Ibanez brand, the JEM and JS models are recommended. These models offer a comfortable neck profile without sacrificing speed and precision.
Overall, the Ibanez RG series is a popular choice for guitarists seeking super-thin necks, with the Wizard neck being the thinnest option available. However, personal preferences vary, and some guitarists may prefer slightly thicker necks for added comfort.
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Fender's Stratocaster
The Fender Stratocaster is a legendary electric guitar. While the classic Strat has a "C" shaped neck, the American Professional Stratocaster features a "Deep C" neck profile that is sleeker than the traditional "C" shape, offering comfort and faster playability.
The exact neck thickness can vary between different copies of the same model. The most common neck thickness for Fenders is 0.82" at the 1st fret and 0.87" at the 12th. The Vintera Modified, Deluxe Series, Standard Series, and American Standard Series all have these measurements. The Deluxe Series has a 12" fretboard radius, while the others have a 9.5" radius. The Classic Series neck is slightly thinner at the 1st fret (0.80") but thicker at the 12th (0.90"). The Classic 60's model is 0.82" at the 1st fret and 0.90" at the 12th.
If you're looking for a thinner neck, the Squier Affinity Strat and the Squier Classic Vibe necks are known to be on the thinner end. The Jimmie Vaughan signature model also has a soft V-shaped neck that feels pretty thin despite measuring relatively thick. For an even thinner option, the Warmoth Guitars "Wizard" neck profile is 0.75" at the 1st fret and 0.82" at the 12th, which is the thinnest option available.
Ultimately, the best way to find a comfortable neck is to go to a store and try out different guitars to see what feels best for you.
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Gibson SG
If you're looking for an electric guitar with a thin neck, there are several options to consider. One popular choice is the Ibanez RG series, known for its super-thin Wizard necks, which are designed for speed and precision. The neck's flat radius and jumbo frets make it ideal for fast soloing and intricate riffs. Another option is the Fender American Professional Stratocaster, which features a modern, slimmer "Deep C" neck profile that offers comfort and faster playability compared to the traditional "C" shape.
Now, if you're specifically interested in the Gibson SG, you'll be glad to know that it also offers a slim neck profile. The Gibson SG, known for its devilish horns and rich tones, has an asymmetric slim taper neck that provides ergonomic comfort and faster playability. The neck is made of mahogany with an ebony fingerboard, giving it a smooth feel. While the exact measurements are not provided, the slim taper neck design of the Gibson SG is highly regarded by guitarists.
One notable variant is the Limited Edition Gibson SG Xtra Slim 2015 in Heritage Cherry. As the name suggests, this model features an even thinner neck than the standard SG, making it ideal for those with smaller hands or those seeking improved ergonomics. The Xtra Slim neck provides smooth, fast action while maintaining solid feeling and stability. It also comes with a premium brown leather Gibson USA case.
The Gibson SG Special Faded in TV Yellow is another model mentioned for its slim profile neck. This particular colour variant was an export-only model and was not sold in the USA. The standard Gibson SG is also recommended as a good option, with one source suggesting it as a "sure thing". Additionally, the SG Supreme and Artist Sig models are mentioned, although it is noted that the additional cost may be for unnecessary features as the sound is the same across the line.
Overall, the Gibson SG is a popular choice for guitarists seeking a thin neck profile. While personal preferences vary, the slim taper neck of the SG is praised for its playability and comfort. Be sure to try it out and decide for yourself!
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Jackson Soloist SL2
Electric guitars with thin necks are often preferred by musicians with petite hands or those seeking faster playability and a more comfortable grip. Jackson, a brand synonymous with metal music, offers the Soloist SL2, a guitar that delivers not just a heavy sound but also ease of play.
The Jackson Soloist SL2 is crafted for rapid playing, with a slim neck that makes it effortless for both rhythm and lead playing. It features a neck-through-body construction, a method that involves extending the pieces of wood used for the neck through the entire length of the body. This construction type has been a Jackson hallmark since 1980 and allows for greater playability and sustain. The SL2's three-piece maple neck is reinforced with graphite for stability and to guard against temperature- and humidity-induced bending and warping.
The Jackson MJ Series Soloist SL2, crafted in Japan, blends the brand's legacy of designing high-performance instruments with top-tier features at a competitive price point. The SL2 is engineered for high-speed, virtuoso playing and offers a versatile sound, ultra-modern style, and Jackson's famed playability. It features an alder body and a 12"-16" compound radius bound ebony fingerboard with 24 jumbo frets, designed for highly technical lightspeed playing. The neck-through-body construction provides exceptional resonance and sustain, while the graphite reinforcement rods ensure stability and protect against warping.
The Jackson Pro Plus Series Soloist SL2 is a limited-edition electric guitar that combines cutting-edge design, premium craftsmanship, and unmatched playability. It features a sleek poplar body, delivering a balanced tone and excellent resonance for versatile play. The three-piece maple neck and ebony fingerboard with a 12"-16" compound radius enable effortless speed, bends, and technical precision. The Seymour Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo provide a dynamic tone and high-speed performance, making it a powerful tool for technical mastery.
The Jackson Soloist SL2 is available in the MJ Series and the Pro Plus Series. The MJ Series offers a classic metal style in Gloss Black or Snow White, with a colour-matched pointy headstock and black hardware. The Pro Plus Series also offers the Snow White finish and includes a Jackson gig bag for easy transport and protection. Both series feature the trademark Jackson neck-through-body construction, a slim neck for rapid playing, and graphite-reinforced necks for stability and resistance to warping.
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Paul Reed Smith (PRS) SE Custom 24
Electric guitars with thin necks are often sought after by players with smaller hands, or those seeking faster playability and a more comfortable grip. The Ibanez RG series is known for its super-thin necks, with the Wizard necks measuring as thin as 0.669" (17mm) from the first fret.
The Paul Reed Smith (PRS) SE Custom 24 is a guitar that exemplifies beauty and craftsmanship, featuring a "Wide Thin" neck profile. This neck design strikes a balance between comfort and speed, making it a versatile instrument capable of catering to multiple genres. The neck thickness of the PRS SE Custom 24 near the first fret is typically around 19.5mm to 21.2mm, while the thickness near the 12th fret is around 20.4mm to 23.2mm. The specific measurements can vary slightly between different copies of the same model.
The PRS SE Custom 24 is constructed with a beveled maple top and a mahogany back, contributing to its exceptional tone and aesthetics. The 85/15 "S" pickups further enhance its versatility, providing a broad tonal range. The guitar's playability is further improved by its patented molded tremolo bridge, which, in combination with its neck design, makes it a highly playable instrument.
The PRS SE Custom 24 is a modern classic that has gained recognition among internationally touring artists, gigging musicians, and aspiring players alike. Its roadworthy durability, addictive playability, and diverse range of tones make it a popular choice for musicians across various genres. The guitar's ability to cover a wide range of styles underscores its status as a "workhorse guitar."
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Frequently asked questions
Electric guitars with thin necks are popular among musicians with smaller hands, as they offer a better grip and faster playability. While the exact neck thickness can vary between different copies of the same model, here are some electric guitars known for their thin necks:
- Ibanez RG series
- Ibanez RGA42FM
- Fender Mustang
- Gibson SG Modern
- Jackson Soloist SL2
- Paul Reed Smith (PRS) SE Custom 24
- Schecter Hellraiser C-1
- ESP EC-1000 from the LTD line
- Squier American Ultra/American Ultra Luxe series
A guitar neck that measures under 0.807" (20.5mm) from the 1st fret can be considered a thin neck.
A thin neck on an electric guitar can offer faster playability and enhanced comfort, especially for those with smaller hands. They can also be beneficial for intricate riffs and complex solos.
While thin necks can provide benefits, some guitarists may prefer thicker necks for certain playing styles or genres. Thicker necks can provide a fuller grip and may be better suited for chords or rhythm playing. Ultimately, the preference for neck thickness depends on the individual player's hand size, playing style, and comfort level.
The choice between a thin or thick neck comes down to personal preference and playing style. It is recommended to test out different guitars with varying neck thicknesses to find the right fit. Consider factors such as hand size, playing experience, and the type of music you want to play. Visiting a guitar store and trying out different models can help you determine the neck thickness that feels most comfortable and suits your playing needs.
