Set neck vs bolt-on neck vs thru-neck: what's the difference and does it matter?
When it comes to electric guitars, one of the biggest differences you will see between different models is the type of neck joint. There are three main types: set neck, bolt-on neck, and thru-neck. Each has its own unique characteristics and advantages.
A set neck is a neck that is glued into the guitar body. This type of construction (some would argue) provides excellent sustain and resonance, as the neck and body are essentially one solid piece. Set necks are often found on guitars like the Gibson Les Paul and SG.
A bolt-on neck, on the other hand, is attached to the guitar body either with self-tapping wood screws - as in the case of Fender and others, or - as in the case of our guitars - with heavy duty machine bolts that mate with tee-nuts embedded between the neck heel and the fretboard. Fender introduced the idea of a bolt-on neck as a way to achieve cost efficiencies in production, but it also makes replacing, repairing or adjusting necks much easier. With wood screw-attached necks, you just have to be careful about how many times you detach and reattach the neck as the screw holes can become stripped - something our bolt and tee-nut design avoids altogether.
Finally, there's the thru-neck, which is a neck that extends all the way through the guitar body. This type of construction provides the most sustain and resonance of all, and it's often found on high-end guitars. Thru-necks are also the most difficult to repair or replace, so they require more care and attention.
So, does it matter which type of neck construction you choose? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and playing style. If you're looking for maximum sustain and resonance, a set neck or thru-neck may be the way to go. If you prefer a brighter, more articulate tone, a bolt-on neck may be a better choice.
