StewMac offers an online tool that precisely calculates fret positions for various stringed instruments. This tool allows luthiers and instrument builders to accurately determine the correct placement of frets on the fingerboard, ensuring proper intonation and playability. For example, the calculator can be used to determine fret spacing for instruments with different scale lengths, numbers of frets, and even compensation for string gauge and other factors.
Accurate fret placement is crucial for the proper intonation and playability of any stringed instrument. Without precise calculations, an instrument can sound out of tune even when played with correct fingering. This online resource simplifies a historically complex and meticulous process, making it easier for builders of all skill levels to achieve professional results. It eliminates the potential for mathematical errors and provides a reliable, consistent method for determining fret locations, contributing significantly to the efficiency and accuracy of instrument construction.