Asymmetrical Guitar Neck Review || (the truth about asymmetrical guitar necks)

Just a little controversial monologue about one of the guitar industry's least
embraced "good Ideas" . Or, is a it a good idea? These are my thoughts and opinions on a subject that has intrigued me for years. Let me know what you think and share it with your friends!
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[@user-fy5es5ol1r]

Excellent. I’ve been shopping guitars and have considered points like: sound, looks, price, value for the money and just having something interesting that I will want to play. But though these are important, I keep coming back to the main truth, that for me, it is the “feel” of the guitar in my hand that could have the most impact as to continued satisfaction in owning and re-sale of the instrument. I don’t have the money to buy the guitars that really feel best or the knowledge about the ones online to make me comfortable in making a purchase I can be happy with right now. I thought I would do more research into what can make guitar feel more comfortable to play. Most of the information I have seen on guitar necks is technical. Although it is good, it is not enough to fill in all the knowledge gaps that a seller can’t explain but is important when making a purchase. For example, I saw videos on KZbin about a guitar that was cheap, looked good and sounded good enough to interest me. But when the reviewer said the neck felt “chunky” I knew I would not really be happy owning it without some how modifying the neck. This lead me to your video, which felt more practical and thoughtful. Thank you for not wasting my time trying to be cool and hip or use foul language. You just helped me. That was the right thing. Most of all this is the kind of info I’m needing to make better decisions on how to purchase a guitar. Good luck and continue in making even better videos.

[@LukeWalstead]

Hey, it's great to hear from someone who is getting something out of my nerdier side! Much appreciated!! 👍👍

[@privatefrey7876]

Thanks. I thought they were thinner on the treble side. You Saved my butt dude!! And $400

[@massimozirilli3282]

You are soooo right! I am about to build a custom guitar and I was looking for a video talking EXACTLY about this! Thanks

[@LukeWalstead]

You're very welcome, thanks for the comment!

[@rashadsultan]

same dude.

[@balintnemeth422]

That's actually a really great revelation. I'm actually in the process of designing a guitar that I'm going to build (not as a partscaster, but actually by hand) and I'm just modeling the neck right this moment and implemented asymmetrical neck profile parameters to it. I haven't actually played one yet, but this really makes a lot of sense and a thicker treble side would be way better for my playing as well, so thank you!

[@LukeWalstead]

Happy to help and good luck!

[@mohitrahaman]

This blew my mind. This can be a general math problem.

[@memesupreme4338]

THANK you so much for this video. I play my guitar low and you just helped me decide on an asymmetrical neck profile with my warmoth build - I hadn't had an opportunity to try one but the way you explained it really helps!

[@toddmayer6859]

So glad I just came across your video! I have an Epi Dot neck that I was about to shave down a bit on the shoulders to more of a C. But the asymmetrical shape made me wonder if that wouldn't be far better. I'm 73 and cannot stand for long periods of time. I play my guitars in a seated position. So your explanation of how thinner shoulder on the bass side makes sense. That is actually where the Dot neck feels too chunky .... at the bass side. Thanks so much for the great info! By the way, I think that Warmouth could help a lot of serious guitar players find their ideal neck shape by having one body, like their contoured Tele body, with several necks that are interchangeable. The guitarist can then install one neck after another to find the one that is most ideal for him or her. Then Warmoth could send that person possibly 3 variations of that neck. Something like the optometrist switching from one lens to another, asking you if this is better ... or that. For me, I love a neck shape that agrees with my fretting hand .... and hate a neck shape that hurts my hand and wrist. One size does not fit all ... Custom fit necks .... we need that ...

[@LukeWalstead]

So glad to be of help, that's the whole reason I made this video. And I don't know if they'd ever go for it but I love your idea!

[@ericthorpe9449]

in the future, actual drawings or using the actual guitar neck are preferable to using your hand as a guide, would help the process, it would help me to understand earlier than later. I dig your passion and you have my mental gears in motion, thank you!!

[@lexrex8121]

So glad I watched this video. You are spot on, your reasoning is based on logic. It’s not a matter of opinion, you are simply making a matter of fact observation.

[@LukeWalstead]

Tell that to the people who got pissed that I made this video! 🤣

[@larryheller6963]

I was (am?) considering buying a Gibson LP Modern and wasn't sure why an asymmetrical neck was "good", or even exactly what it is, and after watching your great explanation, now I am thinking it probably isn't for me since I play sitting down. Am so glad I watched your video before I plunked down $3,000!

[@LukeWalstead]

You're story is EXACTLY why I made this video!! I'm so happy I was able to help you. Cheers!

[@normbarrows]

I've experimented with many neck profiles including asymmetric and diagonal spine, and have found a truncated trapezoid to be quite nice - minimal cross sectional area with adequate strength - works for left handed, right handed, up high on your chest, or slung down low - not concave, scalloped, or fluted, so it has a smooth circumference.

[@LukeWalstead]

I'm really curious to learn more about this, can you recommend some videos, websites, books etc?

[@ImpostorModanica]

Any link to this neck?

[@jacqueslapidieux3182]

What the world needs now. An original out-of-the-box thinker, debunking long-held views with only brilliant reasoning (if not perfect clarity!). Getting me one of these reverse carve necks soonly...

[@LukeWalstead]

Glad to help! I have been thinking this video could use an update/facelift. It looks like I filmed it on a potato haha

[@richardinnis215]

Hey Luke great article I've been playing guitar 58 years and experimented and played mini guitars in that time. I play with a plectrum and also some Pickin finger*I like the idea of a neck reduction on the base side of the neck for it can allow extended finger positions for extended i'm not sure about string building but I have a bolt on Paul Reed Smith that I'm considering reducing the base side of the neck although of course with great caution as it is not a cheap guitar if you play Travis Style thumb picking and use yourthumb to form chords with your left hand you may find some distinct advantages for this style of reduction great idea and kudos for thinking out of the box

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you!

[@faisletoismeme]

Definitely something to try out on some of my next builds. Thanks for your input.

[@LukeWalstead]

👍👍

[@bobravenscraft5376]

The others you mentioned have songs on the radio. If shred is all we have I listen to myself sweep

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you for the comment, however I am slightly confused by it 😬

[@wyckofury2198]

If your thumb is sticking out above your neck then assymetrical (thicker on bass side) shape follows the curve of your hand. Slung low or high doesn’t matter as much as where you position your thumb IMO. Bias alert - Warmoth SRV profile works pretty well for me.

[@LukeWalstead]

I agree about the thumb but, the height of your strap relative to your elbow does determine whether your thumb is extended above or not. Different strap heights encourage different hand placements which is why I mentioned it as the root metric driving your hand position and therefore, which shape is potentially most comfortable for you. Cheers!

[@juandaza000]

If you’re the type of guitar player that use the left thumb to play chords, a-la Hendrix Style, having the guitar a LITTLE (or as much as you need) lower, it’s gonna help consistently, big time. A lot of MI teachers will tell you about this, will teach this way, so, learning from other teachers help us teach better. Also, not only for chords with thumb (also like John Mayer in both acoustic/electric guitars), but for dampening the 6th and/or 5th string as needed. Of course, this depends on the genre, ‘cause certain styles only (or mostly) sound good this way, and developing this is ANOTHER technique that you’ll have to develop. Some amateurs or people that are less experienced, think that using the left thumb is a lack or bad technique: so wrong. Using this technique means that you’ll have to spend more hours practicing standing up, your hands will learn how to stretch and take your body to new levels, different from the comfort of being seated all the time.

[@LukeWalstead]

I agree with all of that, however I didn't use Hendrix or Mayer as examples because they play the guitar WAY higher than Page and he's the one known for shaving down the treble side of the neck. And again, it's all about personal preference for neck height (everyone's hung up on the FACT that lower=cooler and that fact is actually important for rock stars 🤘) relative to your elbows. The fact again remains that the lower positioning came about first as a facet of rebelling against norms and "authority" and was only then followed by the development of thumb-over technique, and that followed by asymmetrical neck profiles to assist in those techniques in that position. It's not really a historical question, but bring up the history and people get kind of touchy as if you're saying that they're using bad technique - not what I was saying. There's a difference between why something was developed historically (rebellion and a certain look) and why it stuck around (uniquely helpful for certain styles and the look is still cool.) For personal context, my 5 favorite electric players in order are Mayer, Hendrix, SRV, Satriani and BB King. But 4 of those guys have HUGE hands and I... well I just don't. So to play the same stuff I have to get the guitar WAY higher and use "proper" technique. I look like a schmuck doing it, but I can actually play anything I want when I do so. Which come to think of it, maybe there's a damn good reason why over 150 years of guitar pedagogy has consistently taught students to keep the guitar higher and more angled than my favorite players: it's because it works best for average people. Cheers

[@krisross1326]

Loads of great information in this video. Really impressed ☺️

[@LukeWalstead]

I'm glad you found it helpful!

[@kellybotha696]

Thank you for answering so many questions I had all in one video.

[@LukeWalstead]

Glad to help!

[@davidiancustomguitars7831]

Great! Thanks for sharing!

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you for the compliment!

[@brokenrobot2276]

Thankyou! Couldn't figure out what was hurting my arm so much.

[@LukeWalstead]

You're welcome! Glad to help

[@twistdmojo]

My Carvin BB70P is the most comfortable neck I've ever played. And it has the typical asymmetrical neck. And I don't play my bass hanging low.

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, to each their own. I definitely won't dispute what you're saying. And it's interesting to hear the perspective of a bassist as I wonder about the difference in left hand mechanics between the two instruments. Thanks for the input!

[@macman9831]

Thank you. Very good points.

[@LukeWalstead]

Glad you found it helpful!

[@macman9831]

@@LukeWalstead you also explained why Jimmy Page was good in the studio and lame on stage. I saw him live. I know.

[@raylenelomas5241]

Liked this article. I have been building acoustic and electric guitars for a while and have adopted a "compromise" position. Most guitarist seem to play with a guitar position that is somewhere between the extremes of high or low-short strap or long strap. I am building what I call helical asymmetrical necks or raised and lowered assymetrical necks. That is thicker on the bass side at headstock end and thicker on the treble side at the heel end. No matter how a guitarist's wrist is positioned at the headstock end one thing always happens as they move to the heel end - the wrist always rolls down, hence the thicker neck on the treble side. The thicker section of the neck is helical and naturally rolls the hand under as you advance towards the heel and so puts to hand and wrist in the correct playing position. Just another line of thought to add to the under-discussed topic of assymetrical necks.

[@LukeWalstead]

That's a pretty brilliant neck design! I'd love to try it

[@jeffpribyl1668]

Very interesting. Your concept makes total sense. I see a comparison with the ergonomics of fanned fret guitars, where the the hand naturally changes position as it moves up the neck.

[@mschafft1358]

So if you play with a medium size strap a regular symmetrical neck is the middle-ground to go for.

[@LukeWalstead]

I think that "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" is a very good way to go. But, if we're speaking technically on what is the absolute best in ergonomic comfort, I think a thin bass-side asymmetry is more fundamentally ergonomic in all but the lowest strap positions as it mirrors the actual shape of the human hand. Again, only one of my guitars is built that way and it's not like I have trouble with the symmetrical ones. It just that when directly comparing the specific opposites of asymmetrical design, each has their particular place and strengths, which is what I hope I explained well in the video. But, in an effort to not immediately make a large majority of viewers click away, I tried to not openly say the entirety what I actually think which is: unless you're slinging your guitar low enough that the top edge is level with your b@%#$, a thin bass-side asymmetry is far and away the most ergonomic and comfortable guitar shape in any other position. I know it sounds too extreme but that's the plain and simple truth. Your thumb angle is more comfortable and your fingers have far more lateral support for bends and big stretches in that configuration.

[@TomTheWise_]

Mind = Blown

[@JK-up7vz]

Hi Luke! Thank you very much for this. I am working on a strat build and am planning to order a Warmoth neck and got a bit lost in the neck profile rabbit hole. I was thinking about the asymmetrical D- shape "SRV"neck but because of your explanation, I am now thinking of ordering the left/ reversed headstock version of this. Is that also the one you ordered? Any difference in tonality? I live in Holland so will be dealing with about a two month lead-time, with SS frets, I will probably have to get them "plecked / levelled etc. So a lot of money and time and because of that a bit anxious on pulling the trigger. Any extra tips and insights that might help? I am a couch player, mostly sitting down or when standing, hanging high on the shoulders. Thanks in advance!!

[@LukeWalstead]

Hey, glad to help! Yes, that's the profile I bought. My neck has the gold frets and I didn't pay for any extra leveling/plecked, only whatever work is standard on a finished neck. It's been great and I've had no issues with fret levels or the quality of the dressing. Plus, that stuff could be perfect from the factory but 12 months later might need a bit of attention due to neck shrinkage due to the environment you have it in. The only thing I would advise going in is expect a little bit of work getting everything to fit and play perfectly. You might need to shim the neck (I did) to get the right angle or lightly sand the neck pocket to get the heel fully seated. Don't feel bad if it doesn't slide together like perfect CNCed aluminum parts or something. Wood is finicky and needs the touch of human hands and a careful eye to get everything right. And maybe finally, an asymmetrical neck like you're thinking won't make you play better, it'll just make you more comfortable 😉🤘 Let me know how it goes!

[@JK-up7vz]

@@LukeWalstead Thank you so much for your reply. I have been going back and forth between my “modern C” strat and “ soft V” tele. I gravitate towards the soft V more on the higher strings but feel less comfortable with the thumb over neck playing. Your video very well explained which neck to buy to feel comfortable with both and I would have never come up with this reversed headstock approach. I will go for that and will keep you posted!! Thanks again!

[@rickmoore7501]

great video Luke, i'm ordering a warmoth neck wolfgang profile for my tele but it will be a Gibson conversion neck, anything i need to know relative to your theory, i keep my strap hight in the middle, not high and not low, i also put my thumb over the top, would you still keep it thicker on the treble side given this scenario and the fact that it will be gibson scale, thanks Luke, i only get one shot at this. I subscribed.

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, to be honest, yes I would still go thicker on the treble. I am in the mid range hight wise, use my thumb over the top fairly often and I wouldn't trade the "upside-down asymmetrical" ergonomics for anything. Also, I don't think the scale length will cause an issue. BUT - I absolutely CANNOT guarantee that you will like your neck if you do it that way. The melding of hand to neck is such unique chemistry from player to player it is impossible to know whether something will fit or not. Now, after covering my backside lol, I should also say that after checking my Jazzmaster neck, I actually have an SRV cut neck, not a Wolfgang as I have incorrectly stated before in the comments. However, I would have no reservations about choosing the more aggressive Wolfgang in the future after my experience with the SRV. Actually, I wish I had gone with the Wolfgang in hindsight! Hope that helps, please let me know how it goes once you have it all done!

[@RekEighty]

I've tried both asymmetrical necks before high E and low E profiles, low slung and high slung strapped guitars. Personally they're just not for me at all. They give me carpel tunnel bad especially when it's thicker on the low E string. My thumb would get numb and hurt. I've found a like a flatter C profile but I like it to be thinner than most and even thickness all the way through the neck. I don't care for necks that are thicker at the 1st and taper down to the 12th. It's comfortable for me no fatigue or carpel tunnel and I can play faster and get in and out of things with ease. I've carved a lot of my necks this way and it's opened up my playing more.

[@LukeWalstead]

@Rek_80 Very interesting and thank you for sharing! I love hearing other people's stories and perspectives on gear and design. I think there are far too many superlatives surrounding advertising and education. There's more than one thing that works and people are so varied. It's amazing to me when people get upset hearing a story like yours and want to argue with you and prove you're wrong. Everybody is different and what works for you and what you like is different than me. What's wrong with that? All that to say, I appreciate that you don't have the same view as me and hopefully your perspective will help other players like mine has. Are there any production necks out there that are at least close to what you're describing? Anything to point other players to who might be in the same boat as you? I know the Hagstrom ultralux necks are unbelievably thin with no depth taper. I didn't care for it long term but, you all know where my preferences lie at this point 😂

[@AmerikkkaGuitars]

Great video and insight, really helpful for guitar design. Building custom necks for my guitar line, with both asymmetric profiles. 1st fret bass thicker, treble thin, 16th fret bass thin, treble thick.

[@LukeWalstead]

Interesting design choices for sure!

[@dadudezpr]

Instant follower !!!

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you!

[@goodwill559]

Thank you - I don't feel alone having the same opinion ❤ I came to the same conclusion after playing a strandberg Endurneck and thinking it would be better with the thicker facet on the treble side but I have never had the chance to play an asymmetrical neck with a thinner bass side. also, kudos for mentioning the elbows as a reference point 🎉

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you!

[@rodrigojimenezdearechaga3913]

Hy luke. Very interesting . Can you please write for me the name of this artist you v being talking about . One more thing : this “atypical” reverse neck profile , which you understand better for “not so down positioned playing “ , you thing is better or worse for musicans who use their left thump for bases ?

[@LukeWalstead]

Tosin Abasi I am not sure if it would be a good fit, it is a case by case fitment thing.

[@diegopadovani4942]

What do you think about V shaped profiles? I'm planning to build a guitar and that would be nice to know. Ty for the video.

[@LukeWalstead]

I think they are great for bending! You can generate a lot of torque and they can help to really maximize your strength. Which is important if you're trying to use massive strings SRV style.

[@miked3317]

very interresting!

[@bradrapp3697]

Personally I prefer the old Gibson slim taper necks. People prefer chunkier these days. As long as the neck and frets are level it doesn’t really matter. You adapt.

[@LukeWalstead]

Fair point

[@dadudezpr]

Dude your are right !!! I’m left handed and love right handed necks but I play low my strap . I know you are right cuz I like the contrary , btw I also order from warmoth lol

[@LukeWalstead]

Nice!

[@meself349]

To me it also makes more sense to have the thinness on the bass rather than the treble side because your thumb is shorter than your other fingers and especially if you want to do thumb over Hendrix type chords it would be more comfortable

[@LukeWalstead]

For sure! If you play really low that might not be true but for mid and high players it's Dynamite.

[@colinmccall6525]

I was thinking the exact same thing when I ran across this video. If I take my hand and place my index finger flat and touch my thumb on my neck hand and look at the gap it creates. It creates a teardrop form with the narrowest point at my finger and thumb tip or bass side of feet board and the teardrop or roundest part is where the high E and B strings are.. so why would I want more neck material on the bass side?.. I’m building a custom Franky and going over and over the neck specs in my head.. I guess I’m not crazy.

[@LukeWalstead]

No sir, you are not crazy!

[@wayneosman8971]

Luke, I hope your explanation of Asymmetrical Guitar Neck goes over well. Keep in mind our dedicated guitar industry only wants to make and sell guitars based on whom and what model guitar will produce the maximum amount of sales. Guitar manufacturers don't care their bottom line is profit at all cost. Then there is the Luthier, an unappreciated tradesman, who by far knows what needs to be done for his or her client, and keeping in mind, he or she might just be a "hack", and will inevitably ruin your guitar. Then there are armature guitarists, seemingly too cheap to spend money for sound advice, and go about trying to understand a trade without first being educated on the fine art of the Luthier trade. In other words all humans want the easy way out and never or fail to get a complete education. Then they either claim expertise or worse fall into that category of starting businesses as Tradesmen of repair or musician and for that matter it could be any Profession from Acupuncture to Zeppelin making, providing the State or Country hasn't gotten around to licensing them first. Case in point forensics, many States still don't require Licensed Forensics Experts, and often choose Morticians or worse a "Local butcher", to store and or to form conclusions as to the reason of death. I bet that shocked the Hell of a few people, still it's true and at least 20 States still carry out this practice. Now getting back to your point, we are human and just saying that upsets me, we would rather take and use advice from Facebook or KZbin, than actually start from the beginning and learn properly, (I include myself shamefully to this awful practice too). Often I find myself at odds with many companies who would rather sell anything for profit, then later claim that, I, or you, the buyer never mentioned or asked for something specifically. While the seller actually knew we were not expertise guitarists and also the seller were not really knowledgeable salesmen or saleswomen. So in fact we are left at the mercy of the question, which is "Can You Help Me". I have pondered this my entire life and often lost because, the question you posed, Asymmetrical was never really understood until now, meaning recently over the past several years. We still can't actually find what we want because until we actually find qualified salespeople or luthiers, we will continue to do what you have done. There have been newer guitar neck to body designs and I have played several Gibson Les Paul models with very easy to play comfortable asymmetrical necks. I own a 2013 USA Fender American Standard Stratocaster that does have a stock asymmetrical neck shape but is not sold or listed as asymmetrical. The neck dilemma is ongoing, yet I will find it hard to find a competent Luthier actually willing to reshape my acoustic Gibson's or Guild willingly. P.S I enjoyed your video, by the way it will always be a problem as long as people choose to listen to the salesmen. I subscribed, clicked the bell, and choose all your videos. Thank you

[@LukeWalstead]

Thank you for writing such a thoughtful comment and for subscribing to the channel! I agree completely with your thoughts on the industry and on people's aversion to thorough and complete education. I think another compounding issue is the unique nature of every player and the freedom of technique within the playing community. Especially with regard to electric guitar. For true specialization of design, there is always a necessary byproduct of increasing incompatibility with certain end users. A neck designed to perfectly fit one type player will by necessity be perfectly incompatible with players of a different type. This specialization increases cost and diminishes the mass appeal of the end product. Now, this may be broadly true of the electric guitar but it is less so, in my opinion, of the steel string acoustic guitar. I would cite the Takamine guitar company's asymmetrical guitar neck as evidence of this being the case. Due to the increased size of the acoustic guitar, playing positions tend to vary less and therefore, there is less of a decrease in compatibility for a more specialized design intended for the majority of players. But all this is speculation based on experience and it's difficult to empirically prove these kinds of theories without hard data, of which I don't know to even exist in any recorded form such as published findings from a "clinical" study. But I love thinking and talking about it just the same! I would love to speak with a couple CEOs and design boards about these ideas and get their feedback, both on the commercial viability and on the soundness of my theories from a end user perspective. Cheers!

[@MrPhotomiked]

i now know what i will order from Warmoth next! I play sitting down or even standing up with the guitar in front of my chest. This makes perfect sense even when using the thumb-over Stevie style!

[@mikeg3660]

Really interesting

[@EothaG]

I'm ashamed to admit that reversing the symmetry is a new idea to me! The idea has never crossed my mind. I have a Warmoth build with a wolfgang neck profile on it. I love it but I'm super curious to experience the reverse. I don't play with my guitar slung way low anyway but I just tried slinging it down real low and I can feel the comfort of the wolfgang. Thanks for your video!

[@LukeWalstead]

Happy to help!

[@kokeskokeskokes]

If I have 100 yo guitar with cracked and repaired original spruce top. Will it sound better still if I replace the cracked top plate with 350 yo spruce from my attic? The slabs seem a bit bulky for a guitar, I was saving them for a D base and similar. About one meter in width each and pretty long, and thick, rat chewed through here and there.

[@LukeWalstead]

Oh man! That's way above my knowledge and expertise. I understand a bit about guitar design but I could not answer on tone wood and replacing the top on the guitar... It seems like it would also be a very subjective situation. You'd have to look at the exact guitar and the exact pieces of wood that you're thinking of using. And if they're on the thick side you would be sanding them down by hand carving and tap tuning.

[@kokeskokeskokes]

I just bought a Bavarian guitar from 30s (late 20s?) with asymmetrical neck, thinner top. It is very comfortable.

[@LukeWalstead]

Oh man I would love to get my hands on an instrument like that!

[@kokeskokeskokes]

@@LukeWalstead I have seen only very few online, and I am unsure of their necks. Walthari Mittenwald. Mine is in Prague. It is high end, without dots, laminated neck 5 pcs off center toward body. Maple flaming all over back and sides. I love her. She keeps inviting me but she is so loud. I will keep her as original as possible. And the house. Hopefully. It is far away.

[@donjoseph73]

I got a Wolfgang standard great guitar but like any mid priced guitar be ready to do a full on set up. The QC control from the ones made by fender is ridiculously bad. That why fender split from music man. They didn’t want to spend what was needed for quality control. And it shows!! My Sterling guitar is a jewel! Te requiring me to do a mild setup especially because I play 9’s . The Wolfgang was atrociously bad. Had to shim to get the bridge totally decked. Neck came misaligned, it was just ridiculous. Great guitar once you work all the bugs out though!!

[@LukeWalstead]

I wish more people understood how many guitars need setup work out of the box.

[@calliopenation3174]

You knew? You did! I agree that a picture is worth a thousand words but you did explain it well in the end. Third time's a charm!

[@sixpenske1940]

Your points make alot of sense which would maybe explain why i love my Sterling axis neck so much i tend to have my strap set not to low not so high i would say the body of my guitar sits at stomach level and it is very comfortable for me to play also to take in consideration is the angle of the cut in the neck which i think it isnt to extreme on my guitar as well. Thank you for explaining this the way you did it is good food for thought when shopping for a guitar with an asymmetrical neck.

[@LukeWalstead]

Glad to hear that you found the video helpful! That was my goal in examining this topic: helping potential guitar buyers see the big picture. It's hard to be exhaustive without being annoying but, I figured that if I hit the main points clearly then people could get something out of it to help them make their next purchase. Cheers!

[@trevorclarey3336]

I got all shape necks after 20 mins of playing you don't notice.

[@LukeWalstead]

It really depends on how you play. I use a LOT of big chords and strange shapes. So after 20 mins I notice with my Jazzmaster that I don't get the same level of fatigue.

[@jjc9882]

Hi noob question here, if you play with your thumb over, like Jimi Hendrix, SVR, and John Mayer wouldn't you need thinner on the treble side regardless of how low or high you held the guitar?

[@LukeWalstead]

So, I replied to your comment last night and realized I had totally misunderstood your question. You make a good point however, it really depends on how much of your thumb is going over the top of the fingerboard and how much of your playing time is spent in that position. This of course is connected to how high the guitar is on your torso because the lower it is the farther your thumb will comfortably extend over the top of the fingerboard and the more likely you are to spend significant playing time in that position.

[@taewankim6283]

I will get back to you.

[@LukeWalstead]

👍

[@なんて悪い名前だ]

Hi Luke, I have never seen your channel before, I just looked up asymmetrical necks, as I wanted to know in general, if there was only one ¨correct¨ way to either take more wood away from either bass or treble side, and I am actually very glad that someone who is an actual musician such as Tosin and yourself that even teaches ergo has more experience with seeing details in the way someone plays and escalates learning and improving their ability, has noticed that a thinner bass side is a good idea, as it is exactly what I thought! And your argument about the wrist being flexed or extended is extremely accurate!(I am jr doctor )

[@LukeWalstead]

Thanks for the comment and I appreciate the compliments! I made the video to help fill in what I think is a large gap in the accepted understanding of the guitar community. So it's great to hear feedback. 🙂 Cheers!

[@なんて悪い名前だ]

By the way! What are your thoughts on having a thinner treble side at the first frets of the neck and that transitions into a symmetrical shape at the ¨middle¨ ending the very last frets with a thinner treble side? I come from playing classical guitar and I have made some experimentation, and while taste varies according to one´s style, I think ergonomically speaking this would be a very accordingly thought shape for how the wrist and hand articualtions work. Let me know your thoughts if possible! Happy new year too!

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, I think based on the lower frets being higher (relative to your torso) you might be better served to go the other way around. Or maybe I'm just overthinking it 🤣 I know there's been some pretty cool multi-profile necks designed for fan fret extended range guitars. Maybe that community could be a good resource for proof of concept.

[@seanmagill1649]

Truly thank you for this info Luke! If I may, I wonder if you give me some wisdom. I have hands the size of a child, part of being 5’6”, and my playing involves stretched, open complex chords. Any recommendations for shape, radius, thickness, width?

[@LukeWalstead]

It's hard to make recommendations that aren't heavily qualified, especially for someone I don't know. But a few production line options that you might consider. #1 Bedell Guitars. I own two of their acoustics and they have a narrow string spacing, a narrow neck width and a small symmetrical C-shape that I find very comfortable. I have smallish hands for a 5'11" man and it's perfect for me. Arguments about asymmetry aside, it's one of my all-time favorite necks I've ever played. #2 Takamine Guitars. I don't believe that all or even most of their product line features asymmetrical necks but I know that some of them do. And the asymmetry that they use is the thin bass to thick treble "upside down" asymmetrical profile like I'm recommending in the video. I've only played one like that maybe once in my life and I liked it, but it is a fairly subtle profile. Definitely worth putting your hands on. #3 Hagstrom ultralux necks. Bar none: the absolute thinnest neck profile I've ever seen, and that saying a lot! They use a special I-beam truss rod that I believe was developed specifically by them. It's so thin as to be borderline uncomfortable for my size hands. Definitely very unique and worth checking out if you can find one locally. If you'd like to chat about it further, hit me up through my website. I'm always happy to help people who genuinely want my expertise. Cheers!

[@joehahn8817]

Makes sense. What sucks is I hang my guitar at an in-between height so neither one works for me😕. Love them Slim-Taper necks though!!! Well, I just dropped the strap that I use for my Flying-V(asymmetrical neck) about four inches. What a difference!!! That little bit of enlightenment just helped me decide not to sell it...Thank you!!!

[@LukeWalstead]

That's actually a great story to share regarding your flying V. Matching the strap height to the neck contour is really important when you start dealing with asymmetrical profiles. Thanks for sharing!

[@visionop8]

I've got large hands (palming a basketball is easy) so I cant tell the difference between my Fenders and Gibsons with "asymmetrical" necks from my Jackson and ESPs with ultra thin U necks. My ESP with a soft V neck is the only one that stands out to me at all. It actually feels very different to my hand. All the others might as well be the same guitar to me. Of course there are differences in string spacing and blah blah but they all feel the same to me.

[@LukeWalstead]

I've kinda been wondering what someone with Hendrix sized mitts would think about it - now I know!

[@peanutbutterjelly7370]

I can see how that would be comfortable for a player w/ good tech. I'm a total thumb over the top blues player. The problem is when I try to play those sparkly hendrix chords, I often end up muting some strings b/c my fingers are laying too flat. I think a "classic" SRV carve, or better yet, a thick boat shape soft vee, would help give my fingers a steeper angle of attack by putting the meat of the neck against the webbing between my thumb & index finger. Guess there's only 1 way to find out. Thanks 4 the vid!

[@LukeWalstead]

Every player is different and that's the wonderful thing about different neck shapes - there's something for everyone!

[@cristianku75]

Interesting !

[@LukeWalstead]

Glad you think so!

[@Pipemejia97]

For me it's really more comfortable to play lower and have this freedom with my guitar mobility, i think is the habit or the technique. when i play sort of tom morello style is easier to play chords.. or sweep picking maybe, but it hurts in my upper back(to me), so maybe you may reconsider what you think about long straps positions because we're all just really different bodies

[@LukeWalstead]

I appreciate your perspective! So, I see what you're saying but I think that strap hight must be adjusted in accordance with the guitar's right/left orientation on your torso as well as the upward tilt of the neck. If one or more of these other considerations is ignored when adjusting strap hight you are pretty likely to cause discomfort in your picking arm and upper back. It's not simply a matter of everyone's body being different, it's a matter of the other aspects I mentioned in addition to the strap hight and neck symmetery but, that would be too go far beyond the scope of the video. All that aside, each player needs to find what they like and what works for them. Cheers!

[@Pipemejia97]

​@@LukeWalstead Thanks! you're completely right, and very very thanks for the video, it has been just so difficult for me to find a right strap hight because my back problems, but sure that my rounded asym neck has been a blessing for my left hand. Awesome explanation. ✌🏻🍻

[@bigdbearkiller5115]

DING, DING, DING, DING!!! ABSOLUTELY CORRECT! We have a winner Johnny. Tell him what he won. O.k. Ron. Luke you have won nothing except the satisfaction of knowing that you are right and someone else is trying to get the same point across to other brothers in the guitar playing world.

[@LukeWalstead]

😂😂😂😂😂 Not gonna lie, I had to read through this a few times to get what you were saying. I'm thinking "Is this guy making fun of me, is he just a nut job???" But then I got it and thank you for the compliment! (And, you made me laugh) I'm glad I'm not the only one with this perspective and I hope there is more transparency regarding design in the industry in the coming years.

[@tombstone1440]

Hey Luke... I was unfamiliar with Asymmetrical necks until I bought an Epiphone SG. Although the guitar checked all the boxes I definitely don't like the neck. Didn't know why it was so uncomfortable until I watched your video. Thanks very much for the info. I never play low, so bummer. Looks like this one will go straight to Reverb and my quest for the grail guitar will continue.

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, I'm sorry to hear that it didn't work out with that guitar but, I'm really happy to help you figure out what you want. Best of luck on your quest for the grail!

[@piemmetubo]

Thank you sooooo much for your explanation! I'm going to modify a Telecaster that I built two years ago with a Harley Benton kit. I will ergonomically shape the body like a Strat and make the neck asymmetrical. Before watching your video I was planning to make thinner the "lower" side of the neck, but you literally turned my plan upside down. 😂

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, hopefully after all your hard work you'll find it plays the way you want.

[@Drew-gm4sy]

Hey Luke! I just found this video and it was exactly what I was looking for! What a wonderful stake on the topic of asymmetrical necks. I have a question for you though! So my thoughts are this. I generally agree with your sentiments, but I wanted to get your perspective on the comfortability of fretting the low E using your thumb with your preferred style of asymmetry. This is a style I very much like and I know it creates a slight difference in the angle of the wrist in order to fret that string. Could you let me know if you find this comfortable on your guitar and if you think it works well with that asymmetry? I would much appreciate any insight on the topic! Thank you so much for this informational video!

[@Drew-gm4sy]

I actually just noticed that this had been addressed by others in the comment section. I suppose though that I was more curious about how it felt for you on your guitar to fret the low E string the way you play it?

[@LukeWalstead]

Hey Andrew! So, I wanted to double-check before I responded so that's why I didn't get back to you right away. I just pulled my Jazzmaster out and played a bunch of cords with my thumb over the top of the neck (in a seated position) and I had absolutely no trouble with it. Let me state for the record, I think it's the most comfortable neck I've ever played from pretty much any playing position that I like to use - seated or standing, thumb up thumb down, chords scales and arpeggios - it's the 🐝 knees.

[@Drew-gm4sy]

@@LukeWalstead Thanks for the response Luke! I appreciate you going out of your way and taking the time just to help me out with this! That’s fantastic! Well that honestly settles it in my mind. I’ve been designing the warmoth I plan on ordering and it looks like I’m going to be ordering a lefty asymmetrical neck! I also really like that it makes the guitar look unique and different as well! Thanks again for the response this was exactly what I needed to finally be comfortable enough to make the order. Thank you Luke. You’re awesome and I appreciate you!

[@LukeWalstead]

I'm excited for you, you won't regret it! Thank you and I appreciate the feedback!

[@hugokatz]

I've been playing an asymmetric neck on my strat for 25 years. My grandkids broke my Strat and I'm not able to find another I like. I'm not a fan of burst finishes, or I'd get an SRV. In any position I am faster, and more accurate with an asymmetric neck. Maybe it's lousy "technique", but most consider me, a decent player. I get better leverage with it. I wish I could get along, with a regular neck. It would open up a word of used guitars for me, After spending a small fortune on high, end Strats, I am going to have to have Mario Martin make me another, like my old one. Unfortunately he has 12 to 18 month wait. I consider asymmetric necks as a must have. A well worn asymmetric neck is great.i really don't care how it looks. Buy a quarter sawn, asymmetric neck, play it raw, or lightly oiled... it's the best. It's just the blues.

[@LukeWalstead]

Check out Warmoth Guitars, you can get exactly the neck you're looking for without spending too much! I have no professional relationship with them, I get no kickbacks, money, discounts - nothing. But I'm a customer of theirs and I love their products. Do yourself a favor and check them out!

[@beatmasterbossy]

It depends, for the most part, even if you're playing with the guitar high up, that's the way your hand is shaped, oval, asymmetrical or v all "fit" It depends whether you're a thumb-over player or not, and it depends where on the neck you're playing: lower register v upper register. Like a strandberg, with a variable asymmetrical neck It all depends on what's comfortable Also, its mostly rock n roll and improv anyway, this isn't classical music, there are no set-in-stone rules. Like language, it's fluid, it changes with time and variation.

[@LukeWalstead]

I'm curious, what do you mean by "this isn't classical music"?

[@georgedeshurley2429]

Really enjoyed your video! Just order a Warmoth SRV asymmetrical neck.

[@LukeWalstead]

Righty or lefty, whichever what you prefer!

[@myronalcock4716]

Nice, thanks. Tobin's Thumbs should also be considered, it's like two extra fingers! I've got a traditional style asymmetrical neck - I find the asymmetry is constant reminder about my thumb placement. You got me thinking I'd like to try the opposite of what I have. I have tried a Strandberg neck, that feels natural and comfy, sadly beyond my $.

[@LukeWalstead]

Tosin's thumbs 😂🤣😂😂🤣 Thanks for the comment!

[@chrisv2557]

Guitar manufacturers should watch this video

[@LukeWalstead]

I take that as a big compliment, thank you!

[@Jinnuksuk]

Asymmetrical neck came to mind while I was building a guitar neck (this build is meant to be for hard rock and Metal) and logically thinking, I figured it'd be better if it was thicker on the treble side (I'm right handed and have my guitar kind of low) because I'd mostly be holding the neck with my thumb playing solos and less palming for chords and even when I'm chord gripping, I'm holding the neck angled with my arm pointing more towards the head rather than perpendicularly.

[@LukeWalstead]

Interesting. Did you end up making it asymmetrical?

[@Jinnuksuk]

That was just a thought, really. After watching your video, it made me less certain about my idea. Besides, this build is to be my one ultimate guitar until I can afford the full cost of a quality guitar rather than saving up and ordering individual build parts at a time. I'd rather not make unfamiliar features as I do perfectly fine with a standard thin C neck. "If it ain't broke..."

[@LukeWalstead]

I definitely understand and appreciate that mentality.

[@bluematrix5001]

you are right but don't you think if a guitar neck are thin in both beck shoulders would be great?

[@LukeWalstead]

You mean like a V shape? A lot of people like those!

[@bluematrix5001]

@@LukeWalstead yeah, I thick to wide neck shoulders are a hidden important issue, then the neck not being too thick

[@serfillustrated4018]

I was thinking the same thing.. I ordered a Sterling Stingray and got it in yesterday. I do not like the neck profile at all. I'm gonna take a shot at thinning the low end side. Its just too fat for me. I use my thumb on the back of the neck and not my palm.

[@LukeWalstead]

Oh man, that's rough 😬 I hate spending money on things that I end up not liking. Let me know how adjusting the profile works and how you did it!

[@griddlelife5007]

What if there was a asymmetrical piano keyboard😮

[@LukeWalstead]

#Mindblown 😵

[@HeadHondo]

Have you seen the length of Jimmy Page's arms?! He would give Kevin Durant a run for his money. Reasons for playing guitar hung low are not limited to aesthetics. The Ramones would sound totally different if Johnny and Dee Dee played as high as Tom Morello and vise versa.

[@LukeWalstead]

An interesting take for sure! I would counter that visual perception informs emotional content and emotional content informs our perception of sound. The difference between somebody's kid crying vs your kid crying is an example of emotional connection changing the perception of a given sound. The Ramones sound the way they do in part because of the cultural perception they portray. And association plus stereotyping with regard to musical styles give us a strong expectation of an artist's dress, mannerisms and stage presence. So to bring this whole thought home: the Ramones were part of a cultural movement that can be summed up as a middle finger to the establishment - including norms with regard to music, dress and stage presence. In an alternate reality, let's say their records sounded exactly the same but they dressed, moved and held their guitars like Buddy Holly, the Ramones would sound different to us. But this is because the world would have perceived and now remember them not as part of the punk moment but as weird outsiders and posers. The exact same music without the image is incapable of producing the same effect on the listener - especially in their time! And if their stage image didn't fit with the cultural change that was happening in the world of punk, the punk movement would have rejected them as outsiders. Think of how Stone Temple Pilots wasn't and still isn't seen as "real grunge" because it's members were California cool and didn't embrace the cultural movement of Pacific Northwest Grunge. Are they not grunge musically?? You bet your butt they are! But they are NOT remembered with the grunge greats for aesthetic reasons - even though they get equal air time on PNW radio to this day. Perception is EVERYTHING but how high or low you sling your gtr doesn't actually make it sound different in a vacuume. But then again, there isn't any sound in a vacuume either. Oh and final thought: the Ramones could have played sitting down in the studio for all we know anyway. But I enjoyed thinking about what you said so, thanks for commenting - cheers!

[@bluematrix5001]

do if you are sitting maybe thinner in the bass is better?

[@LukeWalstead]

Yep!

[@manuelvm31]

Hi! Sorry for my bad english. First of all, good video! Keep it up! I have one question... I've looked everywhere about it but can't find anything. I've seen some luthier-made guitars (and basses) with the asymmetrical neck and the truss rod is not right in the middle. Is closer to one side of the neck and someone (somewhere) explained that it's because the truss rod on the side (don't remember if it was on the thin or the thick side) needs to compensate for the uneven pressure of the asymmetrical neck?? Is that correct?

[@LukeWalstead]

Hey your English is actually pretty good! So, I don't know for certain but, I believe that the truss rod CAN be offset on a asymmetrical neck. But it doesn't have to be. It depends on how asymmetrical the neck shape is and the overall size of the neck. For my Jazzmaster neck, it looks like the truss rod is centered on the neck - not offset. I can tell by looking at the placement of the adjustment screw at the base of the headstock. But it's only mildly asymmetrical and of medium thickness For more extreme shapes that are also fairly thin, you would need to place the truss rod more to the thick side of the neck to ensure you have enough wood to house it. But that's only if you are using a adjustable steel truss rod. Lots of custom builders are using carbon fiber or graphite rods laminated into the neck structure to create stability. This can also be done on highly laminated, all wood necks if you use the right kinds of hardwood. Either way, this eliminates the need for a traditional steel truss rod due to the strength and rigidity of the neck. This is actually a much more traditional approach to instrument building but it also takes much more skill and care to get right. I hope that answers your questions but, let me know if you have other thoughts. Cheers!

[@kokeskokeskokes]

Thank you very much for pointing that out to me.

[@donjoseph73]

Dude to sum it up, it’s all just subjective man.

[@LukeWalstead]

That's definitely the opposite of what I'm saying. Asymmetrical necks have always been marketed as a mere preference, a subjective approach. My point is that you can objectively discover whether or not it's a good idea for you by examining your playing style and strap height.

[@warmoth]

Represent! ;)

[@LukeWalstead]

Heck yes!

[@semiografo]

I wonder if whether a V or Soft-V neck would be the best compromise for thumb over technique while allowing bending on the treble side. What do you think?

[@LukeWalstead]

I think a V could be a little too much to be an asset for both techniques at the same time. A Soft-V might be a nice compromise but again, the specific profile is somewhat separate from the overall symmetry.

[@woozyjoe4703]

I kind of get your point but when I look at my hand when I imagine holding a guitar neck the Gibson way makes more sense to me. It just seems that no matter what height I'm holding it at, my hand is shaped to accommodate a deeper chunk of neck nearer the thumb side. Also the wood nearer the treble end just gets more in the way when playing faster runs in the tops strings

[@LukeWalstead]

That's because you don't play with a technique that utilizes a low thumb position. It's all relative to each player's approach to the neck. If the Gibson carve is what makes sense to you, then it would probably be silly to spend money on something that doesn't make sense for you. Thanks for the input to the conversation!

[@woozyjoe4703]

True, but I'm guessing that if someone played with a "classical" thumb position, neither way of making the neck "asymmetrical" would work well. At best it would make no difference and at worst it would be a hindrance as the slightest movement of the thumb would lead to a slip in hand position or at least a need to shift or effort to maintain it. I'm not advocating Gibson's approach particularly and none of my guitars have such a neck profile. I did investigate it as a possibility at one point as I suffer from tendonitis and arthritis but wasn't convinced. If anything at the time, it put me off buying a Les Paul with that type of neck profile. Clearly your idea has provoked thought though, so quite an interesting video.

[@LukeWalstead]

Ok, I get where you're coming from. And I'm glad it is thought provoking! That was my hope. Cheers!

[@BoneheadGuitars]

Interesting. What are your thoughts on the Strandburg approach where it’s heavy on the bass side at the nut end and heavier on the treble side at the bridge end?

[@LukeWalstead]

I've never played one but I'm familiar with the concept. I think it's intended for a very specific type of highly technical player with a specific strap hight and overall orientation. As far as the difference in thickness bass to treble changing from low to high registers, I think it's meant to control where your thumb is across the neck. I believe a lot of them are actually flattened meaning they have a sort of platform for your thumb that moves from the bass to the treble side as you climb the neck. This is intended to keep your thumb in the optimal playing position but, this is based on the idea that your thumb position needs to change depending on the register.

[@BoneheadGuitars]

@@LukeWalstead that was my understanding. Since they leave the facets flat. I thought I’d heard the man himself say something about that back facet being for thumb placement. But after seeing your analysis, which was interesting, I just wondered what you thought of the idea. Thanks for the response!

[@LukeWalstead]

I think it's pretty cool! If I wanted a guitar to shred and play prog metal I would probably go for something with a neck profile like that. Even without ever playing one I'm pretty sure they work well just because that segment of the guitar community seems very results based. So yeah, I think they're pretty sweet

[@BoneheadGuitars]

@@LukeWalstead I’m having to build one to try out 😆 We shall see.

[@carlosclaptrix]

Wow, that’s great! I am not in need to look cool when playing and I just felt more comfortable having it at my chest. I also like a lot how Larry Carlton plays guitar, and he has it in a high position. Wouldn't it look ultra cool to play it in such a low position that it would rest on the floor? You wouldn't even need a strap! 😊

[@LukeWalstead]

🤣

[@conrad98gtp]

Eddie Van Halen, since maybe their 5150 album, he actually plays with his guitar much higher than he did in his earlier days. I believe he was using Asymmetrical necks since then until his latest instrument incarnations. I used to own one of the Ernie Ball EVH guitars that I stupidly traded. I really liked the neck profile. I'd love to try it opposite, as you have it to feel for myself. I wear my guitar, I'd say more medium height. That's what so hard about buying necks online, is you can't feel it for yourself before purchasing.

[@LukeWalstead]

I agree, it's hard to feel confident making a sight unseen purchase with only marketing jargon to guide you.

[@luisbarrera5740]

What if we play medium high? like same height or close to as you would sitting down?

[@LukeWalstead]

It really depends on your anatomy. My best advice is to seek out and play guitars with the 3 general profiles (thinner on the treble, symmetrical and thinner on the bass) and see which works best. That's my "best advice". In the absence of actually playing the different profiles, I would strongly recommend that a thinner bass side will work best at high, medium and even semi-low heights. Unless it's low enough that the web between forefinger and thumb is centered on the uppermost bass side cheek of the neck profile and encroaching onto the binding, you'd be better off with a thinner bass side shape. Only at that ultra low position does your hand shift far enough around the neck that your thumb is no longer being bent up and back by the neck (relative to your arm angle) as you wrap your hand around it. And for further proof of this, Takamine utilizes this profile on acoustic guitars, which are primarily played in the seated position. There's a LOT of inaccurate marketing out there but once you understand the shape of the human hand and how it interacts with the neck, it's clear that a thinner bass side will be more comfortable for 80%+ of the world's guitarists. Hope this helps!

[@luisbarrera5740]

@@LukeWalstead thank you very much for a detailed response. I'm getting a custom 7 string and this helps a lot.

[@frankredwood6103]

I like what you’ve had to say. What would you say about a D shape, classical style neck, being a best of borth worlds thing, maybe on a normal electric radius?

[@LukeWalstead]

As far as symmetrical shapes go, I think a sort of lightly flattened "classical" D shape is one of the best all around profiles out there. As long as it's correctly proportioned. Some of the old school fender necks were that profile but proportionally way deeper, resulting in very wide "shoulders" where the neck tapers to the edge of the fingerboard. That can be pretty uncomfortable for a lot of players who don't have large hands. By the way, I'm assuming you didn't mean a neck that has the dimensions of a classical neck but just the shape and profile with a radiused fingerboard. If you actually meant the same size as a classical but with a radius then no, to I think that wouldn't be very appealing for a large variety of styles and players.

[@rayjdragonballz]

Hi, I hope you see this. Did you use the SRV or wolfgang neck for yours? Do you think one would be better than the other in terms of ergonomics and comfort? You've convinced me to try this out with my next build. Thank you!

[@LukeWalstead]

So, I think I want with the Wolfgang but... I can't remember exactly. I just went to my Warmoth account and looked through my order details and it just said "custom neck" without any other details. 😥 That said, I think a Wolfgang is the best option for myself and that's what I'd go with if I could another guitar.

[@rayjdragonballz]

@@LukeWalstead thanks so much!!

[@LukeWalstead]

Of course! If you want to talk farther, I'd be more than happy to give you my thoughts. You can contact me directly through my website (link in the video description)

[@Tyler_Hodges]

Wow, very insightful! If you were wanting to get a neck made like you did, you could also order the left handed neck headstock to be reversed - which would make it a completely normal right handed guitar neck with the custom asymmetric profile!

[@LukeWalstead]

Actually, at the time I bought my neck from Warmoth, they didn't have a left handed reverse headstock as an option. They may have added it since then but, I can't say for sure.

[@Tyler_Hodges]

@@LukeWalstead oh man you’re right! They only offer right hand, left hand, and right hand reversed...

[@LukeWalstead]

You know, I was put out by them not carrying that one option but, having a reverse headstock gives a longer length for the bass strings which is (supposedly, I haven't deep dived on this) conducive to a more even string tension from bass to treble.

[@Tyler_Hodges]

@@LukeWalstead I NEVER would have thought of that...thats such a good point. I love how out of the box and analytical you think about things. With that being said, I wonder if thats why I feel a difference on guitars with floyd nuts and a standard nut. I feel like the string tension behind the nut becomes irrelevant after they're locked down, creating a new starting point.

[@LukeWalstead]

@@Tyler_Hodges oh absolutely! Once the nut is locked down tight, the string length above it is irrelevant to the playing tension.

[@hlyangel1]

Eddie Van Halen and SRV play their guitars way up high not down low

[@LukeWalstead]

Compared to who... exactly? Tosin Abasi? No. Frank Gambale? No. Wes Montgomery? No. Andre Segovia? No. You see, SRV and EVH slung their guitars low relative to their waist and relative to traditional guitar positioning. But yes, compared to a Billy Joe Armstrong, they don't have their guitars low at all. It's all about perspective, my friend, ALL about perspective. Cheers

[@scottbronder]

just buy a strandberg and go back to playing. i own 2 now and 10 other "non" endur-necks that are just fire kindling now.

[@LukeWalstead]

That's definitely an interesting take!

[@aniquinstark4347]

I swear Tosin is a time traveler sent back to teach us about stuff

[@LukeWalstead]

Lol maybe

[@Em_Dee_Aitch]

Excellent concept. Or, just hold it in between the 2 extremes, in the most “neutral” position. Then just get a V neck. You don’t need the asymmetry at all.

[@LukeWalstead]

I like the way you're thinking!

[@christopherkennedy873]

Thak make big rock noise on guitar. 🤘🎸💥

[@LukeWalstead]

🤘

[@stankers4952]

Takamine!!!!!

[@LukeWalstead]

I just googled it and you're so right! I had no idea, thank you for telling me!

[@supremoluminary]

I think you’re missing the point of playing the guitar low. Playing the guitar low is more comfortable for the picking hand for rhythm guitar. This is because different muscles are used and the resting position is more comfortable. When the guitar is worn higher, the picking/strumming hand must be raised to meet the position of the strings near the bridge. Paragraph problem with bringing the arm up is that it creates more tension in the shoulder and arm and, to some degree, the neck. This change position affects the tactile feel and performance and execution of right hand techniques. A higher arm positional also affects The hand position and that affects the pick angle. Music that uses a lot of fast down strokes, such as iron maiden and Metallica, will is very difficult to play when the guitar is worn high. Try it. The things that are played with the left hand also affect the left-hand angle. If the guitar is played with the thumb over the top, it will need to be worn lower. But for bar chords or three note per string scales, it a must come behind the neck. All of these different playing situations will lend themselves to different desired neck profiles.

[@LukeWalstead]

All because I said wearing guitars down low finds its roots in a desire to look cool. 😂 What came first, the look or Metallica? Just chill bro

[@supremoluminary]

@@LukeWalstead "Chill"? As in, don't think and respond? Just like, subscribe, comment , and share? What I said is insightful, makes sense, and is correct. And I can elaborate more on that and on asymmetric neck profiles. But I've more interest in finishing my custom build - it's coming along great!

[@LukeWalstead]

😂 You do you man. Good luck with your build.

[@chrispage2782]

“I’m not really famous. At all.” LOL…so…you’re a “little” famous? Not really famous? Sort of??? Kinda famous???

[@LukeWalstead]

You really don't understand common 21st century American parlance 🤣

[@smutsharry]

Awesome! I was pondering exactly this question so this video was an awesome find. Holding my guitar in a middle of a road position I'm probably well off with a run of the mill symmetrical neck. In other words unassymetrical :D .

[@LukeWalstead]

Well, if you're happy with a run of the mill neck then I would say you're right and stick with it! But remember that the symmetery of the neck is only one aspect in determining it's feel. There is also the depth, width, fret size, radius, finish, scale length... and depending on the player they are all potentially even more important than symmetery. But, a quick note on choosing symmetery based objectively on how you play: I think that any kind of black and white thinking misses the reality of how people like things. What we like is based upon upon our experience and personality and not an objective rule of "better or worse". So, one person may like an asymmetrical neck when it objectively doesn't fit their playing position but yet, they still like it and feel comfortable. I hope that "reverse asymmetrical" necks become available on factory guitars as, the only realistic way for guitarists to know what they prefer is to actually play it. Sorry for the short novel, but I like talking with people about this stuff! Cheers