Originally Posted by: ckelly6234

I'm in the market for a new guitar. I'm wondering if get something with a different scale length and/or number of frets as my current guitar will it be counter productive (i.e., slow down the learning process)?

[p]Great question! It depends on how much skill you have & what you want to accomplish with your new guitar. I play mostly 25.5 scale Fenders. So when I pick up a 24.75 Gibson scale, or classical guitar or a bass it does feel weird. I have to look at the frets more & playing some things takes more getting used to than others. I can usually adjust pretty seamlessly after an hour or so. Playing more complex things takes long to adjust. :)

Besides scale length there are other factors to consider.

1. String/neck width & depth. Neck & body contour can add or subtract a lot of comfort & ease of play.

2. String tension. This is really important in bending. Gibsons & Fenders really feel different when you are trying to do lots of vibrato.

3. Electronics. The standard SSS or HSS of a Fender is quite different than a 2HB of a Gibson style, or 1 HB of a Charvel fat Strat for example. A lot of this depends on what genre or style of music you want to play.

If I have to play a classical gig, there's just no way around having to use that instrument. O a jazz gig, then I have to use the jazz box. Or a blues gig, then I have to use the Strat. Right tool for the job is essential. :)

In general, if you have the budget & the time to make the adjustment, then I say go for it! It will give you more experience with other instruments & a wider playing skill set. Often a new guitar will open up new areas of interest & passion as well!