When comparing guitars, the way that the instrument is built is one of the best ways to determine how it will feel and sound.
Players tend to look at the neck joints to see how the neck is attached to the body. Most guitarists are familiar with the set neck and bolt-on neck, but the set-thru is still relatively new.
So, what is the set-thru or set-through guitar neck?
A set-thru guitar neck is a method of attaching the neck of a guitar to the body where the neck extends into the body of the guitar, rather than being separate and attached to the body. It offers increased sustain and stability compared to other neck joint types.
This design allows for a smoother transition between the neck and the body, increased sustain, and better access to the upper frets.
It is often found on high-end guitars like ESP.
The guitar neck joint is the point at which the neck and body of the guitar meet. This joint is crucial for the guitar’s sound and playability.
Different types of neck joints can affect the tone and playability of the guitar, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.
The neck joint affects the guitar’s tone and sustain most, and just like with any other guitar part, players are constantly debating whether the type of neck joint really makes a huge difference or not.
This article explains the set-thru neck and how it differs from bolt-on and set-necks and explores the pros and cons of this construction.
What is set-thru neck?
A set-thru guitar neck is a type of guitar neck construction that combines elements of both set-in and bolt-on neck designs.
In a traditional set-in neck, the neck is glued into the body of the guitar, creating a seamless transition between the two.
In a bolt-on neck, the neck is attached to the body with screws, creating a more distinct separation between the two.
A set-thru neck, as the name suggests, combines these two approaches by setting the neck into the body of the guitar, but also attaching it to the body with screws.
This allows for the stability and sustain of a set-in neck, while also providing easy access to the upper frets, similar to a bolt-on neck.
The set-thru design can be seen as a middle ground between the traditional set-in and bolt-on neck designs, offering the best of both worlds.
One of the most popular guitar brands that use the set-thru guitar neck is ESP guitars. ESP was the first company to introduce the set-thru construction.
They have applied it to many of their guitar models and have been one of the most successful brands in the guitar market.
Set-thru neck construction
When it comes to specifics about guitar construction, here’s what you need to know:
Set-through neck (or Set-thru neck) is a method of joining the neck and the body of guitar (or similar stringed instrument), effectively combining bolt-on, set-in, and neck-through methods.
It involves a pocket in the instrument’s body for the insertion of the neck, as in the bolt-on method.
However, the pocket is much deeper than the usual one. There’s a long neck plank, comparable to the scale length, as in the neck-through method.
The next step involves glueing (setting) the long neck inside the deep pocket, as in the set-neck method.
Set-thru neck is a type of neck joint used in electric guitars. It’s a single piece of wood that runs from the body of the guitar all the way to the headstock.
It’s a popular design because it creates a stronger connection between the neck and the body, which can improve the sound of the guitar.
It also makes the guitar easier to play, as the neck is more stable and the strings are closer to the body.
This type of neck joint is often used on higher-end guitars, as it’s more expensive to produce. It’s also used on some bass guitars.
The set-thru neck is a great choice for players who want a strong, stable connection between the neck and the body, as well as improved sound and playability.
Also read my full guide matching tone and wood for electric guitars
What is the advantage of the set-thru neck?
Luthiers frequently cite improved tone and sustain (due to deep insertion and body made of a single piece of wood, not laminated as in neck-through), brighter tone (due to set joint), comfortable access to top frets (due to lack of hard heel and bolt plate), and better wood stability.
Some players will tell you that there are no real benefits of a certain type of neck joint, but luthiers tend to disagree – there are definitely some differences to note.
One of the key benefits of a set-thru guitar neck is that it allows for easier access to the upper frets.
This is because the neck is set into the body of the guitar rather than being glued in place.
This means that there is less wood blocking the way, making it easier to reach those high notes.
Another benefit of the set-thru guitar neck is that it offers a more stable and sustainful sound.
This is because the neck is secured to the body with screws, providing a more solid connection between the two.
This can result in a more resonant and full-bodied sound, which can be especially beneficial for guitarists who play heavy music.
The set-thru guitar neck is also known for its improved comfortability during playing because the neck is set further into the body, and the transition between the neck and body is smoother.
Finally, the set-thru guitar neck is also a popular choice among guitar builders, as it allows for more creative freedom in terms of design.
The set-thru design can be combined with a variety of different body styles, such as solid-body, semi-hollow, and hollow-body guitars, making it a versatile option for many different types of guitar players.
In conclusion, set-thru guitar necks provide a number of advantages over other types of guitar necks.
They provide better access to the higher frets, increased sustain, a more consistent playing experience, and a more comfortable playing experience.
What is the disadvantage of the set-thru neck?
Set-thru guitar necks have several advantages, but they also have some disadvantages.
One potential disadvantage of set-thru guitar necks is that they can be more difficult to repair or replace if they become damaged.
Because the neck is integrated into the body, it can be harder to access and work on than a bolt-on or set-neck guitar neck.
Another cited disadvantage is the inability or relative complexity of adding a double-locking tremolo to the guitar, as the routing for cavities would interfere with a deeply set neck.
Another disadvantage of set-thru guitar necks is that they can be more expensive to produce than bolt-on or set-neck guitar necks.
This is because they require more precision and skill to make, and this cost can be reflected in the price of the guitar.
Additionally, set-thru guitar necks can be heavier than bolt-on or set-neck guitar necks, which can be an issue for some players who prefer a lighter guitar.
Finally, some players may prefer the traditional look of a set-neck or bolt-on guitar neck and may not be as aesthetically attracted to the sleek and ergonomic look of a set-thru guitar neck.
But the main disadvantage is a relatively complex construction that leads to higher manufacturing and servicing costs.
It’s important to note that these disadvantages may not be significant for some players, and the overall performance and feel of the guitar is what really matters.
Why is set-thru neck important?
Set-thru guitar necks are important because they provide a number of advantages over other types of guitar necks.
Firstly, they provide better access to the higher frets. This is because the neck is set into the body of the guitar, meaning the neck is longer and the frets are closer together.
This makes it easier to reach the higher frets, which is especially beneficial for guitarists who play lead guitar.
Secondly, set-thru guitar necks provide increased sustain.
This is because the neck is firmly attached to the body of the guitar, which helps to transfer the vibrations from the strings to the body more efficiently.
This results in a longer and more resonant sound.
Thirdly, set-thru guitar necks provide a more consistent playing experience.
This is because the neck is firmly attached to the body of the guitar, which helps to ensure that the strings are at the same height across the entire length of the neck.
This makes it easier to play chords and solos without having to adjust your hand position.
Finally, set-thru guitar necks provide a more comfortable playing experience.
This is because the neck is set into the body of the guitar, which helps to reduce the weight of the guitar.
This makes it easier to play for extended periods of time without feeling fatigued.
Ever wondered how many guitar chords there are actually in a guitar?
What is the history of what is set-thru neck?
The history of set-thru guitar necks is not well documented, but it is believed that the first set-thru guitars were made in the late 1970s and early 1980s by luthiers and small guitar manufacturers.
In the 1990s, larger manufacturers such as Ibanez and ESP began to adopt the set-thru neck design for some of their models.
It was created as an alternative to the traditional bolt-on neck, which had been the standard for decades.
The set-thru neck allowed for a more seamless connection between the neck and the body of the guitar, resulting in improved sustain and resonance.
Over the years, the set-thru neck has become increasingly popular, with many guitar manufacturers offering it as an option.
It has become a staple of the modern guitar, with many players preferring it over the traditional bolt-on neck.
The set-thru neck has also been used in a variety of styles, from jazz to metal.
In recent years, the set-thru neck has seen some modifications, such as the addition of a heel joint, which allows for easier access to the higher frets.
This has made the set-thru neck even more popular, allowing for greater playability and comfort.
The set-thru neck has also seen some refinements in terms of construction.
Many luthiers now use a combination of mahogany and maple for the neck, which provides a more balanced tone and improved sustain.
Overall, the set-thru neck has come a long way since its inception in the late 1970s. It has become a staple of the modern guitar and is used in a variety of styles.
It has also seen some refinements in terms of construction, resulting in improved playability and tone.
Which electric guitars have a set-thru neck?
The most popular guitars with a set-thru neck are ESP guitars.
ESP guitars are a type of electric guitar made by the Japanese company ESP. These guitars are known for their high-quality construction and unique designs.
They are popular among rock and metal guitarists for their aggressive tone and fast playability.
The best example is the ESP LTD EC-1000 (reviewed here) which features a set-thru neck and EMG pickups, so it’s an excellent guitar for metal!
Some examples of guitars with a set-thru neck include:
- Ibanez RG Series
- ESP Eclipse
- ESP LTD EC-1000
- Jackson Soloist
- Schecter C-1 Classic
These are some of the well-known guitar manufacturers that have used the set-thru neck construction in some of their models.
However, it is worth noting that not all models from these manufacturers feature a set-thru neck, and there are also other guitar manufacturers that offer set-thru neck options.
FAQs
What’s better bolt-on or set-thru neck?
When it comes to neck-thru vs bolt-on, there is no definitive answer as to which is better.
Neck-thru guitars provide more stability and durability, but they are also more expensive and difficult to repair.
Bolt-on guitars are generally cheaper and easier to repair, but they are also less stable and durable.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of guitar best suits your needs.
Does set-thru neck require a truss rod?
Yes, a through neck guitar does need a truss rod. The truss rod helps to keep the neck straight and prevents it from warping over time.
Essentially, the truss rod is needed because it must compensate for that additional string tension in the neck.
Without a truss rod, the neck could become warped, and the guitar would become unplayable.
Is set-thru guitar actually better?
Whether or not neck-through guitars are better is a matter of opinion. They offer more sustain and the higher frets are easier to reach as you play.
Neck-through guitars provide more stability and durability, but they are also more expensive and difficult to repair.
On the other hand, bolt-on guitars are generally cheaper and easier to repair, but they are also less stable and durable.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of guitar best suits your needs.
Is there set-thru neck bass guitar?
Yes, models like the Torzal Neck-through Bass are built with a set-thru neck.
However, not a lot of bass guitars have a set-through neck yet, although more brands are probably going to manufacture them.
Can you replace a set-thru neck?
The short answer is yes, but it’s not recommended.
Set-thru necks are designed to fit a specific body shape and typically require special tools or specialized skills in order to replace them.
If you need to replace your set-thru neck, it’s best to have an experienced luthier do the work, as it’s very easy to permanently damage the guitar if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Generally, the set-thru neck is harder to replace than a bolt-on or set-in neck, so it’s important to get it right the first time.
The reason is that the neck joint is much more secure, meaning that you need to be very careful when removing the old neck and installing a new one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, set-through guitar necks are a great choice for guitarists looking for increased sustain and improved access to the higher frets.
A set-thru guitar neck is a type of guitar neck construction that combines elements of both set-in and bolt-on neck designs.
It offers the best of both worlds with improved access to upper frets and stability, sustain, and comfort.
They’re also great for those who want a more balanced tone.
If you’re thinking about a set-through neck for your guitar, make sure you do your research and find the right one for you.
ESP guitars are one of the most successful brands that use the set-thru guitar neck construction.
Read next: Schecter Hellraiser C-1 vs ESP LTD EC-1000 | Which comes out on top?
I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.
