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Fret Calculator

Calculate the exact position of frets on a guitar or bass neck. Based on the equal temperament system used in modern fretted instruments.

Common: 25.5" (Fender), 24.75" (Gibson), 34" (Bass)

Fret Position

12.750 inches

Distance from nut to fret 12

Distance from bridge: 12.750 inches

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your guitar\'s scale length in inches (distance from nut to bridge).
  2. Enter the fret number you want to calculate (1-24, typically).
  3. The calculator displays the exact distance from the nut to that fret.
  4. Use this for building guitars, replacing frets, or understanding instrument geometry.

Fret Position Formula

Fret positions are calculated using the equal temperament formula:

Fret Position = Scale Length × (1 - 2^(-Fret Number / 12))

Example: For a 25.5" scale length at the 12th fret: Position = 25.5 × (1 - 2^(-12/12)) = 25.5 × (1 - 0.5) = 12.75" from the nut (exactly half the scale length, creating an octave).

Full Description

Fret placement on guitars and basses follows the equal temperament system, which divides the octave into 12 equal semitones. Each fret raises the pitch by exactly one semitone, creating the standard chromatic scale. The mathematical formula ensures precise fret placement for accurate intonation across the entire neck.

Scale length is the distance from the nut (where strings start) to the bridge (where strings end). This measurement determines fret spacing—longer scale lengths have wider fret spacing, while shorter scale lengths have tighter spacing. Common scale lengths include 25.5" for Fender guitars, 24.75" for Gibson guitars, and 34" for standard bass guitars.

This calculator helps you determine exact fret positions for any scale length and fret number. Use it when building or repairing guitars, understanding instrument geometry, or learning about equal temperament. The calculator shows both the distance from the nut and from the bridge, giving you complete positioning information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are fret positions calculated?

Fret positions use the equal temperament formula: Position = Scale Length × (1 - 2^(-fret/12)). This ensures each fret raises the pitch by exactly one semitone, creating the standard chromatic scale.

What is scale length?

Scale length is the distance from the nut (where strings start) to the bridge (where strings end). Common scale lengths: 25.5" (Fender Stratocaster), 24.75" (Gibson Les Paul), 34" (standard bass guitar).

Why do different guitars have different scale lengths?

Longer scale lengths create higher string tension and brighter tone. Shorter scale lengths create lower tension and warmer tone. Scale length affects playability, tone, and string gauge choices.

Can I use this for bass guitars?

Yes! Bass guitars typically use 34" scale length (some use 30" or 35"). Enter the bass scale length and fret number, and the calculator works the same way. The formula is universal for all fretted instruments.