gstew Posted November 1, 2017 Share Posted November 1, 2017 Hi guys, thinking I'd like to change the fingerboard radius of my Variax Standard from the stock 14" to 10". Fenders at 9.5" are very comfortable for me to play on, and I just bought my first PRS that feels super great with its 10" radius. I haven't found a replacement Yamaha neck that has a 10" radius so now I'm going get the appropriate tools ($350+ stewmac, ouch!) and give it a shot. I have a few questions that perhaps someone can answer for me: * Does Yamaha/Line 6 Variax Standard builders glue in their frets? * Does a radius change affect the Variax electronics in any way? I wouldn't think so but good to ask I think. Since I am going to have to remove the frets anyhow, thought I would put in some jumbo stainless steel since I really like playing on it and it lasts forever. As a footnote, I have done nut slot, refret and setup work a few times so not too fearful doing the radius, but any helpful advice is welcomed. Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruisinon2 Posted November 1, 2017 Share Posted November 1, 2017 * Does a radius change affect the Variax electronics in any way? Only if you plan on crowning the main board...not recommended. ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vmoncebaiz Posted November 20, 2017 Share Posted November 20, 2017 In 10+ years of guitar repair, I've don't think I've ever stumbled across a guitar that didn't have glued in frets. They are probably out there, but it's safe to assume most use glue. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
psarkissian Posted November 20, 2017 Share Posted November 20, 2017 ""Does a radius change affect the Variax electronics in any way?"--- Only if the radius differs from the piezo bridge radius beyond a certain point that piezo contact with the strings is affected. Never tried that, so I don't know where that point would be. And if the guitar is still under warranty, would advise against it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gstew Posted November 26, 2017 Author Share Posted November 26, 2017 "Frets probably glued in".... yeah, I was thinking that too. I'll heat the frets up with a solder iron to loosen the glue. "Adjusting bridge radius"... Cool, I'll keep an eye on that. "Voiding warranty" .... understandable and acceptable. Thanks for the input guys. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
psarkissian Posted November 27, 2017 Share Posted November 27, 2017 Get a fret puller kit from Stew-Mac, less chance of damage. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jbsoundideas Posted July 8, 2022 Share Posted July 8, 2022 I think the factory radius is 12 not 14? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
psarkissian Posted July 8, 2022 Share Posted July 8, 2022 Confirmed it with a radius gauge, 12". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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