Elegantly curved frets for true, note-by-note intonation.
Looks complex. Plays naturally. Most players don’t notice the difference under the fingers — they hear it.
Capo-friendly
Alt tunings OK
No saddle compensation
Any scale length
Why ArcFret™
Perfected intonation
Each fret is a smooth, continuous arc computed for the string and position — not broken into straight segments — so every note lands exactly where it should.
Natural feel
Despite the look, the left hand behaves just like on a traditional fingerboard. Players who don’t notice the frets visually usually don’t feel any difference — they only hear cleaner chords and intervals.
Capo & tunings
Works with standard capos and lowered tunings. The geometry preserves accuracy across practical setups.
Straight, lighter bridge
No individual saddle compensation needed. All strings terminate at one line, enabling a lighter, straighter saddle/bridge for improved response.
How it works
Equal-temperament frets are straight, so their pitch is averaged across all strings. ArcFret™ follows the real speaking length of each string and its stiffness, shaping every fret as a precise arc. The result is note-by-note accuracy, stabilized chords, and sweeter intervals across the board.
Compatibility
- Scale lengths: any (e.g., 630 / 640 / 650 mm — custom on request, multi-string supported).
- Guitar types: classical, flamenco, crossover; custom steel-string options on request.
- Capodaster & alternative tunings: fully supported.
- Left-handed: available.
Build options
- Fretwire: EVO-GOLD, 18% nickel-silver; profiles matched to your specification.
- Fingerboard: flat or mild radius; ebony recommended.
- Bridge & saddle: straight saddle line; lighter bridge design.
Chosen by concert players
ArcFret™ has already been installed on several of our concert instruments — including a guitar made for Al Di Meola.
FAQ
Is it harder to play?
No. The hand follows the same positions. Most players report it feels normal within minutes — the difference is mainly in what you hear (and see).
Can I use a capo?
Yes. Standard capos work normally; intonation remains stable across positions.
Does it work with lowered tunings?
Yes. ArcFret™ geometry is robust to common alternate tunings. We will set up your instrument for your preferred strings and pitch.
Do I still need saddle compensation?
No. All strings share one termination line, allowing a straight, lightweight saddle and refined bridge design.
ArcFret™ is a trademark of Turkowiak Guitars.
