Frettage is a term used in guitar-making that describes the process of installing frets. The pronunciation is [ɸɹɛtɪdʒ], with the "fr" sound being pronounced as a voiceless labiodental fricative, the "e" pronounced as a short "eh" sound, and the "tage" pronounced with a soft "j" sound, similar to the "s" in "measure". It is important to spell and pronounce words accurately in technical fields such as guitar-making to ensure clear communication and accurate understanding of processes.
Frettage is a term used in the field of music to describe a specific technique applied to stringed instruments, particularly guitars. It refers to the process of manually filing down the individual metal frets on the fingerboard to ensure that they are level and properly aligned. This process is essential for maintaining the playability and intonation of the instrument.
Frettage involves using various tools, such as a leveling beam, a crowning file, and abrasive materials, to reshape the frets. The initial step is to identify any discrepancies in the height of the frets. The higher frets are then brought down until all of them are equal in height. This allows for better sound production and ease of playing, as the player's fingers can press down on the strings without encountering any obstacles.
Additionally, frettage also involves reshaping the crown or the top surface of each fret. This is done to ensure that the contact between the strings and the frets is accurate, preventing any buzz or dead spots that might affect the sound quality of the instrument.
Overall, frettage is a meticulous process that requires expertise and precision. It is often conducted by professional luthiers or instrument repair technicians. Frettage is crucial for maintaining the optimal playability and tonal quality of stringed instruments, particularly guitars, ensuring a satisfying experience for both the player and the listeners.
The word "frettage" primarily has two different etymologies, depending on the context in which it is used:
1. In the context of musical instruments (specifically guitars), "frettage" refers to the placement of metal frets on the fingerboard. In this case, the etymology of "frettage" is derived from the word "fret", which originally comes from Middle English "fretten" meaning "to devour" or "to eat away". It later evolved to refer to an ornamental interlaced pattern, commonly seen in decorative art or architectural designs. The term was then applied to the metal strips placed on the fingerboard of stringed instruments.
2. In the context of woodworking or carpentry, "frettage" refers to a joining technique where two pieces of timber are tightly interlocked by notching or grooving them together.