Flat vs. radiused fingerboard

[smeester]

I'm new to the board, but I did a search and really didn't see a discussion for this topic. I have been playing a flat-fingerboard mandolin. I'd like to hear some pros-cons from personal experience regarding switching to a radiused fingerboard. Any takers?

[AW Meyer]

It's a matter of personal preference. I prefer radiused boards -- they feel more comfortable to me. If you're used to flat boards the radiused ones will likely feel different to you. It's up to you to determine your preference.

[mingusb1]

I have played both flat (old Gibson ovals) and radiused-board (modern F-hole mandos) mandolins that I have really liked. So for me (I have big hands), I think the set-up is a lot more important than the shape of the fretboard.

Z

[otterly2k]

This comes up from time to time.
It really is a matter of preference. The thought is that a radiused fingerboard is a bit more ergonomic, considering the shape of the hand when playing. However, people have played on flat fingerboards for a very long time, and they work fine.

I prefer radius, quite possibly b/c I've always played with a radius and that's what feels comfortable to me.

[fiddle5]

Ditto on the radius. Feels much more comfortable in my hands compared to flat.

[Jerry Byers]

I prefer a flat fretboard. I started with radius, moved to flat unintentionally, and have been there ever since.

[MandoSquirrel]

I love the radius on my Breedlove, but the Gibson A 2 I used to have was a dream to play, without radius, after it had been properly repaired & set up. It's partly preference, but more importantly Set up that makes for playability.