The history of Micro Frets Guitars is a fascinating journey of innovation, technical excellence, and the pursuit of sonic perfection. Founded by Ralph J. Jones in Frederick, Maryland, in the late 1960s, Micro Frets Guitars quickly gained a reputation for producing instruments that pushed the boundaries of traditional guitar design.

The Birth of Micro Frets:

Ralph J. Jones, an engineer and inventor, established Micro Frets Guitars in 1967 with the aim of creating guitars that addressed some of the common challenges faced by guitarists of the time. The company’s name “Micro Frets” was derived from the innovative microtonal frets that set their instruments apart from conventional guitars.

The Micro Frets Fretboard System:

One of the most distinctive features of Micro Frets Guitars was their patented microtonal fretboard system. This unique design allowed players to adjust the intonation of individual strings independently, providing them with unprecedented control over their instrument’s tuning. The frets themselves were movable, allowing players to explore microtonal scales and experiment with different tuning systems. This innovation was particularly appealing to avant-garde musicians and those exploring non-standard musical concepts.

The Signature Model: The Micro-Frets Caliber:

The flagship model of Micro Frets Guitars was the Micro-Frets Caliber, which debuted in the late 1960s. The Caliber featured a striking, futuristic design with an offset body shape, unique cutaways, and an innovative headstock design. The guitar’s electronics were equally groundbreaking, featuring an array of tone-shaping options and an active onboard preamp that allowed for greater control over the instrument’s sound.

Endorsements and Popularity:

Despite their innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship, Micro Frets Guitars faced stiff competition from larger, more established guitar manufacturers. However, the brand garnered a dedicated following among professional musicians, including legendary guitarist Frank Zappa, who was known to use a Micro-Frets guitar during the early 1970s.

Struggles and Closure:

Unfortunately, despite its unique designs and endorsements from notable players, Micro Frets Guitars faced financial difficulties and struggled to compete with larger manufacturers. The company ceased production in the mid-1970s, and the original Micro Frets factory was eventually destroyed by fire, contributing to the rarity and collectibility of their instruments.

Legacy and Collectibility:

Micro Frets Guitars may have been short-lived, but their legacy lives on through the instruments that still exist today. The company’s innovative fretboard design and distinctive aesthetics have made their guitars highly sought-after collectibles among vintage guitar enthusiasts and fans of unique and obscure instruments. The scarcity of Micro Frets Guitars has only increased their value in the vintage guitar market, with original Caliber models commanding high prices at auctions and private sales.

Micro Frets Guitars will forever be remembered as a pioneering force in the world of guitar design and innovation. Despite their relatively short existence, the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of guitar technology and design left an indelible mark on the instrument’s history. The unique microtonal fretboard system and bold aesthetic choices of the Micro-Frets Caliber make these instruments highly coveted by collectors and musicians who appreciate the unconventional and forward-thinking approach that Micro Frets Guitars brought to the guitar world.

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