Often the purpose of the elevated fingerboard is perceived as changing the string angle relative to the top and also improving playability for the left hand in the area above the twelfth fret. The elevated fingerboard is built into Vorreiter instruments with an entirely domed top exclusively for improved acoustics. The top should be parallel to the strings in the area of the bridge (as is found on traditional Spanish instruments), so that the oscillation of the top is symmetrical in all directions. This should minimize the dampening effect of the vibrating top on the strings and therefore improve the sustain. The geometrical result of these acoustic principles is that the top is located a few millimeters beneath the fingerboard. For those seeking an ergonomic modification that improves play above the twelfth fret, I recommend taking a look at the section “ergonomic features”.

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