Beginner’s Guide To 12 String Guitars
12 Different Strings: One Guitar
Why would anyone need 12 strings someone may ask when thinking of the 12 string guitar. 12 String guitars can be intimidating because they contain twice the amount of strings. How in the world would you keep a thing in tune? Now get out of that mind frame and really pay attention to why these guitars are so unique. Among the instruments notable players are, Leo Kottke, Jimmy Page, Leadbelly and Derek Deprator are notable 12 string guitar players.
The number of strings can complicate guitar picking. Because of this the 12 string is rarely used for lead parts in songs. The 12 string guitar is perfect for folk song playing of any type.
Though awkward at first, the 12 string guitar can be played with ease given enough practice.
Why 12 String Guitar?
The 12 string acoustic guitar creates unique ringing tones. The subtle differences in string timbre create a sort of natural chorus effect.12 string guitars will give you a fuller richer and louder sound, especially if you want to stay acoustic and be loud yet not plug in. 12 string guitars are most commonly acoustic, though electric models are made.
12 Strings Basics And Tunings
Usually strung with steel strings. The 12 string guitar usually is comprised from six courses having two guitar strings each. Think of a mandolin, which has a similar string layout. Also, think of one course as representing one string when comparing to a regular 6 string. Often, the space between courses is narrow then spacing on conventional guitars. The two highest courses or pairs are tuned in unison. Others are tuned by octaves.
Until recently, the traditional tuning of 12 string guitars was lower then the 6 string counterpart. Open tunings have created a guitar sound which can seem similar to a whole orchestra, at least in spirit!
The player has the option to actually buy a 12 string guitar tuner. This is recommended until one gets comfortable with the unique tuning process.
12 String Guitar Drawbacks
12 strings on a guitar puts an extreme amount of tension on a guitar’s body causing warping within just a few short years. Because of this some models have constructed non traditional support into the body to create a longer lasting guitar. Unfortunately, this also has set backs as this can affect appearance and even tone (depends on the model).
Breaking Rules
Like all instruments, rules are made to be broken. Some players remove some of the courses to allow easier playing of bass lines while keeping the higher strings for strumming. This gives an effect of almost playing two guitars at once!
Buying A 12 String Guitar
A 12 string guitar is not a purchase made with any type of carelessness. One should research and then research some more. One can find a cheaply priced 12 string guitar, yet be wary of such brands as they’re probably a cheap construction. You’ll have a warped guitar before you know it. Instead, at least look over the three hundred dollar mark. The twelve string guitar by its very nature is an investment. Also physically handle the 12 string before laying your wallet down. Unless you have owned one before, don’t order online. With precaution and for thought, you will be soon on your way strumming the 12 string guitar, a unique club among guitar players.
Additional Pro Guitar World Articles
Beginner’s Guide to Harmonicas
Beginner’s Guide To Guitar Slides
A Beginner’s Guide To Capos: Versatility
Choosing Bass Strings
Beginner’s Guide To Guitar Tuners
Beginner’s Guide To 12 String Guitars
Beginner’s Guide To Guitar Pickups: Finding that Right Sound
Painting The Air: Beginner’s Guide to Effects Pedals
Beginner’s Guide To Buying An Acoustic Guitar
A Beginner’s Guide to Guitar Strings
Picking Through: Choosing Guitar Picks
The Dirt on Distortion: A Simple Guide to Getting Dirty
Deep Dark Notes: A Beginner's Guide to Bass
Buying a Drum Set: A Beginner’s Commonsense Guide
Choosing a Guitar Amplifier
How To Play Guitar - Getting Started
What to Look For in a Guitar Humidifier
Choosing the Right Guitar
Learn How To Play The Guitar - A Checklist For Online Lessons