12 String tuning - neck tension

  • Thread starter Thread starter mikeh
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mikeh

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How many of you 12 string owners tune down a step to protect the neck.

I've read that 12 strings put a lot of tension on the neck/bridge (which makes sense) so it is best to tune down a step.

I've only had my axe a couplke of weeks ad it's still in standard tuning. I hate to mess with the tuning - but if I need to to protect the axe I will.
 
On my acoustic 12 strings, I tune to D (1st & 6th). I have an electric 12 I tune to pitch.
 
Yep I tune down 1/2 step. And if you value your guitar, you won't leave it tuned to pitch for extended periods of time. How long is it safe at standard pitch? "Till the bridge pops off, but no longer!


Twist
 
A solid body 12 with light gauge strings should be fine at concert pitch - mine is - but on an acoustic, it's common to tune down a tone or more. I've heard of people tuning down as far as C. Well made necks should be ok, but it seems to be the bridge, and warping of the top that's the risk.
 
Screw the neck, it's easier to play tuned down.


For awhile I had a Martin D12-20 as a second 12 string and out of curiosity and trying to get more voicings than a piano, tuned all the sets to fifths. 12 voices. Wierdest sound but it kind of works.
 
Thanks for the replys,

I guess I'll be retuning my axe tonight
 
I keep my Aria 12 string tuned to concert and haven't had a problem. I gigged with it in the early 80's playing four to five nights a week. Here I am 20 years later and the guitar is still playing great. If your guitar is well made there shouldn't be a problem.
 
What does your manufacturer suggest?

Paj
8^?

I usually tune down at least 3 or 4 half=steps (old school). Definitely four for extended stays in the case.
 
philboyd studge said:
Screw the neck, it's easier to play tuned down.
Click to expand...



PUSSY........(Just kidding)


Actually I have an Ovation that has been tuned normally with .010's on it and have not had any problem. The guitar is about 8 years old. I also have a Gibson 1275 doubleneck that is the same way.

On the other side, I had a Canadian made accoustic (Kasuga I believe). I had this one for about 30 years, always with 10s and always tuned normal. After 30 years, the top bowed up. It could not be dealt with anymore with the truss rod. I believe the neck is not the problem, but it is the top and/or the bridge adheasive.
 
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