12 Principles of Playing a 12-STRING

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Twelver lovers - you'll love this other video that I made with my Taylor: 50 Famous Riffs & Intros On A 12-String kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJzOgJygeZJ2g6c

[@Balefirebait]

T he end title should read: "Your Turn! Turn! Turn!"

[@TUSK1157]

I've owned nothing but high end Takamine 12strings. The great thing about them that they are designed to take the tension of of standard tuning. I will admit that they had a recall on the 2000 EF381 because the top was maple instead of spruce. But there's a reason bands like Eagles rely on them. They're workhorses that look and sound like thoroughbreds

[@williamdunbar8554]

I got my first 12 for graduation in 1975. It was a Yamaha. I dragged it along all over the world, and played it in Destroyer gun mounts, Aircraft Carrier hangers, at the Wall in Jerusalem, as well as Solomon's mines, and Petra Jordan, there were also lots of points in between. Had the bracing rebuilt once, and the setup adjusted I don't know how many times.The one tip I'd pass along is always use coated strings. They stay in tune longer, last longer, weather better, and greatly reduce slide scratch. I went to UCONN after the Navy, and as an elective I took classical guitar. Couldn't afford a classical guitar at the time, so I removed 1/2 the strings,and wallah I had a wide neck 6 string to use for class. I gave it away a few years ago to a guy who had no guitar. By now I have quite a collection of stringed instruments, but I do miss that old banger. She overcame a lot of weather, campfire smoke, desert heat, and even jungle humidity in the Philippines. There were nicks, scratches, signatures, and even an arrow hole in her, but she still played smoother than any of the new ones I picked up. If I ever run into him again I'd be happy to trade with him if he'd be interested. She was my first love, and has her name "Maggie" scratched into her body just below the bridge. Coated strings! Once I discovered those I've never used anything else. They are a game changer.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Bill Saxton awesome story Bill. Nothing like all those time marks on a loved guitar, I can relate. Mine also has scratches all over the world from it and I’m proud in each one of them.

[@alecuys1033]

That's so nice

[@aa.mirezZ]

If I were you I would of never parted with it. I’ve had my Feliz (6 string Taylor) for 12 years now. She’s overcame A LOT of struggles, and has helped me unwind after many of life’s problems. She has been beat up, plenty of times too, but I wouldn’t part with her. She was the very first acoustic guitar I’ve ever owned, and to this day the ONLY acoustic guitar I own. I get her adjusted every 8 months or so, and keep her in the case with a humidifier, and she sounds just like the day I played her for the first time in the store I got her in all those years ago. The shop I go to that adjust the truss rod always offers to buy her from me lol. A great acoustic that’s been through as much as you have has a story of its own, and at that point it’s more than a guitar. That’s a friend haha. Pretty cheesy, but that’s how I feel about my old Taylor.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

DR3AMSTASIS I agree, a guitar is way more than a guitar in some cases. 🙂

[@aerohunter7]

W Dunbar that ... is ... awesome. How many soldiers over the years felt just a bit better while far away from home and family with what your guitar brought to the “outing”? Thank you.

[@boaz63]

I grew up about a quarter mile from Bob Taylor, and always wanted a Taylor 12-string. I finally bought my first Taylor several years later after moving to LA after college. It was a jumbo-body 12. Loudest and clearest acoustic guitar ever! Several Taylors later, and I still love that first one. Great video. Thanks for posting! 😎👍

[@gsuderman]

I love my 12. I spend half my time playing out of tune and the other half tuning up. LOL

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

hahahah common problem

[@freddysnewchannel8885]

You ain't lying they can be a real pain in the butt.

[@08Barclay]

Bought my first new 12 string in 1970, a Yamaki Deluxe. Love 12 strings as well as my 6’s. I have a Fender 12 String from the early 1970’s which I have owned for 30 plus years. I have always left it tuned to standard pitch, and it hasnt warped or lifted the bridge. It stays in tune better than many of my other guitars. I’m fortunate to live in the interior of BC in a dry climate, which may have some bearing on that.

[@jonsibaila9417]

Great tips, I appreciate the bar chord suggestion and the encouragement to play harmonica. I was going to use a "harp" with "This Train" and now you have given me the push to use it on more songs. Keep up the good work!

[@freesk8]

I had a 2006 Washburn 12 string, which sounds great, but the action is a bit high mid-neck. I just bought a Seagull 12 string in walnut and the action is awesome, even back at the body! Only about $450. At the store, they had it tuned to E standard, and the action was fine! I like the idea of tuning it down a half or whole step, though. I'll try that. My finger picking sounds totally different on a 12 string. Sounds like I am just hitting the higher strings much of the time.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

That sounds awesome. Enjoy your new guitar!

[@johnmcrae3221]

You may want to get a good luthier to work on your guitar with the higher action. I did that with my Guild and it sounded better than it ever had before. Plus tons easier to play. Hope you keep enjoying yours.

[@missioncreekfarm7715]

I played a 12 string exclusively for about 30 years, and one technique that a 12 can do better than any other is the 'shine' and 'throat' (my terms). Do arpeggios up near the bridge to shine, and then open the strum by the throat - down closer to you left hand past the sound hole. Magic.

[@paulshort6454]

Well done. Thanks a lot. I might jump into the added challenges of a 12. Slow play, more picking than strum --especially noodling around an F chord, the capo usually in use --these elements make sense and have been promoted by another teacher (who resents 12 strumming). Good luck to you all.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

My pleasure Paul, thanks.

[@chadwickallison6277]

I just watched that you said the Chubb was best and that capo SXU! I get in a day or two and try and comment on here if the chubb works.

[@jameslucarelli2320]

Nice thorough explanation. I also tune down one half step for some songs . I did it to help my key for singing and I found out the guitar was easier to play - better action. Also I bought a Triad 10 string - no octaves on the lower E and A string and was useful for playing with a bass line accompaniment when fingerpicking

[@rwmcgeesr]

I have been playing a 1966 Mostrite Joe Maphis double neck 12 over 6 since 1966. I have never used a capo and I have no issues playing bar cords on it. I alternate between picks and finger picks depending on the song. I play 7 other instruments but not a harmonica. Maybe I'll try.

[@StratsRUs]

Great songs for the sound of 12 Strings being gloriously strummed are 'This Is The Sea' and ' A Pagan Place' by The Waterboys. Rules are ok but you have to play naturally whatever the song needs. And the pick/plectrum choice helps a lot !

[@patrickphippspa584]

What a handsome man so easy to look at and learn from. Thank you for your time.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Patrick PhippsPA ☺️

[@Brookzplayzmuzic]

Damn dude sounds like you are more interested in having him join your LGBT community than learning fucking music...smh

[@stevepope5484]

Thanks!

[@patrickbuzzo1970]

Although i'm not able to play guitar, i love the 12 string ! Beside the famous Mc Guinn 's Rickenbacker, i suggest to all 12 strings guitarists, to watch on you tube two brands that are not very known , but ,in my opinion, they sound great : Italia Rimini 12, and Ravenswood 12 . It you can't spend a lot of money for a Rick ,but you want that " Byrds sound" ,i suggest to consider these models.

[@PeteFolksinger]

I think this relates to the use of arpeggios, but mixing of strumming style with defined licks that really hit on the octave strings is a great technique featured in some of the Byrds/Roger McGuin songs.

[@julioguitarrista]

Nice...Do you have any video talking about your Taylor 12 string??? I´ve never seen one like that.

[@asmongoldsmouth9839]

*Why is everyone saying keeping a 12-string in tune is hard? I've been playing for 40+ years. I seldomly need to tune all of the strings.*

[@7775Kevin]

Excellent lesson. Thanks

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Glad you loved. All the best

[@peterking1270]

Thanks for the info, sounds very cool

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Peter King 🙏🏻

[@johnhonsky6404]

Fun video. Good advice.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lcor2009]

I have a beautiful 1958 Gibson BT45-12. But I use it a full tone down.

[@petermate4068]

Martin DX12 the best value 12 string on the market. Fuller with more depth than the equivalent Taylor. Around £700 new on UK market.

[@ScottWConvid19]

Is that D'Adario NS Artist capo listed as a six string guitar capo? I couldn't find one listed specifically as a twelve string

[@salademan]

my advice :) D.A.D.G.A.D tuning ! Opens tunings on 12 strings are fucking awesome !

[@OmegaMarioMaster]

When I picked up a 12 string for the first time, I forgot how to play guitar for like 5 minutes, it felt so weird cause I was so used to a 6 string

[@bobshultz5421]

Shopping for one now. I owned one for years and got used to the nuances. I also play a Spanish guitar which has similar neck width and dimensions. I’ve decided to get something around $500. Any recommendations?

[@bobshultz5421]

@Craven Greene You’re correct. All the guitars I like are over $1000.

[@antduke1214]

Thank you

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

You're welcome

[@jamesmorrison2063]

Hey, I'm 64 yrs old and my fingernails aren't sufficiently durable to use for as much as I play. I started using fiberglass fingernails like James Taylor does. They sound great, but I had to temporarily remove them as I started getting nail fungus at the edges because of washing them too often. Arg!

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

James Morrison I know that some players like John Butler use different kinds of nail builds, perhaps another one would work better for you.

[@PhillProbst]

'Bout the only point I would quibble with is his pick advise. His take is about the opposite of mine.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@UCl-Q7BGxYUbTrYAMA3sT0dw It's also recommended to wear finger picks when finger picking it.

[@jansaylor4318]

Question? 65 yr old Mimi, has not played either guitar not keyboard, nor vocals for 20 yrs. Live alone with furkid. I prefer my 12 string. Playing since 3rd grade piano, singing since age 3. Been in bands, beginning age 9 for 4H, age 14 went solo. Married, had son, divorced. In '87 joined band were together 5 yrs, classic rock, love Pink Floyd. Sorry. I desperately need strings for 12 string acoustic, and maybe 6 string acoustic/electric. 20 yrs, collecting dust/cobwebs. Could you advise on what brand, mainly 12 string, no callouses, and type to begin using with elderly fingers? I can play by note, prefer playing by ear my whole life. Jan Have to order. Live in rural Texas, Wallyworld is all we have. 20 yr old car retired, so no transportation. Live as a recluse. Thank you. Considering my best gift, vocals, for KZbin. Haven't seen 16, 13 yr old grandchildren since Thanksgiving Arpeggios??????? Also, where to order 12 string cappo. Never learned bar chords, just wasn't interested. Will ask 67 yr old minister brother lives in Missouri past 40 yrs, naturally plays all the time.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Jan Saylor hi Jan. I always used the elixir nanoweb 12 strings set (I think there’s just one option for it) and they always felt perfect and last long. Have a great week.

[@jansaylor4318]

@@GuitarSongsMasters where could I find the cappo you use? And these strings will be ok for my non-callous fingers? Thank you. Sorry, it's been too many years. Use to buy from a friend's music store, even had them put on, or our lead guitarist would put strings on. I gave up music when became caregiver to disabled veteran dad in my home for 17 yrs. Was church pianist for a short time. Lost dad in 2011, then mother was hit fast gad hard with Dementia, lost her Feb 2019. So, I'm really out of loop.

[@jansaylor4318]

@@GuitarSongsMasters one more question please Light gauge? Medium Flatwound? Roundwound?

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Jan Saylor shubb has a good capo for 12 strings. And the type of strings is elixir 12 light nanoweb.

[@jansaylor4318]

@@GuitarSongsMasters Cooper-Guitar I did it. Ordered strings for my 12 string Elixir light Ordered a pkg of pics Ordered a capo Ordered strings for my banjo Looking for at least a silver machine head to replace ugly black one after silver one stripped. Wish me goodluck on getting my 65 yr old thin skin to get callouses. Whoop Whoop

[@dannybearden3489]

Use a compressor if amplified

[@JianLakerson]

Make it ring bro!

[@aerohunter7]

My 12 string tip would be, while tuning the high E and B pairs, to have one string in each pair “dead on” with the tuner, then tune the second string in each pair JUST ENOUGH sharper to hear the sound “open up” when the two strings are played together. It doesn’t take much, but makes a HUGE difference sonically.

[@edfederoff2679]

I know what you're saying.... Do you know how many "cents" that would be, roughly? By my ear, I tune to dead on by trimming out the slight harmonic "beating" between the strings, then sharpen the second string to just below the beginning of the beat.

[@aerohunter7]

@@edfederoff2679 not sure on that. I just tune them both “dead nuts” with a tuner, then let them both ring together and “tweak” one until the tone widens by ear.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

thanks! that brings a nice chorus effect indeed

[@stevenspikes5474]

I hear this tip a lot. I tried it and I like it a lot. I have some hearing impairment and I can definitely appreciate the difference it makes in the way your brain perceives a note.

[@jltrem]

I do the same but I'll tune one string a tiny bit flat instead of sharp.

[@thomespinos4148]

The hardest thing on a 12 string guitar is keeping it in tune.

[@bobshultz5421]

Thom Espinos I’m reluctant to use the tech devices. I was able to keep well tuned using harmonics and my own ears, a good thing because you must constantly tune it!

[@Mickocarbomb]

Just get a graph tech graphite nut or big bends nut sauce.

[@bergman6581]

I have a Guild 2612 deluxe 12 string and I don't have that problem. Maybe 1 or 2 strings and it's only a 10th of a note. I actually tune my 6 string more often that the Guild. I was so excited because everybody was like "you have to tune it constantly" nope no luck with my Guild....maybe if I buy a 2,000 dollars Taylor 12 string...I get lucky and I'll have to constantly tune it

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

That's why some have a built in tuner to solve that problem.

[@LostPlectrum]

Really? Mine stays in tune for months...

[@rcboals]

I have been playing guitar over 60 years. I am so old I remember when there was no internet or let alone KZbin. I just bought my third 12 string haven't had one for over 10 years. When I attempted to play them in the past I made them sound awful and said heck with this. So, in my old age I decided to commit myself to learning how to make a 12 string sound good. Thanks to you, and several other 12 string "youngsters" 😀 on KZbin. By golly! I actually can make it sound good. Thank You for putting in the time to share your teaching gift.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

hahaha awesoe to hear Raye, rock on!

[@Fukna69]

I’m with ya Raye, i been playing bout the same, hard to tune and couldn’t afford the strings, twice as much 😂

[@xkguy]

If you play the 12 string you spend half your life tuning the guitar and the other half playing it out of tune...Pete Seeger.

[@kingrobert1st]

My 12 string wisdom...Don't buy a cheap production 12 string version...they are just 6 string guitars with 12 slotted top nut and bridge saddle and are not capable of taking the extra tension of 6 extra strings. Look for jumbo bodies with massive wood and preferably hand made. They will have a wider neck to accommodate the extra strings and have a stronger braced body. Always tune down 2 or 3 steps to reduce string and neck tension this gives easier playing, deeper bass and shorter fret spacing. Then capo up to get back to concert tuning. Use a medium gauge string to keep the strings in tension and create a richer tone. Use open tunings to avoid the bar chords. Try not to bend strings: it is hard to bend 2 strings simultaneously. Use a thump pick for travis picking. Look for the tolerance between sets of strings: the further apart the strings are cut, the easier it is to isolate single strings while picking and allows the full sound of each string to resonate separately.There is a major difference between downstroke and upstroke when strumming and especially arpeggio. This is because the thinner "sympathetic" string lies in the shadow of the dominant string. eg: intro to Hotel California. Play slowly because this gives the guitar time to resound and give the full overtones. Choose rag time and folk rather than jazz and pop. Listen to bands that use 12 string a lot like Supertramp, Genesis, Pink Floyd and of course the masters of 12 string like Leo Kottke and Steve Tibbets. 'nuff said.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

THANKS! Great stuff man.

[@thepatrioticpopulist768]

That's why I like my eko. She may be cheap but she is built like a tank

[@kingrobert1st]

Does she drive like a tank? /s

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

would be happy to see a pic

[@thepatrioticpopulist768]

King Robert at times. I'm saving for a Taylor of Maybe a Martin some day. But I just couldent pass up a steel necked 12 string for basicly nothing. She plays great as far as playability and a clear tone. She is still not a Martin but she is Definitley a purpose built 12er

[@ericjungemann5220]

I've played 12 strings for about 50 years. Mostly Taylors but also Guild, Gibson, Rickenbacker. Tuning down half a step is really a good idea even on a 12 string as easy to play as the Taylor (not my tip but really from Roger McGuinn of the Byrds). Makes the sound slightly deeper as well. For me, a full step down requires medium strings. I use Elixir Nano light guage. Great list from you Alon!

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Thanks for the tip, I'll try it. Best, Alon

[@lyndonfox3030]

I might try it as I'm new to the 12 string so I'm eager to try new stuff and any ideas, but I prefer adagio strings mate

[@zibbezabba2491]

Always tune your 12 string down 2 semitones. If not your Bridge will gradually move upwards and forwards bending the soundboard outta shape and raising the action. There's a huge amount of tension placed on it in standard tuning. Place a capo on 2nd fret for standard tuning. That's my tip.

[@petermate4068]

Zibbe Zabba not necessary on a quality instrument

[@zibbezabba2491]

@@petermate4068 I had a guitar shop for about 5 years. Quite a few of the 12 strings brought in by customers had the hump.

[@johnmcrae3221]

Amen!!

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@zibbezabba2491 Nowadays there are 8 Gauge Strings for a 12 String

[@louismtl2]

I have owned a Guild GAD 12 12 string for 17 years now and it is always tuned standard with 010 gauge and the bridge hasn't moved on it.

[@dukebacher1216]

I've been playing a 12 for 43 (oh shit I'm old!) years. From the first time I played one, it just felt right. I fumble around with a 6, but it's just not comfortable. All of your tips are spot-on, but you're giving away all our secrets! (just kidding) If I may add: Go with a good brand guitar. My primary 12 is a Seagull, and I rarely have to touch up the tuning... Medium Strings (I prefer Elixr), Replace the strings when they sound dull, not just because they are 6 months old... and if you're going to play through an amp, run 'er through a chorus pedal (not heavy, but enough to make it sweet)... and for God's sake, when you string it up, put about 4-5 wraps around the capstan! When you find a song that you think sounds nice, practice it with your eyes closed, and truly LISTEN to the beauty you're making. A 12 string is God's gift to music: "12 for the best, 6 for the rest".

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Awesome comment my friend, thanks a lot - always good to hear when somebody has so much love for the twelve!

[@MrTimdriver]

Duke Bacher sound advice dude.

[@eekamoose]

I know the feeling, I'm close to your 43 years. I bought a Fender 12-string (possibly made in Japan, possibly by Samick in S. Korea) in 1980 when I was 19 and I still play it. It doesn't put out much bass, even with the K&K Pure Mini 12-string pickup that I treated it to a few years ago, but it still sounds great. For a few years in the 1980s it was the only guitar I had, and I played just about everything on it -- folk, country, rock, pop, rock 'n roll, reggae. All sounded good. I bought a Guild 12-string a few years ago and that sounds like pure heaven, but I still have a deep attachment to the Fender -- a guitar grows on you over 40 years...

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

eekamoose Nice story. And those Guild twelvers are amazing indeed. I definitely want one, one day. Which model do you have?

[@eekamoose]

@@GuitarSongsMasters My Guild is a D25-12 from 1990 in beautiful condition . I paid about 1450 US Dollars (10 000 Danish Kroner) for it in Denmark a few years ago. 12-strings tend to stay in great condition even if they are 30-40-50 years old because they don't get thrashed and they are often a 'second guitar' that doesn't get played much. However, the extra strings put stress on the guitar so you need to check 12-strings carefully when you buy. Look for as little belly bulge as possible, a good neck with a good action, and check that the bridge is not lifting away from the top. The bridge was lifting very slightly when I bought mine (from a shop that conveniently didn't mention that issue) and I was so blown away by the sound and the general condition of the guitar that I didn't check the bridge at the time. I'm going to have to pay my luthier to reglue the bridge but then the guitar will be in close to mint condition again. Good luck finding one.

[@VictorYanezIII]

No stairway

[@rainerwinkler1026]

Intro wasnt even played on a 12 string

[@spiritzweispirit1st638]

Thanks! That Brought Back Great Memories! \m/🎸

[@jamesthe-doctor8981]

The "No Stairway" rule only applies to music stores. 😂

[@peterking1270]

first song

[@mattderynioski1434]

No stairway, denied!

[@marcscordato4385]

12 strings are wonderful for praise and worship music . I have a steal string a classical and 12 string each has its own distinct voice it’s the holy trinity of guitars

[@ronzphotography3277]

I wonder what Jimmy Page, Rik Emmett, Frank Hannon, George Harrison, Roger McGuinn, John Denver, Gordon Lightfoot and others would say about your comment.

[@Legendary2003]

I agree! I've got a 1966 EKO guitar made in Italy and signed by the luthier. I'm not sure what it's worth, but I played this instrument in in my church for a couple years before the bridge lifted and I had to loosen the strings to save what I could of it. That was back in the early '90's.

[@lisaerhard9817]

You are right! Praise him with 12!

[@missioncreekfarm7715]

I played 12 string as a worship leader for decades. My Martin got stolen and I stepped back to a 6. But I agree. It's a great instrument for praise and worship.

[@aerohunter7]

Agreed, but my "trinity" is a 6 string Cole Clark "Angel 3', a 12 string Mason "Messiah" and a PRS hollow body II ... they get a lot of church play!

[@mikegreen5619]

Excellent lesson. Just bought my first acoustic 12 string after playing 6 strings for 40 years and these are great tips from a youngster to this old geezer.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Mike Green congrats on your new guitar Mike, and thanks. All the best.

[@end.olives]

Hey how did you do with it? Im getting mine to be my main guitar guess its too late to change now, but im anxious that it will be a problem to play the songs that i like

[@stanwray4070]

The most fun I have had playing 12 string guitar was when I learned to play “ Hear my train a-comin’ “ ( Jimi Hendrix ) .

[@drdobbs007]

The one thing that keeps me interested in playing my 12-string is alternate tunings (e.g., open Gsus4 tuning for Led Zeppelin the Rain Song). Your tips and tricks are much appreciated.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

My pleasure!

[@davidshowalter37]

I just purchased a 40 year old Ovation Glen Campbell that is in excellent condition. THe neck on these are incredible straight and the action very low. I am 75 years old and owned one in 1971. I had forgot how much fun 12 strings are to play and how many songs they have been used on. Thanks for the great tips. I will use them. Excellent video!

[@drdouggreen]

I bought my Guild 12-string in 1963 and it still sounds great. I have a luthier look it over now and then. Your advice is spot on, keep it coming.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Thank you! Love the Guild twelvers.

[@5400bowen]

I just bought one last week brand new. It sounds like a piano!

[@Dogband]

Thank you for this video and tips. I have been struggling with my Taylor 855 Jumbo Taylor for 16 years, and just recently due to some fretting hand pain...… almost sold it. Your tips will help me once again try to embrace this monster acoustic guitar. Here are some tips I have. One, if it is high quality 12 string tuning to pitch is fine. Mine has been there 16 years in a temp/humidity controlled environment. However, just in the past few weeks I have tuned down a whole step, and I think I will leave it there. The lower string tension seems to be giving me some fret hand pain relief. [Sidebar: always get used to good hand stretching and exercises before playing. Now at age 63, with some pain, I wish I had done this always and will now do it going forward] I have always capoed and re-written songs in different keys, so I will rework some songs. Example, I play a song in A at capo III, to equal a C. Now with my 12 tuned down, I can play the song in D, tuned down to equal the key of C. Next, if your 12 string is a bit jingly jangly, try different strings. I have silk and steels on my now and it helped this a good bit. I may go back to phosphor bronze, but as before, I will use EXP coated strings to tone this sound down just a bit too. Take time to explore the various techniques in this video, they are all quite good. Many thanks for posting.

[@DrDobbe]

How much do you want for your Taylor? Been looking for a good one and yours sounds interesting! Message me back through here if you are serious and I will get you better contact info. Thanks!!! Blessings!

[@MrBroJH]

If you play mostly alone drop tune a full step it sounds good and is easier to play...If you play with someone else you can capo the 2nd fret and be in standard tune!

[@markbrown7103]

I’ve been playing guitar since 1974. I am a melodic solo instrumental guitarist. I can’t wait to play hotel California on my 12th string. Want to do one dead or alive these songs are great Norwegian. It is a beautiful song for a 12 strain guitar. If you cable the 12th and the D the G and the B strings you will have a mandolin. It is the same tuning as a mandolin 12 up Andelyn is one octave higher than a 12 strange guitar. I fluently read music. I started reading music in 1981. This is my first 12 string guitar after playing guitar for over 50 years, wish me luck you play it very beautiful. Have a beautiful day.❤️❤️😄😎🎸🎼🎵🎶🎸😎

[@user-lj3tg4nk3e]

Hey......the sign says "No Stairway!" .....Denied!

[@ranterdon]

Useful info even after playing 12's for 43 years or so.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

That's long before I was even thought of. Thanks for the compliment Don!

[@SuperJ333]

Get a G7th compensated 12-string capo. Check them out on eBay or wherever - the rubber is cut 'stepped' so it's thinner over the thickest string of each pair, and thicker over the thinner string of each pair - if you follow that! You can also adjust the tension in position so it's just enough - the result is even pressure, no excessive pressure, and the guitar stays in tune - only wish I'd discovered them earlier!

[@wongnaichungrd]

Amen re bar chords! Unless you're playing the break in Space oddity!

[@joebond5012]

Great to see your enthusiasm, and enjoyment of the 12 string guitar. Love my Simon-Patrick 12 string, but alas I will never do it justice, as I have more enthusiasm than talent.

[@artemmm095]

Of course 12-string guitar sounds great if it's f****n' Tailor...

[@timothysullysullivan2571]

if you like the Beatles, tune to Drop D and then play Norweigan Wood (D key, not E) and segue into Dear Prudence in D. Lots of fun, easy to play and sounds great.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Nice one!

[@M1kE13100]

If only y'all knew how WE play 12 strings lol we as in mexicans, we buy it, strip the octave string off, and pair it with another set of regular strings, we call it "pares" pairs, yall play it in octaves the way it comes, we use it paired, our music we use them in is called "sierreño" corridos tumbados is a good new style genre where we use them too, we have a rhythm player on a 6 string and lead on 12

[@clydeadair3809]

I have a fender acoustic/electric 12. It has become my favorite for praise and worship at our church, especially when my son brings his 12 string as well.

[@tedtedsen269]

12-STRING=half the time is to tuning it. the other half is playing out of tune and the bonus is curved neck 12 string applies twice the pressure as a 6 stringer on the bridge

[@BraveheartOBM]

Listen to the tones/harmonics and it's never a problem ... that said though, Old Blue Moses would not let me play it in our band ... urgh ... I reckoned it would have added an extra dimension on some stuff ..

[@davidlong1971]

While most of the time you will want to hit both strings of a pair, it is possible to play only 1 string of a pair by (finger) picking . For example, at the end of hotel california, there are twin guitar arpeggios; if you want to get the high note on the end of each run, play most of it the normal way but for the last note of the arpeggio simply pick the high octaved g string alone w/o sounding the lower octave.

[@patrickstracener5329]

Throw away that regular guitar pick and take up the Shark Fin. Its multi ridged edge grabs each of the 12 strings and intonates them either individually or separately depending on the angle of attack.

[@robertcox14]

Sorry, I have no nostalgia for "12 string classics," that sound like noise pollution.

[@BraveheartOBM]

Not even the start of Floyd's 'wish you were here' ..... or Boston's more than a feeling ... Eagles Hotel California... even ...

[@markharwood7573]

This is good stuff that every 12-string player ought to know. Well done.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Thanks Mark!

[@Theweeze100]

I tune my 12 string down 1/2 step. It gives me a more robust resident base sound on the bottom, also lessens to tension on my strings. Helps me because I am an older player and don’t have the same strength I once had in my left hand. Also helps with bringing the key down to make singing easier. If I need to play that standard pitch I just throw in a capo.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Thanks for the great tip Frank! Appreciate it.

[@erleclaire]

On a twelve standard tuning may not sound right. However, if after standard tuning you tune by harmonics you will get a much fuller sound. No guitar is perfectly built, so find where it sings best!

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Thanks!

[@LonskiBig]

...12 string was the FURTHEST from my mind....I have a hard enough time playing 6- string since I didn't start learning until I was 56 y/o...But I accidently clicked on one while shopping for guitars....it sounded different, richer, fuller.......Now I'm noticing they play to my strengths...open chords....with a capo....aaaahhh...that's what I like...and this video has it sounding like magic...will be scraping some $$ together

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Haha thank you for your great words Lonnie. If you're a cowboy chords guy then they definitely will tap your strengths. Enjoy!

[@Billsingsong]

How do you tune your guitar 1/2 step lower, one whole step lower, or leave it in standard tuning?

[@danielibnz]

@Bill Last Sorry to butt in... on this video, his guitar is tuned in standard tuning.

[@sunbrosolaire3952]

Or -tune it 5 half-steps down and do some Blind Willie McTell action

[@Letsthinkthisthrough88]

Thank you for putting this together! My 12 String Tip (like many others have said): Tune it down a half or whole step - Less tension on the instrument, easier to fret, and a capo works more easily without crazily throwing off your tuning. Secondly, a proper set up is essential.

[@ARTUROSIERRALOPEZ]

My easiest guitar to play is my 12 string

[@martinh1277]

Not enough bass on a 12? Take a magnetic pickup, a tiny valve amplifier and a big speaker. As long as it is not loud, you can hear the bass pretty good and so the other strings. If you have done this, tune C G C G C E. Take the E from the harmonic of the C. See what is changed. You can play now bass and chords. It is a different instrument.

[@JoeCarpenter]

Voila....Open C tuning. 😉 Time to play Kottke's "Busted Bicycle"!

[@martinh1277]

@@JoeCarpenter This tuning also can be used for singing with a deep voice.

[@drdouggreen]

Thanks. I've been playing a Guild 12-String since 1963 and have discovered on my own most of your tips. They are all right on the money. Keep up the good work.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

Cooper - Acoustic Inspirations I use Special Strings that have a lower tension to allow for quick playing E Standard Tuning. Thomastik Infeld AC210 Plectrum Bronze strings w/ Brass Plated Trebles, they give me a nice Classical Tone w/ a Jazz-esque Feel. They sound a bit like Gypsy Jazz Strings so they're a little bit less sustained & mellower sounding. Great for getting that Gypsy Jazz vibe.

[@don6538]

Try a G7th Newport 12 string capo with compensated string pad. Put this on and no re-tuning required. It has a saw-tooth pad to adjust pressure equally for both the smaller octave strings and the regular strings. I tune both my Taylor 12 stringers a half step down to D#, so capo 1 gets me right to standard tuning. Only works with 12ers that have leading octave strings, like most do except Rickenbackers. I understand that new V-braced Taylor 12s may also be strung backwards in the future.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Don thanks, I already found a good capo for it by Shubb.

[@don6538]

Cooper, Whatever works for you, it works for you. I've used Shubb capoes for over 40 years, and now find them wanting in the face of G7th Performance 3 and G7th Newport 12. Sadly wanting in the case of the Shubb 12 because of all the extra tuning required to use it / take it off.

[@mikmaz77]

Great points my friend...my 2 cents after years of playing a Godin A12 string, the Kaiser capo is the best, a nylon pick (.60 and .73 for me) takes the brightness down a bit ..and a slow rake upstroke sounds great..close to the bridge as well!

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Nice! Thanks for the tips Michael!

[@RedVestChequeredShirt]

I love my 11 string ^

[@CountryKen]

These are good common sense recommendations. I found that I do most of these already, but, yes, I'll have to explore some that I hadn't thought of. One to add: When playing with others in a jam, be conscious of your volume. Banging away on your 12 can screw up the dynamics of a group effort.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Ken Connors great tip Ken, thank you.

[@markymark560]

Take a look at Leo Kottke playing 12 string.

[@eekamoose]

I recommend Shubb capos. They have a model that matches the slightly wider necks on 12-strings. You can adjust Shubbs to get whatever tension you want -- I set them fairly close to the fret to minimize the deflection of the string and just tight enough to eliminate buzz but not over-tight which would send the guitar out of tune. Paying attention to these two points I rarely have to re-tune when I put one of these capos on any kind of guitar, including 12-strings.

[@jltrem]

Agree. I use a Shubb on my 12 with great results.

[@timcavileer7024]

Good stuff! I keep my 12-string tuned to DADGAD which does two things 1) forces me to practice in DADGAD and 2) lowers the tension on the bridge.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Tim Cavileer nice tip. I‘ll try that open D as well, will be interesting to see how it behaves.

[@monstersince]

i mash g strings in drop d.

[@BushidoPhoto]

G7th also makes a 12 string specific CAPO. I use it and get no buzzing as well.

[@antonioortiz4544]

Here are my 2 cents. I find that the nature and sound of the 12 string changes dramatically when you reverse the order of the thinner string and the heavier octave string. I have two 12 strings: My acoustic 12 string is strung the traditional way. My electric 12 string has the strings reversed and I also use flat wounds, which sound amazing on an electric. Ifind myself playing each one very differently.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Nice ones!

[@warren52nz]

I've been looking for a 12 string with that "magic" sound for over 20 years and about 6 months ago I found it. A Martin. A Taylor would have done it too I'm sure, I have a 6 string Taylor too.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

Warren NZ congrats Warren!

[@PompeyMatt17]

I've been playing 6 strings for years and I recently bought a Fender 12 string..stunned out how different and unforgiving it is..setup was way too high so sanded down the saddle, stiffened up the truss road..then kept breaking the high octave G.. so now I tune it a whole step down to D...you have to be so precise with your fingering and picking on a 12 string..

[@hollistermattraw2465]

Harmonicas sound terrible with any guitar.

[@malcolmbrewer]

That's funny, but worse with a piano...

[@tikigodsrule2317]

Neil Young had no problem finding an audience for 40 years. It's a matter of taste I guess.

[@GuitarSongsMasters]

agreed to disagree (:

[@stevepope5484]

I was thinking of returning my new Chinese Takamine 12. Bar chords are more difficult. I used my ear and you tube. The tuner on here? Didn't work well? Last new guitar for actually less than this 538.00 Was a 500.00 Gibson with a rose wood back/hard sheel case. Well that was 1975?

[@JoeCarpenter]

I don't see it mentioned in the comments (let me know if I missed it), but another tip is to flat the b string pair by just a few cents. I found it best to tune to the open D string at your 3rd fret, 2nd string (B string). And just thought of another one; For adding some nice lower-end tone (especially if you tune down), replace the steel octave A string with a wound. I've used as high as .024, but anything from .018-.024 will work.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@UCl-Q7BGxYUbTrYAMA3sT0dw The Harmonica has always been a Guitarists accompaniment instrument.

[@emanueleguerriericiaceri8523]

I'think the tuning is also very important. Some players use to down tuning a whole tone, some use the drop D tuning, some use a whole tone down and drop C. I experimented also dadgad and open d tunings, but it's difficult to play some chords, beside the fact that these tunings are conceived especially for a 6 strings guitar

[@vogonpoet5860]

played 6 for 40 years, got a 12 a year ago. After tuning, learning to pick, next most useful ? EXPERIMENT ! play around, see what sounds you like, my next is to try bowing my electric 12, my acoustic neck may be too wide.

[@orvillegibson188]

Hey mate. I've searched forever for a sound hole mounted harp arm but can't find one. Was yours a custom made item? Please pass on any info you can, as I find neck brace holders difficult to use and adjust to a comfortable and usable position. I play only 12ers, electric and acoustic, and my quiver includes a 12 string Bajo Sexto from Mexico, a hand made 12 string brass body Dobro, a 12 string banjo, a D'Angelico 12 electric, a Gretsch 'Chet Atkins' Country Gent 12, a Martin 12 'Shenandoah', a Morris Brazilian Rosewood 12er from the 70s,and my prized Gibson 12 string Hummingbird Custom Shop Limited run from 2017. Others will be added. I have a suite of Hohner Marine Bands in 10 keys, and a rare Hohner diatonic from the 1950s. I'm serious about 12s and harps. Hope you can help me.

[@josephleto7583]

I stand with aerohunter below on having the E & B 2nd string tuned off, but slightly lower, not higher. It makes the 12 string "Open Up" with a better 12 string sound!

[@petermate4068]

Use lightweight strings on 12 string. Perhaps 10-42? Always keep spare high G’s…like a 7 or 8. They are vulnerable. Change strings regularly…well at least every three or four months. Lots of open chords ..mainly first position. Learn your mini-chords up the neck. Avoid bar chords wherever possible.

[@MacPakinga-gl8bu]

Self taught at the age of 8 . Now 64. I have two 12 strings brand. EKO Italian buetiful sound 🎸🎸. Vintage 🎸. Never out of tune since only changed strings twice last for years depending if you're a heavy player or ect ect 👍🏼❤ love my 12 strings 🎸🎸

[@BraveheartOBM]

Could that be an Eko Ranger 12 by any chance ... if so ... snap ... since 1966 mine's been through everything and still plays sweetly ... not by itself you understand ... hoho

[@MacPakinga-gl8bu]

@@BraveheartOBM have two rangers 50s & 60s not for sale stays in tune definitely. 🤘🏼🎸

[@BraveheartOBM]

@@MacPakinga-gl8bu quite right ... we would soon regret any sale ... cheers

[@MacPakinga-gl8bu]

@@BraveheartOBM keepers 🎸🤘🏼

[@jomama55ful]

Another tip (personal preference) is to reverse the base strings (E A D) and place the octave strings below the base string ala Rickenbacker style. It helps prevent the thumb catching on the octave strings during fingerpicking. I like that it gives your base notes a bit of a deeper tone, with a bit more resonance. I also noted the issue with nail length between my 6 string and my 12 string. Still trying to find the optimal length, but mostly I go with no nails, so that I have a better feel for the strings. I do give up that sharp attack, but If I really need that, then finger picks can be used. Finally Igor Presnyakov simply removes the octave strings from the E and A (and sometimes D), which also gives a deeper tone to your base line for fingerpicking songs.

[@HowlingUlf]

Thanks a lot! Saved a lot of hours over a lot of weeks turning into years by watching a 10 minute video instead of stubbornly figuring it out on my own. Do I have a 12:th tip after owning this thing for 2 weeks??? Yeah, I actually do. Only use your tuner to get into the ballpark and then use your ears to get the sound out of each pair or group of strings. The guitar is a weird instrument and kind of flawed even with six strings. Like the B on second string sounds fine in an E chord but too high in a G chord, because it's a third in the G. Look it up. And learn how to fine tune by ear and you get more sounds out of one guitar than you'd ever imagined. No drastic differences though, but the devil is in the details, right? :D