Tuning 12-String Guitars; Changing Strings - Guild - REV B Owner's Manual

Tuning 12-String Guitars

Due to the tremendous amount of tension exerted
on the neck by the 12 strings, we suggest that you use
a light gauge string set, such as the Guild XL-1000 or
L-1250 on your 12-string guitar.
In standard 12-string tuning, the second string in
each pair is tuned to the same pitches, E, A, D, G, B,
E, and using the same methods as the six string guitar
on the previous page.
For the E, A, D, and G strings, the first smaller
string in each pair is tuned to the same note, but an
octave higher in pitch than its partner. For the B and
E strings, the first string in each pair is tuned in
unison, (exactly the same pitch), as its partner string.
Many players find it difficult to press the strings
down on a 12-string, due to the high tension caused
by the extra strings.
A remedy that some players choose is to tune the
entire guitar to a lower relative pitch, such as E-flat
or D; thereby reducing the string tension. You may
then use a capo on the first or second fret, to bring it
back up to where it plays at standard pitch.
The guitar will certainly be easier to play, and the
reduced tension will put less stress on the neck over
time, but bear in mind that it will also sacrifice a bit
of the tone projection of the instrument.
All Guild 12-strings feature a double truss rod
system for superior strength and improved accuracy
with the adjustments, however, a 12-string tuned at
standard pitch, should be monitored regularly for the
possible need of truss rod adjustments. A guitar in
need of an adjustment that is ignored may develop
permanent problems. (See page 14.) Please Note:
Warpage of the neck, caused by the neglect of
necessary adjustments will not be covered under
the Guild warranty.
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Changing Strings

A new set of strings can breathe renewed life into
your instrument. That is why many "tone-conscious"
touring professionals change their strings before
every performance. While there is no set rule on how
often to change strings, we have found that most
players do not change them nearly as often as they
should.
Body oils, acids from sweaty hands and humidity
all interact with the metals in guitar strings and cause
a corrosion and breakdown of the materials.
Don't wait until your strings break and fall off from
old age before you change them. Worn, oxidized,
pitted and dirty strings will not hold pitch, and simply
sound bad. If you are an average player, playing
several times a week, we suggest that you change the
strings at least once a month.
When changing strings, we recommend that you
remove and replace each string one at a time, instead
of all at once. This will prevent sudden and
potentially damaging changes in neck tension. Each
new string should be tuned up to correct pitch before
the next one is removed.
When tuning a brand new string, always bring it up
to pitch slowly. Otherwise, the rapid stretching may
cause the string to break.
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