Tuning 12-String Guitars - Guild 2014 Acoustic Guitar Owner's Manual

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Tuning 12-String Guitars

A 12-string guitar exerts a
tremendous amount of tension
on its neck, which is why Guild
suggests using light-gauge strings.
In standard 12-string tuning, the
second string in each pair is tuned
to standard pitch (E A D G B E) just
like a six-string guitar and using the
same methods described previously.
For the low E, A, D and G pairs, the
first string in each pair (the thinner
one) is tuned an octave higher than
its partner. For the B and high E pairs,
the strings are tuned in unison.
The higher tension caused by six
additional strings can make fretting
notes and chords on a 12-string guitar
more difficult for some players. A
common remedy for this is to tune
the entire instrument to a lower
relative pitch, such as E flat or D,
which reduces string tension to a
more comfortable level. A capo can
then be used on the first or second fret
to achieve standard pitch. Although
this reduces tension on the neck
and makes the guitar physically
easier to play, it also sacrifices a
small amount of tone projection.
Given the high string tension at
standard pitch, Guild 12-string guitars
should be monitored regularly for neck
warping and the need for truss rod
adjustments. Ignoring these can result
in permanent problems
(see page 16).
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