How to String a 12-String Guitar: A Step-by-Step Guide

Restringing a 12-string guitar may initially seem like a daunting task, especially for those accustomed to the more common 6-string guitars. However, with proper guidance and understanding, it can be a manageable and even rewarding process. Unlike a 6-string guitar, a 12-string guitar pairs up the strings, with the lower four pairs tuned an octave apart and the top two pairs tuned in unison. This unique feature creates the rich, chorus-like sound that 12-string guitars are celebrated for, but it also means that stringing one requires a specific approach.

Care and precision are paramount when stringing a 12-string guitar as the instrument’s headstock accommodates twice the number of tuning pegs. It is crucial to have the correct tools and replacement strings at hand before starting the process. The string gauge, material, and brand can significantly affect the playability and sound of the guitar, making it essential to choose replacements that align with your preferences and the guitar’s specifications. Proper technique in stringing ensures not only ease of tuning but also the longevity of the strings and the health of the guitar’s neck and body.

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Key Takeaways

• Restringing requires a methodical approach due to the unique string pairing on a 12-string guitar.
• Having the correct tools and choosing appropriate strings are crucial to the restringing process.
• Correct stringing and tuning techniques contribute to the guitar’s playability and maintenance.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before restringing a 12-string guitar, ensure that you have the correct string gauges and necessary tools on hand. These are crucial for a smooth restringing process and maintaining your instrument’s sound quality.

Selecting the Correct String Gauges

When choosing strings for a 12-string guitar, one must select pairs that complement each other. The standard setup includes a combination of unison and octave pairs:

• E (1st and 2nd): .010/.010 (unison)
• B (3rd and 4th): .013/.013 (unison)
• G (5th and 6th): .017/.008 (octave)
• D (7th and 8th): .026/.012 (octave)
• A (9th and 10th): .036/.018 (octave)
• E (11th and 12th): .046/.026w (octave)

The thicker gauges (.026-.046) are typically wound, while the thinner ones (.010-.018) are not.

Required Tools for Stringing

To restring a 12-string guitar, the following tools are needed:

• Wire Cutters: For trimming string ends.
• String Winder: Speeds up the winding process.
• Tuner: To accurately tune each string.
• Neck Rest: Provides support and protects the neck during string changes.
• Clean Cloth: For cleaning the fretboard and body.

Stringing a 12-string guitar requires patience and precision, but with the correct tools and string gauges, the process becomes straightforward.

Stringing Fundamentals

Stringing a 12-string guitar correctly is crucial for achieving optimal sound and playability. This section provides a step-by-step approach to ensure each string resonates as intended.

Removing Old Strings

One should loosen and remove the old strings from the tuning pegs, then carefully take them out from the bridge pins. It is advised to change strings one at a time to maintain neck tension. For disposal, coil each string into a circle and secure it to prevent uncoiling.

Securing the First Course of Strings

The first course of strings consists of the heavier gauge strings. One must insert each string into the appropriate hole in the bridge, then onto its respective tuning peg. The string should be pulled taut, but leave enough slack for winding. The string is then wound clockwise on the peg for the bass strings and counterclockwise for the treble strings, ensuring it is wound neatly without overlapping.

Adding the Second Course of Strings

Finally, the second course involves the lighter octave strings for the G, D, A, and E sets, and unison strings for B and high E. These strings are secured in a similar manner to the first course, paying careful attention to winding direction and slack for proper tuning.

Tuning and Stretching Strings

Proper tuning and stretching of strings are essential steps in setting up a 12-string guitar. They ensure stable tuning and optimal sound.

Initial Tuning Procedure

To begin the tuning process, one starts with the six pairs of strings of a 12-string guitar. The paired strings consist of four lower octave pairs (E, A, D, and G) and two unison pairs (B and E). The initial tuning should follow the standard six-string guitar tuning for the main strings (E A D G B E), starting from the lowest pitch (E) to the highest (E). Reference frequencies or a tuner can be used to achieve accurate pitches.

• Standard Tuning for 12-String Guitar (low to high):
  • E (low E, thickest string): 82.41 Hz
  • A: 110 Hz
  • D: 146.83 Hz
  • G: 196 Hz
  • B: 246.94 Hz
  • E (high E, thinnest string): 329.63 Hz

Tuning the octave strings requires carefully adjusting them to exactly one octave above their corresponding main strings, except for the B and high E strings, which are tuned in unison.

Stretching and Re-Tuning

After initial tuning, strings should be stretched to help maintain tuning stability. This is done by gently lifting each string away from the fretboard, then releasing it, careful not to pull too hard. Apply this technique along the entire length of the string. After stretching, re-tuning each string is necessary as stretching can cause them to go slightly flat.

• Steps for Stretching Strings:
  1. Gently lift and release each string at various points along its length.
  2. Retune the string.
  3. Repeat the stretch and retune process as needed until the string maintains its pitch.