|
|
Joined:
May 2002
Posts: 1445
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada | Hi Guys, I would like to experiment with down-tuning my Bluebird 12-string electric by a full tone. I think it would sound killer.
Question is, has anyone tried this with a 12-string electric so as to recommend against any potential problems with this? Will the bridge be able to be adjusted enough to intonate it properly?
Also, I would like to increase the string gauge enough to get a similar 'feel' and tension as when it is tuned to 440. Would I have to change the nut to accommodate the heavier string gauge? I was thinking I would make up a custom set of electric strings using acoustic 12-string diameters as a guide as they are gauged a fair bit heavier than electric sets.
Any tips on this change would be appreciated!
Wayne |
|
| |
|
Joined:
March 2002
Posts: 15680
Location: SoCal | Wayne:
I'm not familiar with somebody tuning a solid body 12 string down, but with an acoustic 12 string, you should be able to tune down to a C with no problems. I'd suggest going to a medium gauge set of strings, but I suspect that the results would be incredible. Let us know how it goes. |
|
| |
|
Joined:
December 2001
Posts: 10583
Location: NJ | paul is right the heavier the strings the better your results. problem is finding heavy gauge electric 12 strings. |
|
| |
|
Joined:
March 2002
Posts: 873
Location: puerto vallarta, mexico | hi wayne, paul t. turned us on to "string this" in an earlier post. find it with search at the top of this page. they sell martin strings in bulk and can put together custom sets. i recently had them put together a dozen of each 12 string electric and 12 string acoustic. also got 72 sets of phosphor bronze for 6 string. they also have some accessories. all at the BEST price i've found. 1.88 a set for the pb6's.
i tried to e mail you in response to yours and it was returned twice as undeliverable. maybe my mexican isp no comprende canadian. |
|
| |
|
Joined:
February 2002
Posts: 5750
Location: Scotland | If you can't find ready made electric 12-string sets in heavier guages just buy a set starting with 10's or 9's & bin the 2 first strings and the octave 3rd string. String the guitar starting with the 2nd strings & buy individual strings to replace the missing ones. Sorry if that sounds confusing, but it works.
Paul
[ September 17, 2002: Message edited by: Paul Templeman ] |
|
| |
|
Joined:
May 2002
Posts: 1445
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada | Hi Paul, I just emailed "String This" asking for a custom set with the following gauges:
12/12/16/16/25/10/32/14/42/17/54/30
If they cannot do this, what you suggest is the next best logical thing.
Hey Russ, I just sent you an email with my alternate address but I will post it here as well...if my board mates will kindly overlook the Fender content... [email]teleman63@hotmail.com[/email]
Thanks for the suggestions guys, I'll post whatever "String This" has to say in case anyone else wants to try this.
Wayne |
|
| |
|
Joined:
March 2002
Posts: 873
Location: puerto vallarta, mexico | the telecaster is an icon, and even though it isn't my choice i won't become like the members of another site that are blind sheep who bad mouth anything the flock doesn't like. i'll check my e mail. |
|
| |
|
Joined:
February 2002
Posts: 5750
Location: Scotland | Wayne, those gauges are fine & just about what I use on my Deacon 12 at concert pitch, if you want to tune lower you could go up to a 13 set without a problem. I assume your 'Bird has the same graphite reinforced neck as a Deacon 12.
Paul |
|
| |
|
Joined:
January 2002
Posts: 14127
Location: 6 String Ranch | Same neck. shouldn't be a problem. |
|
| |
|
Joined:
December 2001
Posts: 10583
Location: NJ | Does this mean I have to throw out my 56 tele? |
|
| |
|
Joined:
February 2002
Posts: 5750
Location: Scotland | Yes, throw it over here.
Paul |
|
| |
|
Joined:
May 2002
Posts: 1445
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada | Not throwing out my '53 Esquire just yet either...although I might trade it for some interesting Ovations!
Wayne |
|
| |
|
Joined:
May 2002
Posts: 1445
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada | Paul T, I think I will take your advise and start with a regular 12-string pack...but where are you getting your .54 nickles? I don't see them listed on the 'string this' webpage.
Wayne |
|
| |
|
Joined:
December 2001
Posts: 10583
Location: NJ | Wayne
check my website and we can talk.
btw NO ONE GETS MY TELE |
|
| |
Down-tuning 12-string Electric
