12 String Guitar Guide Is It Right for You
A 12 string guitar has six pairs of strings instead of six singles. Strummed, it sounds like two guitars at once, a shimmer you hear on records from the Byrds to Tom Petty to modern worship music. It is a wonderful second guitar and a hard first one. Here is what to know before you buy.
How it is strung
The two highest pairs are tuned in unison. The four lower pairs have one normal string and one thin string an octave higher. That octave string is what creates the chorus effect. You fret each pair as one string, so every chord shape you already know works.
Why it is harder
- Tension. Twelve strings pull nearly twice as hard on the neck and your fingers. Light gauge sets are standard for a reason.
- Fretting. Pressing two strings cleanly with one fingertip takes a few weeks of callus building.
- Tuning. Twelve strings take twice as long to tune and drift more. A clip on tuner is not optional.
- Bends. Not really a thing. The 12 string is a rhythm and fingerstyle instrument.
Standard pitch or down a step
Most modern 12 strings with a truss rod handle standard tuning in light gauge. Many players still tune the whole guitar down a whole step for an easier feel and a darker sound, then capo at the second fret to play in standard. Our capo guide covers that trick.
Acoustic electric or plain
Most 12 strings sold today have a pickup because the instrument is so often used on stage for a texture part. A model with a preamp and a built in tuner solves the tuning problem on stage. Read acoustic electric guitars explained if you are unsure you need it.
Who should buy one
Someone who already plays a six string comfortably and wants a new sound for strumming, songwriting or church. It is not a first guitar. For a first acoustic read how to choose your first acoustic guitar.
Strings and setup
Buy 12 string sets, not two 6 string sets. Light gauge, 10 to 47, is right for most guitars. A 12 string needs a careful setup more than any other acoustic because the string pull is so high. Every one we ship goes across the bench first.
Every instrument we ship is set up by hand on our bench in Athens, Tennessee first. Read what a guitar setup is to see what that covers. Browse all acoustic guitars. Questions? Call the shop at (423) 462-1894 and a real person will help you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 12 string guitar good for beginners?
No. The tension and the double strings make it hard to fret cleanly. Learn on a six string first.
How is a 12 string guitar tuned?
Same as a six string. The two high pairs are in unison and the four low pairs have one string an octave up.
Do I need special strings for a 12 string?
Yes. Buy a 12 string set in light gauge. It includes the thin octave strings.
Can you play chords on a 12 string the same way?
Yes. Every chord shape works. You press each pair of strings as one.
