A 12-string acoustic guitar creates a rich, resonant, and harmonically complex sound that distinguishes it from its 6-string counterpart. However, tuning a 12-string guitar can be intimidating, especially for beginners.
This detailed guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that your 12-string guitar sounds incredible every time you play.
What Makes a 12-String Guitar Unique?
A 12-string guitar has six pairs of strings, also called courses, rather than six single strings like a standard acoustic guitar. Each course typically consists of:
- The standard string from a 6-string guitar.
- A thinner string tuned to a higher octave or the same pitch.
This doubling gives the guitar its signature chorus-like sound, making it ideal for genres like folk, rock, and blues.
Standard Tuning for a 12-String Acoustic Guitar
The standard tuning for a 12-string guitar is similar to a 6-string guitar, with each pair of strings tuned together. Here’s how the strings are tuned from the thickest (low E) to the thinnest (high E):
- E – Low E (6th course): The first string is tuned to low E, and its paired string is tuned to the same pitch or one octave higher.
- A – Fifth course: The first string is tuned to A, and the paired string is one octave higher.
- D – Fourth course: The first string is tuned to D, and the paired string is one octave higher.
- G – Third course: The first string is tuned to G, and the paired string is one octave higher.
- B – Second course: Both strings in this pair are tuned to the same pitch (B).
- E – First course: Both strings in this pair are tuned to the same pitch (high E).
Mnemonic to Remember Tuning Order
Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie – use the same mnemonic as for a 6-string guitar!
Tools You Need to Tune a 12-String Acoustic Guitar
Tuning a 12-string guitar requires precision. Here are the tools to make the process easier:
- Digital or Clip-On Tuner: A must-have for accurate tuning. Many tuners are designed for 12-string guitars.
- Tuning App: Apps like GuitarTuna or Fender Tune can help you tune quickly and efficiently.
- Reference Pitch: A keyboard, pitch pipe, or tuning fork can serve as a reference for ear tuning.
How to Tune a 12-String Acoustic Guitar: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Tune the Low E Course (6th Pair)
- Pluck the thicker low E string and tune it to E using your tuner.
- Pluck the thinner string in the same pair and tune it to E, but an octave higher.
Step 2: Tune the A Course (5th Pair)
- Follow the same process for the 5th course.
- Tune the thicker string to A, and the thinner paired string to A an octave higher.
Step 3: Tune the D Course (4th Pair)
- For the 4th course, tune the thicker string to D and the thinner string to D an octave higher.
Step 4: Tune the G Course (3rd Pair)
- For the 3rd course, tune the thicker string to G and the thinner string to G an octave higher.
Step 5: Tune the B Course (2nd Pair)
- The 2nd course is tuned to B, with both strings in this pair tuned to the same pitch.
Step 6: Tune the High E Course (1st Pair)
- The 1st course is tuned to E, with both strings in this pair tuned to the same pitch.
Tips for Tuning a 12-String Guitar
- Tune Down to Avoid String Breakage: Due to the additional tension on the neck, consider tuning your 12-string guitar a half-step or full step down from standard tuning (e.g., Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb). This reduces the strain on the instrument and makes it easier to play.
- Stretch New Strings: If you’ve recently replaced the strings, stretch them gently to stabilize the tuning.
- Use a Chromatic Tuner: Chromatic tuners are better suited for tuning the octave strings accurately.
- Take Your Time: Tuning 12 strings can feel overwhelming at first, but patience is key to achieving the perfect sound.
Alternate Tunings for a 12-String Guitar
Many players experiment with alternate tunings to unlock the full potential of their 12-string guitar. Here are a few popular ones:
1. Drop D
- Lower the low E course to D, keeping the other strings in standard tuning.
- Great for songs with a deeper bass.
2. Open G
- D-G-D-G-B-D (for 6-string pairs).
- Popular for slide guitar and blues styles.
3. DADGAD
- D-A-D-G-A-D (for 6-string pairs).
- Provides a Celtic and droning sound.
Why Does a 12-String Guitar Go Out of Tune Quickly?
12-string guitars are more prone to tuning instability because:
- String Tension: Doubling the strings increases tension, making them more sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.
- String Stretching: New strings take longer to stabilize.
- Frequent Use: Heavy playing can knock the strings out of tune faster.
How to Prevent Tuning Issues
- Store your guitar in a temperature-controlled environment.
- Replace old strings regularly.
- Use a high-quality tuner for accuracy.
FAQs About Tuning a 12-String Acoustic Guitar
Can I Tune a 12-String Guitar Like a 6-String Guitar?
Yes, you can use the same standard tuning notes, but remember to tune the thinner strings to higher octaves for the first four courses.
What Tuning is Best for Beginners?
Standard tuning or tuning down by a half step (Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb) is ideal for beginners as it reduces tension and makes the guitar easier to play.
How Often Should I Tune My 12-String Guitar?
Tune your guitar before every playing session, as 12-string guitars tend to go out of tune more often due to higher tension.
Do I Need a Special Tuner for a 12-String Guitar?
Not necessarily. A standard chromatic tuner works well, but tuners designed for 12-string guitars can make the process more efficient.
Final Thoughts
Tuning a 12-string acoustic guitar may take a little extra time and effort, but the lush, full-bodied sound it produces is well worth it. Whether you’re playing in standard tuning or experimenting with alternate tunings, practice makes perfect.
Remember to tune regularly, take good care of your guitar, and enjoy the beautiful music that only a 12-string guitar can deliver. Happy strumming!