A Vast Melodic Range
Tapping into the tonal ranges of a 12-string guitar is a journey full of melodic harmonies. A 12-string guitar is a great choice for experienced players who are transitioning from a common six-string guitar. But after buying one, many players might get intimidated about how to restring a 12-string guitar.
The process is different from a common 6-string guitar. The following lists highlight prominent differences between a six and twelve-string guitar:
String Naming Arrangement
The arrangement of the strings on a 12-stringer guitar is different. This is because the way the strings are arranged is unique so that the guitar can be played similar to the sound of a full-instrument band. It is because the strings are the same notes tuned at different frequencies or octaves.
A string set for a 12-string guitar. The naming arrangement from top to bottom for the 12 string guitar is as follows:
- E
- e
- A
- a
- D
- d
- G
- g
- b
- b
- e
- e
This might seem daunting but tuning and learning how to restring a 12-string guitar is fairly simple.
Tuning Pegs
The tuning pegs on a twelve-string guitar are also greater in number as compared to a regular six-stringer guitar.
However, the position of the tuning pegs on a twelve-string guitar is closer than on other guitars which commonly have only six strings. They are twelve in number and evenly spaced.
Difference of Bridge & Nut
A twelve-string guitar bridge is different than a six-string guitar bridge. The position of holes that hold the strings are placed one behind the other in congruency at a slight angle.
This slight deviation of the hole placement allows all of the twelve strings to be placed on the neck in a playable manner, perfectly.
Restringing a 12 Stringer Guitar
If you have been playing your 12-stringer guitar for quite some time now, the tone and color of the strings might be worn out. They do not sound bright and full of sound.
In this case, buying a new 12-string pack for your guitar is the next essential step. However, stringing a 12-string guitar with a new strings pack involves some minor technicalities. That is why it is essential to know how to restring a 12-string guitar.
Loosening the Strings
The first step is to loosen the strings. This can be easily done by rotating the tuning peg keys clockwise until the tension in the string subsides.
Repeat this process for all strings until their respective tension is loosened. Once loosened, the string heads or capstan can be pulled out of the tuning peg holes easily.
This will detach the strings from the head part of the twelve-string guitar.
Opening the Bridge Holes
The second step is to open the bridge holes secured by latches. These latches hold in place the string tails. These latches can be pulled outward using a guitar plier.
Once all holes are open, the strings can be fully taken off of the twelve stringer guitar.
Placing the String Tails
The third step may seem daunting but this guide makes it easier for a beginner to follow.
The bridge holes are 12 in number, divided into two rows. The simplest rule of thumb is to place the thinner strings in the row of holes ahead of the other row, one by one. Once a string tail is placed inside the hole, it can be secured with a bridge pin.
The holes’ row behind contains the thicker strings which are also consequently secured with bridge pins.
Tuning a 12 String Guitar
Once all twelve strings have been secured with bridge pins, you can continue to stretch them across the fretboard, passing the string heads into the tuning pegs.
The fourth step is pretty straightforward. The tuning pegs are turned anti-clockwise to tune each string to standard notes. The following notes arrangement is followed:
- E
- e
- A
- a
- D
- d
- G
- g
- b
- b
- e
- e
It should always be noted that the string names in capital letters are the thicker ones which are tuned at a lower octave of the same note.
The lower case string names are tuned at a higher octave with the last four strings tuned in unison or at the same octave – and that’s how to restring a 12-string guitar.
Summary
A 12-string guitar is a majestic assembly of melodic notes arranged in octaves and higher tunes. It resonates with warmth, fullness, and a range of musical fidelity. Restringing a 12 stringer guitar is similar to restringing a 6-string guitar but with a unique string arrangement. The process is straightforward and yields a vibrant range of melodic tunes.
