Exploring the Unique Sound of the 12-String Guitar: Why and How to Use It

When it comes to the 12-string guitar, many musicians, especially those with a deeper appreciation for the sound of the instrument, often wonder why they prefer it over the more commonly used 6-string guitar. The 12-string guitar, with its characteristic fullness and rich, ringing tone, offers a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from its six-string cousin. In this article, we will delve into why the 12-string guitar is such a preferred choice and how to effectively incorporate it into your playing arsenal.

The Sound of a 12-String Guitar

When you strum or pick a 12-string guitar, the sound is a result of an additional six strings that are tuned to double the standard six-string sets. This doubles the fundamental and harmonic frequencies, creating a richer, fuller sound than a 6-string guitar. The result is a warm, resonant tone that is often described as voicings of the notes, giving the guitar a unique warmth and roundness that is hard to replicate with a 6-string.

Why I Prefer the 12-String Guitar

Istarted with classical guitar but was strongly influenced by the 12-string sound when I got my first Gibson in 1971. This guitar was a big part of my inspiration, especially through the folk and country music I heard in the “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” era. The 12-string guitar has a fuller, richer tone that some songs simply require. For instance, the finger-picking and rhythm of certain songs can be better achieved with a 12-string.

How to Use Both 6-String and 12-String Guitars

While I don't prefer one over the other, I see each as a tool in my arsenal for achieving a specific sound or dynamic. When performing a solo gig or a guest session, I may choose to use a 12-string or a 6-string depending on the song and the overall sound I am aiming for. Both guitars serve different purposes, and you can indeed achieve a similar sound with just one or two courses of a 12-string, but it may sound a bit busy.

Unique Sound of a 12-String Guitar

There are certain sounds that just work better on a 12-string guitar. Some of the best examples of this can be found in the work of folk and country musicians. Many songs simply sound more complete or have a certain magic when played on a 12-string guitar. However, it's important to note that most songs can be played beautifully on a 6-string guitar as well. It all depends on the song and the overall sound you want to achieve.

Playing the 12-String Guitar Custom Tuning

Playing both 12-string and 6-string guitars is similar, but the 12-string can add a different dynamic to your playing. For instance, when tuning a 12-string guitar down a tone, to D-D, it can provide a deeper, more resonant sound. Additionally, there is a technique known as Nashville tuning, which involves using the higher strings from a 12-string set on a 6-string guitar. Here is how you can achieve it:

Take your 6-string guitar and a set of strings intended for a 12-string guitar. Replace the 3rd (E), 2nd (A), 1st (D), and G strings on your 6-string guitar with the corresponding higher strings from your 12-string set. Use a normal set of strings for the B and high E strings.

This results in a guitar that produces a much more treble-rich sound. When you play this with a normally tuned guitar or record them separately, you get a unique and rich sound. The advantage of this method is that you can apply different effects to each guitar, allowing for more dynamic and interesting playing.

Remember, the 12-string guitar is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is a tool to be used strategically to achieve the desired sound. Most songs can be played beautifully on a 6-string guitar, but there are certain instances where the 12-string guitar, with its unique sound, brings a special element to the music.

Conclusion

The 12-string guitar is a wonderful instrument that offers a unique and rich sound that can elevate certain songs. Whether you are a seasoned musician or just beginning, incorporating a 12-string guitar into your playing can add a new dimension to your sound. Exploring the unique sound of the 12-string guitar can enrich your musical experience and help you produce more versatile and nuanced music.