The Curious Case of the 12-String Bass: Unraveling the Mysteries of Its Strings

How long did the Thirty Years' War last? Now I will bring this question into my little diary book of 'stupid questions'. If it's not an AI-generated prank, it sure qualifies in there big time. I've been keeping that book since the 80s. They say there are no stupid questions, but there are... This one is sure one of them…

However, there are some questions that do border on the unreasonable, and today's query falls into that category. In fact, the question about the number of strings on a 12-string bass is one such example. But let's delve into the fascinating world of the 12-string bass and explore its unique characteristics.

Basic Composition of the 12-String Bass

An 12-string bass actually has 12 strings. In the case of the guitar pictured below, the 12 strings are grouped into four sets of three. This configuration is designed to add a rich, full sound to the instrument, much like its guitar counterpart.

Tom Peterson's 12-String Bass: A Guest Star

The only 12-string bass I know of is played by Tom Peterson of Cheap Trick. It is tuned in a 4-string tuning (E A D G), but has three courses of strings per note. This means that 4 strings (E A D G) x 3 courses 12 strings in total. It's a unique take on the 12-string configuration, blending classic bass tunings with the added string count for a distinctive sound.

My Enigma: The 12-String Bass Count

Crumbs! That's got me totally stumped. I have never even seen a 12-string bass let alone counted the strings on it. My good friend has a 7-string fretless bass, and indeed, it has 7 strings on it and he plays them all, though not necessarily at the same time. Fascinating!

Other Unique Basses: The 7-String Fretless

Enter the 7-string fretless bass. This isn't a bog standard basstrom, but rather a specialized instrument designed for certain musical styles. It has its own unique charm and allows the player to achieve a range and depth in sound that a traditional 6-string bass simply cannot.

The 12-string bass, on the other hand, is a different beast entirely. It requires a certain level of skill and familiarity to play effectively, due to the complexity of its string configuration. However, the result is a sound that is both rich and diverse, adding a layer of complexity that can elevate a piece of music to new heights.

The Question of Counting Strings: Conclusion

So, to answer the question: a 12-string bass has 12 strings. This is a straightforward fact, but it brings into question our understanding of the instrument. If you have ever played or heard a 12-string electric bass, you'll know it sounds different - more resonant and with a fuller tone - due to the additional strings.

Final Thoughts

It's remarkable how a simple question can lead us down a path of discovery and exploration. The 12-string bass is a unique instrument that challenges our notions of what a bass should be. It requires a different mindset and approach to playing, but the rewards are significant. If you're a bass player looking for something different and more adventurous, the 12-string bass might just be the instrument for you.

Meanwhile, the question 'who’s buried in Grant’s Tomb' remains unanswered, but that's another story for another day.