What is a 12-String Guitar? Unveiling the Mighty 12-String

Introduction to the 12-String Guitar

When it comes to the 12-string guitar, there are two spellings: 12-string and twelvestring. However, the term that most music enthusiasts recognize is simply 12-string guitar. This article will delve into what a 12-string guitar is, its unique features, and its distinct tuning.

What Exactly is a 12-String Guitar?

The 12-string guitar is a variation of the standard six-string guitar that features an additional six strings, doubling the low strings and introducing a unique, rich tonal quality. The term 12-fret or 12-fret guitar refers to the position where the neck meets the body, which is slightly shorter than the standard 14-fret neck. A 12-fret position on the neck not only affects the sound produced by the guitar, but also its overall tonal characteristics.

Comparing 12-Fret and 14-Fret Neck

On a Taylor steel-string model, the neck meets the body at the 14th fret, which is two frets higher than a 12-fret neck. This difference in neck positioning results in the bridge being placed further from the soundhole on a 12-fret guitar. This placement impacts the sound by giving the guitar a warmer, more resonant tone, as the top of the guitar is more flexible near the bridge. This characteristic enhances the guitar's sustain but contributes to a less punchy sound.

The Distinct Tuning of the 12-String Guitar

Standard Tuning and Its Components

The tuning of a 12-string guitar is a unique feature that distinguishes it from a standard six-string guitar. The lowest four strings (E, A, D, G) are tuned in octaves, while the strings for the higher octaves (B, E) are tuned in unison. There is a notable difference in string gauge, with the lower octave strings being lighter in gauge. However, it is worth noting that not all strains adhere strictly to this standard, and some players choose to use the same gauge strings for the high and low octaves, such as a 10 gauge and 12 gauge for the high E string.

Alterations in Tuning

Many guitarists, especially acoustic players, choose to lower the tuning of their 12-string guitars by a half or whole tone, particularly on older Martin models. Over time, the tension caused by the additional strings can affect the intonation and stability of the neck, leading to issues that require expensive repairs.

The Proposal for a Name: Duodecimola

While the term 12-string guitar is generally accepted, one user suggests a unique name for this instrument: duodecimola. This term, which user has coined recently, is derived from the Latin word duodecim, meaning twelve. The user feels that this name should be recognized and universally acknowledged in musical lexicon as the most fitting pseudonym for a 12-string guitar. It's a creative and imaginative approach to naming a musical instrument that reflects its distinctive nature.