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Post subject: A question for string gauge
Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2008 2:49 pm
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Roadie
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SRV used 13s and he tuned his guitar a half step down. If I put 11s or 12s, can I still keep my guitar in standard tuning? And one more question, if I switch from 9s to 11s do I have to make any adjustments. Sorry if it's a stupid question, I always have used 9 gauge strings.

Thanks! :)


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Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2008 3:31 pm
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You can play 13s in standard tuning if you want...that's what a lot of acoustics are.

Going from 9s to 11s or 12s will be quite the adjustment. I would recomendworking your way up to that. You will probably need to make some adjusments to your axe too.

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Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2008 3:33 pm
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You'll have to do a setup to accomodate the new gauge, but that's just standard.

You don't have to tune differently with a different gauge... This isn't exactly scientific, but playing 13s down a half-step feels the same as playing 12s in standard tuning. Heavier strings require more tension to create the same pitch.

That's why my Gibson acoustic, with ladder bracing, is supposed to use lighter gauge strings than other guitars. The lighter gauge puts less tension on the weaker top.


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Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2008 4:59 pm
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I just switched from 9's to 10's and I have to say I love it. The guitar just "feels" better.


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Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2008 6:54 pm
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mainburner wrote:
I just switched from 9's to 10's and I have to say I love it. The guitar just "feels" better.

I have to agree!
I am trying to work my up to maybe 12's or 13's but i may need to get the nut filed down or whatever...

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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 8:01 am
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You're setup will definately have to be changed if you go up to 11's or 12's. Yeah you can still play in standard tuning, string guage has nothing to do with that. The half step down makes it a bit easier to bend notes and or course it drops your tone some.

Going from 9's to 12's is gonna feel very awkward at first. Don't get discouraged.

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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 9:12 am
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The tension from heavier guage strings pulls the bridge up a bit so you`ll have to have it reset. Mine had 11`s on it and the bridge had to be lowered and the springs adjusted. I also tuned it a half step down and I like the way it sounds now.

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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 10:26 am
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Alright thanks everyone for the replies! :D


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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 10:55 am
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As said by others your guitar will need a complete setup.

Personally I do not recommend jumping from 9's to 12's. Work your way up. You will need to build up some strength in your hand.



BTW: SRV used 15's for quite a few years before dropping down to 13's.

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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 11:21 am
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'Tend to keep 11s on electrics, some each flatwound and roundwound.

13s on acoustics.


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Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2008 2:01 pm
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CAFeathers wrote:
As said by others your guitar will need a complete setup.

Personally I do not recommend jumping from 9's to 12's. Work your way up. You will need to build up some strength in your hand.



BTW: SRV used 15's for quite a few years before dropping down to 13's.


Well I'm going to 11's. I've played my friend's guitar that had 12's and I liked them. Also with my other guitar it came set with 10s (LP copy). I feel like I need some thicker strings. Thanks. :)


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