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best 12 string guitar

Evan Whitaker
  Sep 24, 2023 8:25 PM

What could be more beautiful than an acoustic guitar's luscious tone? What about a two-acoustic guitar acoustic guitar? The 12 string guitar is a little more intricate than that, but that is the core concept. Some songs sound better when played on a 12 string guitar because they are more nuanced and sophisticated. Switching from a 6 string guitar to a 12 string guitar, on the other hand, may take some time and patience. But don't be concerned. If you think it's time to upgrade from a conventional 6 string guitar, getting one of the best 12 string guitars is a must.


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Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Buying guide

How did you choose these best 12 string guitars? We conducted our research based on several factors, including quality, cost, popularity, and reputation. You'll purchase a 12 string guitar that strikes a balance between all of these factors.
Wider Neck
The neck width (or nut width, since it's measured at the nut) must be enlarged to accommodate the extra strings — the neck width is often closer to that of a classical guitar. The fretboard width is usually different from a standard guitar, although the neck contour and length are usually the same.
The strings, whether electric or acoustic, play an important role in the sound of a 12 string guitar. When it comes to buying strings for your 12 string guitar, the theory is similar to that of any other normal or extended range guitar. On a 12 string set, the additional octave strings are constructed from the same materials and to the same specifications as the standard 6 strings with which they are coupled.
Alloy
Because the fact that 12 string guitars are available in both electric and acoustic versions, strings for both kinds are available. Acoustic strings are manufactured with certain metals because their sound profiles are tailored to the instrument, but they lack the magnetic qualities needed to sound nice on an electric guitar. Similarly, electric guitar strings are built to interact with magnetic fields, and while nothing is prohibiting nothing prohibiting you from using them on an acoustic guitar, they'll sound thin and twangy.
Electric Guitar Alloys
- The most popular electric guitar string alloy is nickel-plated plated steel, which is bright and clear.
- Pure steel has a terrific pickup response, a bell-like clarity, and a lot of resonance.
- Pure nickel – warm and long-lasting.
Acoustic Guitar Alloys
- The most popular acoustic guitar string alloy is 80/20 bronze, which is bright and sonorous but quickly dulls.
- Phosphor bronze is warmer than 80/20 bronze, has exceptional clarity, and has a longer lifespan because of the presence of phosphor.
- Aluminum bronze strings are some of the brightest acoustic strings, however, they lack depth.
Gauge
The gauge of a string refers to its breadth or thickness. String shoppers for 12 string guitars are looking for the same numbers as they would for a conventional 6 string.
The gauge will have a large effect on overall comfort on 12 string guitars. The strings have a lot of tension, and while you won't be doing complete step bends, the added pressure to depress notes can cause finger fatigue if you choose an excessive gauge for your ability and experience level.
Expect your fingers to hurt for quite some time, as it is a bit hard to fret a 12 string acoustic guitar. Having the right feel and getting used are some of the things you must achieve when playing one of the best 12 string acoustic guitars.
Good luck! 
 


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