Imagine a sound so rich and full, it feels like two guitars are playing at once. That’s the magic of a 12-string guitar! Have you ever heard that beautiful, shimmering sound and wondered how it’s made? Maybe you’ve even dreamed of creating that sound yourself.
But then, the reality hits. Looking at all the different 12-string guitars can feel overwhelming. Which one is the best for you? How do you know if it will sound good or be easy to play? It’s easy to feel a little lost when you’re trying to pick the perfect instrument.
Don’t worry! This post is here to help you. We’re going to explore what makes 12-string guitars so special. You’ll learn about different types, what to look for, and even some famous players who make them sing. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about finding the 12-string guitar that’s just right for your musical journey.
Our Top 5 12 String Guitarists Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 12 String Guitarists Detailed Reviews
1. First 50 Songs You Should Play on 12-String Guitar
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to make some beautiful music with a 12-string guitar? This book, “First 50 Songs You Should Play on 12-String Guitar,” is your ultimate guide. It’s packed with 50 awesome songs that beginners can learn. You’ll find chords, tabs, and lyrics for each song. Plus, you can learn to play hits like “Free Fallin’,” “Hotel California,” and “Wish You Were Here.” This book is made for acoustic guitar players who want to play the 12-string.
What We Like:
- It has 50 popular songs perfect for beginners.
- You get chords, tabs, and lyrics for easy learning.
- It includes famous songs like “Free Fallin'” and “Hotel California.”
- The book is 122 pages long, giving you plenty of music to practice.
- It’s specifically designed for the 12-string guitar.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some very complex songs might be simplified, which could frustrate advanced players.
- The book doesn’t include audio tracks to hear how the songs should sound.
This book is a fantastic resource for anyone starting out on a 12-string. It makes learning fun and rewarding.
2. Hal Leonard 12-String Guitar Method – Learn Acoustic and Electric Guitar
Rating: 9.2/10
The Hal Leonard 12-String Guitar Method book is your all-in-one guide to mastering the 12-string guitar, whether you play acoustic or electric. This 128-page book covers everything a beginner or intermediate player needs. You’ll learn essential chords, fingerpicking techniques, and how to keep your guitar in tune. It even includes 50 song excerpts to practice with. Plus, you get online audio tracks to help you hear how everything should sound.
What We Like:
- Comprehensive coverage for both acoustic and electric 12-string guitars.
- Clear explanations of chords and fingerpicking make learning easy.
- Includes 50 song excerpts, offering plenty of practice material.
- Online audio tracks are a fantastic tool for listening and learning.
- Great for beginners and those looking to improve their skills.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some very advanced techniques might not be covered in great detail.
- The book is primarily text and diagrams; more video content could be helpful for some learners.
This method book provides a solid foundation for any 12-string guitarist. It’s a valuable resource for anyone eager to explore the rich sound of this unique instrument.
3. D’Addario Acoustic Guitar Strings
Rating: 8.8/10
Unleash a richer sound from your 12-string guitar with the D’Addario EJ38 Phosphor Bronze Light Gauge Acoustic Strings. This set is designed to give your instrument a warm and balanced tone that works well for any kind of music. D’Addario has been making these popular strings for a long time, and they are known for their great quality.
What We Like:
- They sound warm and balanced, perfect for any music style.
- The strings are made to last and resist rust.
- You can earn reward points for buying them.
- They are made right here in the USA.
- The light gauge (10-47) is easy to play, especially for beginners or those who like a softer touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- Being a 12-string set, they might be a bit more challenging to install than a standard 6-string set for someone completely new to string changes.
- While they offer great value, some players might prefer a slightly heavier gauge for more volume or a different tonal character.
If you want your 12-string guitar to sing with a beautiful, full sound, this set is an excellent choice. Experience the classic D’Addario tone and enjoy playing your favorite songs.
4. Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Light Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Rating: 8.6/10
Unleash a symphony of sound with the Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Light Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. These strings are designed to give your 12-string guitar a full, vibrant voice. They offer a warm and rich tone that really projects, making your music sound clear and powerful. The light gauge is easy to play, so you can strum and pick for hours without getting tired.
What We Like:
- Produces a warm, rich sound that fills the room.
- Excellent projection means your music cuts through.
- Clarity in each note makes your playing shine.
- The 12-string light gauge is comfortable for playing.
- Element Shield Packaging keeps strings fresh and ready.
- Made with high-quality materials in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some players might prefer a heavier gauge for a different feel.
- While durable, 12-string sets can be more involved to change than 6-string sets.
These Ernie Ball Earthwood strings are a fantastic choice for any 12-string player seeking a beautiful, resonant sound. They deliver quality and performance that you can hear and feel.
5. Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to rock with Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings! These strings are a favorite among legendary guitarists like Slash and Jimmy Page. If you love to tune your guitar lower for a heavier sound, the 12-56 gauge is just right for you. They give you a bright and balanced tone that sounds great. Plus, Ernie Ball makes them in California, USA, using top-notch materials.
What We Like:
- Awesome for lower tunings: The 12-56 gauge is perfect for achieving that deep, powerful sound.
- Trusted by the pros: Played by guitar heroes worldwide.
- Long-lasting freshness: The special packaging keeps your strings sounding new for a long time.
- Great tone: You get a bright and balanced sound that really sings.
- High-quality construction: Made with the best materials for reliable performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Heavier gauge might take some getting used to for beginners.
- Some players might prefer even thicker strings for extreme drop tunings.
These Ernie Ball strings offer a fantastic combination of tone, durability, and playability, especially for players who explore different tunings. They are a solid choice for any serious guitarist.
Choosing Your First (or Next!) 12-String Guitar: A Complete Guide
So, you’re thinking about diving into the wonderful world of 12-string guitars! That’s fantastic. These instruments offer a rich, shimmering sound that can make any song sound fuller and more majestic. But with so many options, where do you begin? This guide will help you pick the perfect 12-string for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you start shopping, keep these important features in mind.
Body Shape and Size
- Dreadnought: This is the most common shape. It’s big and loud, perfect for strumming big chords. It has a deep sound.
- Concert/Orchestra Model (OM): These are a bit smaller than dreadnoughts. They are easier to hold and play for longer. They offer a more balanced sound, good for fingerpicking too.
- Jumbo: These are the biggest guitars. They are very loud and have a lot of bass. They are great for players who want the loudest possible sound.
Neck Profile
- The neck is the long part of the guitar you hold. 12-string necks are usually wider than 6-string necks. This is because there are more strings!
- Some necks are thicker, while others are thinner. A thinner neck might feel more comfortable if you have smaller hands.
Electronics
- Some 12-string guitars have built-in microphones (pickups). These let you plug your guitar into an amplifier or sound system.
- If you plan to play on stage or record, look for a guitar with good electronics.
2. Important Materials
The wood used to build a guitar greatly affects its sound.
Tonewoods
- Spruce Top: This is a very popular choice for the top (the front part) of the guitar. It makes the guitar sound bright and clear.
- Mahogany Back and Sides: Mahogany gives the guitar a warm, woody sound. It’s good for many music styles.
- Rosewood Back and Sides: Rosewood adds a rich, complex tone with more bass and treble. It can make the guitar sound very full.
- Maple Back and Sides: Maple offers a brighter, more focused sound. It helps the guitar cut through a mix.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one 12-string sound amazing and another just okay?
Construction Quality
- Solid Wood vs. Laminated Wood: Guitars made with solid wood (the whole piece of wood) generally sound better and age well. Laminated wood (layers of wood glued together) is less expensive but can sound a bit flatter.
- Bracing: This is the internal support structure inside the guitar. Good bracing helps the top vibrate freely, making the guitar louder and more resonant.
Playability
- Action: This is how high the strings are off the fretboard. Low action makes it easier to press down the strings. High action can make playing tiring, especially on a 12-string.
- Nut Width: The nut is the small piece at the top of the neck where the strings rest. A wider nut is common on 12-strings. Make sure it feels comfortable for your fretting hand.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your 12-string? Think about this when you choose.
- For Strumming: If you love playing big, open chords that ring out, a dreadnought body with a spruce top is a great choice. It will give you that classic, full 12-string sound.
- For Fingerpicking: If you prefer picking individual notes and creating intricate melodies, an OM or concert-sized guitar might be better. They offer more control and a clearer tone for delicate playing.
- For Recording: A 12-string can add incredible depth to recordings. If you plan to record, consider a guitar with a good pickup system so you can easily capture its sound.
- For Live Performance: Amplification is key for live shows. Look for guitars with reliable electronics. A jumbo body can give you a lot of volume even without plugging in.
FAQ for 12-String Guitarists
Q: Are 12-string guitars harder to play than 6-string guitars?
A: Yes, they can be. They have twice as many strings, so the neck is wider. The strings are also often tuned down a step or two, which makes them a bit tighter. But with practice, many players find them very rewarding.
Q: What kind of strings do I need for a 12-string guitar?
A: You need special 12-string sets. They have six courses of strings, with two strings in each course. These are tuned differently than a standard 6-string set.
Q: How do I tune a 12-string guitar?
A: The standard tuning is E-A-D-G-B-E, just like a 6-string. However, the lower six strings are paired with a higher octave string, and the higher four strings are paired with a unison string. For example, the low E string is paired with another E string, but one is an octave higher. This creates that signature shimmering sound.
Q: Can I play barre chords on a 12-string?
A: Yes, you can. Barre chords might feel a little more challenging at first because you are pressing down more strings. However, many players find ways to adjust their technique.
Q: What are the benefits of playing a 12-string?
A: The biggest benefit is the sound. It’s much richer and fuller than a 6-string. It adds a beautiful chorus-like effect to your music. It’s great for folk, rock, and country music.
Q: Do 12-string guitars need special care?
A: They need the same care as any acoustic guitar. Keep it in a case when not playing. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. The extra tension from the strings can put more stress on the neck, so a good setup is important.
Q: What is the difference between a 12-string acoustic and a 12-string electric guitar?
A: An acoustic 12-string produces its sound from the vibrating body of the guitar. An electric 12-string needs to be plugged into an amplifier to be heard. Electric 12-strings often have a slimmer neck profile.
Q: What are some famous songs played on a 12-string guitar?
A: Many! Think of “Hotel California” by The Eagles, “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd, and “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & the Papas.
Q: Can I convert a 6-string guitar into a 12-string?
A: No, you cannot easily convert a 6-string into a 12-string. The guitar’s structure, especially the neck and bracing, is not designed for the extra tension of 12 strings.
Q: Where should I buy a 12-string guitar?
A: You can buy them at local music stores or online retailers. Trying out a guitar in person is always best if you can, so you can feel how it plays and sounds.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.