I just bought a new 12 string, not had one since the last century
I'm getting on a bit, so have a bit of arthritis in some finger and thumb joints
On my 6 string acoustics I use 11s, with an action ideally between 1.75 and 2mm on the treble side, 2.25-2.5mm on the bass side
I'm wondering what gauge to use. I've not had it set up yet, so the fret slots are probably high, the saddle is, but I am getting a few aches
I've ordered a set of
D'Addario EZ940 Great American Bronze Light (.010.-050) only £7 !
and
Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Light 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Set, .009 - .046
I also read last night that many drop the tuning down one or two semitones
This guitar is for seeing if I like to play 12 string occasionally, the sound does not have to be optimum, it's the playability that's the priority here
Your advice is welcome
Comments
The Ernie Ball 9s will be OK if you do need to tune up to E, but they're probably going to be a bit bright and zingy-sounding, both because of the gauge and the 80/20 bronze.
"Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone." - Walt Kowalski
"Only two things are infinite - the universe, and human stupidity. And I'm not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein