Hints on Tuning a 12 String Acoustic?

[castpolymer]

I just received a 12 string entry level Fender acoustic from my wife for Christmas ( she rules ). I have never owned one before and I was wondering if any acoustic gurus out there have any time saving tips on tuning this guitar. Thanks, Dale.

[johnnykf]

Takes some practice. When I change strings on my 12'er, I put them on first, with enough tension to keep them from unwinding on the tuner posts, then use a cheap Korg tuner to do the primary 6 strings first, then I go back and do the secondary 6. Takes awhile to do till you get used to it.
I don't have perfect pitch so it works for me!

[FirstBassman]

Originally Posted by castpolymer

I was wondering if any acoustic gurus out there have any time saving tips on tuning this guitar. Thanks, Dale.

First, congrats on the 12-string! Nature's gift to music.


Not sure I understand though exactly what you're asking.
'Time saving' in what sense?
Are you having any particular problem?

And you said "tuning."
Not necessarily changing strings, correct?

[BrianF]

Originally Posted by castpolymer

I just received a 12 string entry level Fender acoustic from my wife for Christmas ( she rules ). I have never owned one before and I was wondering if any acoustic gurus out there have any time saving tips on tuning this guitar. Thanks, Dale.

String pairs 6, 5, 4, 3 are tuned an octave apart... The normal (heavier) string of each pair is tuned normally...and the smaller string of the pair is tuned an octave higher than the normal string. String pairs 2 and 1 and tuned in unison...

So tune the main (normal strings as normal) and then go and tune the octave strings and the unison strings

[charlie chitlin]

Tune down at least a half step and capo up if you need concert pitch.
You'll save a lot of high G strings.

[Phat-o-Caster]

Don't drink and try to tune it ;)

+1 on the tuner

[gitano718]

Dale,
Try following this link. It's been very helpful to me over the years and enjoy playing open chords on your 12. There's nothing like it. Happy holidays.
www.get-tuned.com/12_string_guitar_tuner.php

[RickG501]

Originally Posted by castpolymer

I just received a 12 string entry level Fender acoustic from my wife for Christmas ( she rules ). I have never owned one before and I was wondering if any acoustic gurus out there have any time saving tips on tuning this guitar. Thanks, Dale.

Only put 6 strings on it....

Oh and Merry Christmas congrats on the 12....