12 String Acoustic Guitars
The acoustic guitar is one of the most recognizable instruments in the world. You love the way it sounds, the way it looks and the way it just seems to fit perfectly into your hand. You've experienced the traditionally-designed guitar, but are now in the market for a new musical challenge, something to deepen your appreciation for acoustic sounds. The 12-string acoustic is just what you need to take the next step on the road to becoming an accomplished guitarist. The 12-string acoustic is modeled after its 6-stringed cousin but its doubled strings allow it to produce richer, more ringing tones. This is because there are 12-strings jam-packed into 6 courses, with 2 strings per course. This makes what is referred to as a natural chorus effect because of the subtle differences in frequencies that are produced by strumming each of the two strings on the course. In standard 12-string tuning, the two strings in each bass course are typically tuned an octave apart, while strings in the treble course are tuned in unison.
Another sound option is open tuning. This is when the open strings are tuned to form a chord allowing the sound of a chord to be made without fretting any strings. Developing the sound you want to produce may take some time, but will be a breeze once you completely familiarize yourself with your instrument. Following the classic hollow-bodied look of the acoustic guitar, 12-string models are crafted from durable tonewoods with a curved body and lengthy neck. As with all guitars, the sound produced relies heavily on the type of wood used to make the instrument. An alder-bodied guitar gives off a full-bodied sound with heavy mids and sizzling highs, while maple is said to provide crisper, clear tones with super-tight lows. With lots of options out there when it comes to construction, it's important to take the time to understand the different types before settling on one specific instrument. From Pink Floyd to Gordon Lightfoot, musicians have been jamming on the 12-string acoustic guitar for decades. Known for its distinct sound and cool look, this instrument is a welcome addition to every musician's collection of stringed instruments.