The Twelve String Electric Guitar, often perceived as a niche instrument, holds a captivating allure for guitarists seeking a richer, more resonant sound. While its six-string counterpart remains the industry standard, venturing into the world of the twelve string electric guitar unlocks a unique sonic dimension that can elevate your playing and inspire new creative avenues. If you’re intrigued by the idea of expanding your guitar arsenal, or simply curious about what makes these instruments special, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide delves into the fundamentals of the twelve string electric guitar, exploring its construction, tuning, playing techniques, and the distinctive sound that has captivated musicians across genres. We’ll dispel common myths and provide insights to help you understand and appreciate this often-misunderstood instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned six-string player or just beginning your musical journey, prepare to discover the enchanting world of the twelve string electric guitar.
Unpacking the Twelve String Electric Guitar: How It Works
At first glance, a twelve string electric guitar might appear similar to its six-string sibling, but a closer look reveals key differences that contribute to its unique sonic character. The most obvious distinction lies in the doubled strings. As the name suggests, a twelve string guitar boasts twelve strings instead of six, arranged in six courses or pairs.
These string pairs are not simply duplicates; they are tuned in specific intervals to create a fuller, more complex sound. The first two courses (G, D, A, E strings – corresponding to the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th strings on a standard guitar) are tuned in octaves, meaning one string in the pair is tuned an octave higher than the other. The higher two courses (B and high E strings – corresponding to the 2nd and 1st strings on a standard guitar) are tuned in unison, meaning both strings in the pair are tuned to the same pitch.
This octave and unison pairing is the secret behind the twelve string electric guitar’s signature sound. When you strum or pick a note, you’re essentially playing two strings simultaneously, creating a natural chorus effect. This chorus is richer and more organic than electronic effects, adding depth, shimmer, and a captivating spaciousness to chords and melodies.
Comparison chart
A visual comparison chart illustrating the string layout of a twelve-string guitar compared to a standard six-string, highlighting the paired string courses.
Tuning Your Twelve String Electric Guitar: A Closer Look
Tuning a twelve string electric guitar might seem daunting at first, but it’s a straightforward process once you understand the principle of paired strings. The “a” strings, as we can refer to the lower string in each course (closest to the floor when playing), are tuned exactly like a standard six-string guitar in standard E tuning (E A D G B e, from thickest to thinnest).
The “b” strings, the higher strings in each course (closest to the ceiling), are where the magic happens. The “b” strings for the E and B courses (1b and 2b) are tuned in unison with their “a” counterparts (1a and 2a), meaning they are tuned to the same E and B notes respectively.
Same notes
A tuning chart demonstrating the unison tuning of the high E and B string pairs on a twelve-string guitar, showing they produce the same notes as a standard six-string.
For the remaining four courses (G, D, A, and low E), the “b” strings (3b, 4b, 5b, and 6b) are tuned an octave higher than their “a” counterparts (3a, 4a, 5a, and 6a). This means the 3b string is tuned to a G note one octave above the open 3a string, and so on for the D, A, and low E courses.
Rest of the notes
An expanded tuning chart illustrating the octave tuning of the lower four string pairs on a twelve-string guitar, showing how the ‘b’ strings create higher octave versions of the standard notes.
Understanding this octave and unison tuning is crucial for correctly tuning your twelve string electric guitar and achieving its intended sound. Electronic tuners are invaluable tools for this process, ensuring each string is precisely in tune for optimal resonance and harmonic richness.
Playing the Twelve String Electric Guitar: Techniques and Considerations
If you’re already comfortable playing a six-string guitar, you’ll find the transition to a twelve string electric guitar surprisingly smooth. The fundamental techniques of fretting, strumming, and picking remain the same. However, there are a few nuances to consider to fully leverage the unique capabilities of this instrument.
One common concern is whether twelve string guitars are harder to play. While the neck is slightly wider to accommodate the extra strings, and the string tension is increased, the difference in playability is often overstated. With proper setup and technique, most guitarists adapt quickly.
Due to the doubled strings, barring chords can require slightly more finger strength initially. However, adjusting your technique to ensure you’re cleanly fretting both strings in each course will develop the necessary muscle memory and strength over time.
The twelve string electric guitar excels in various playing styles. Strumming open chords produces a massive, shimmering wall of sound, perfect for rhythm playing and creating a full sonic texture. Fingerpicking on a twelve string reveals intricate harmonic complexities, as the octave strings add delicate overtones and richness to arpeggiated patterns.
Experimenting with different picking techniques and dynamics is key to unlocking the full potential of a twelve string electric guitar. Whether you prefer a gentle fingerstyle approach or aggressive strumming, the twelve string responds with a unique and captivating voice.
Chord Voicings and the Twelve String Electric Guitar’s Extended Range
The octave strings on a twelve string electric guitar significantly expand the harmonic palette available to guitarists, especially when exploring chord voicings. Standard chord shapes take on a new dimension, with the octave strings adding higher harmonic content that enriches the overall sound.
For example, playing a simple G chord on a twelve string guitar introduces additional notes that extend beyond the typical range of a six-string voicing. This creates a fuller, more complex chord that resonates with a broader frequency spectrum.
[
G Chord
[G Chord
Similarly, C and Em chords played on a twelve string benefit from this expanded harmonic range, gaining depth and a shimmering quality that is distinctly characteristic of the instrument.
[
C Chord
[C Chord
[
Em Chord
[Em Chord
As you move up the neck and explore chords on the G and D strings, the twelve string electric guitar truly shines. The octave strings introduce notes that extend beyond the conventional chord voicings, creating richer, more complex harmonies. Chords like E, A, and D become particularly vibrant and expansive on a twelve string.
[
E Chord
[E Chord
[
A Chord
[A Chord
[
D Chord
[D Chord
This expanded harmonic range makes the twelve string electric guitar a favorite among songwriters and arrangers seeking to add depth and texture to their music. Experimenting with chord voicings up and down the neck is a rewarding journey that unlocks the instrument’s full sonic potential.
Iconic Twelve String Electric Guitar Songs and Players
The distinctive sound of the twelve string electric guitar has graced countless iconic songs across various genres. From the shimmering arpeggios of The Byrds to the driving rhythms of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the twelve string has left an indelible mark on popular music.
Roger McGuinn of The Byrds is perhaps the most iconic twelve string electric guitar player, popularizing its use in jangle-pop and folk-rock. His signature Rickenbacker twelve string became synonymous with the band’s sound, featured in hits like “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!”.
George Harrison of The Beatles also frequently utilized twelve string guitars, both acoustic and electric, adding rich textures to Beatles classics like “A Hard Day’s Night” and “If I Fell”. His use of the twelve string contributed to the band’s innovative and sonically diverse sound.
Tom Petty was another prominent proponent of the twelve string electric guitar, often incorporating it into his signature heartland rock sound. Songs like “Free Fallin'” and “American Girl” showcase the instrument’s ability to add both shimmer and driving rhythm to rock arrangements.
Beyond these iconic figures, countless other artists have embraced the twelve string electric guitar, including Led Zeppelin (in “Stairway to Heaven”), Pink Floyd (“Wish You Were Here”), and many contemporary musicians seeking its unique sonic character.
Choosing Your First Twelve String Electric Guitar
If you’re ready to explore the world of twelve string electric guitars, there are several factors to consider when choosing your first instrument.
Budget: Twelve string electric guitars are available across various price points. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow down your options. Entry-level models offer a great starting point without breaking the bank, while higher-end guitars boast premium features and materials.
Brands and Models: Reputable guitar brands like Fender, Gibson, Rickenbacker, Gretsch, and Danelectro all offer twelve string electric guitar models. Research different brands and models to find one that aligns with your sonic preferences and playing style. Rickenbacker twelve strings are known for their bright, jangly tone, while Fender and Gibson models often offer a warmer, more versatile sound.
Body Type: Twelve string electric guitars come in various body styles, including solid-body, semi-hollow, and hollow-body. Solid-body guitars are less prone to feedback and offer a focused tone, while semi-hollow and hollow-body guitars provide more resonance and warmth, often favored for genres like jangle-pop and rockabilly.
Pickups: The type of pickups significantly impacts the guitar’s tone. Single-coil pickups typically offer a brighter, more articulate sound, while humbucker pickups deliver a warmer, thicker tone with higher output. Consider the genres you intend to play when choosing pickup configurations.
Playability: While twelve string guitars generally have slightly wider necks, playability can vary between models. If possible, try out different guitars in person to assess neck comfort and overall feel. A well-setup twelve string should be comfortable to play and allow for smooth fretting and chord changes.
Conclusion: Embrace the Unique Voice of the Twelve String Electric Guitar
The twelve string electric guitar is more than just a novelty instrument; it’s a powerful tool for sonic exploration and creative expression. Its unique tuning and doubled strings create a captivating sound that adds depth, shimmer, and harmonic richness to any musical style.
Whether you’re drawn to the jangly tones of jangle-pop, the expansive soundscapes of rock, or simply seeking to expand your sonic palette, the twelve string electric guitar offers a rewarding and inspiring musical journey. Don’t be intimidated by the extra strings – embrace the challenge and discover the unique voice that awaits within this remarkable instrument. Explore different models, experiment with tunings and techniques, and unlock the sonic potential of the twelve string electric guitar in your own music.
