Navigating the world of Tenor Guitars can be an exciting journey, especially for musicians familiar with instruments like mandolas, bouzoukis, and octave mandolins. Like these related instruments, the tenor guitar offers a unique sonic palette, but it also comes with its own set of considerations, particularly when it comes to tuning and string gauges. One common question that arises for tenor guitar players revolves around achieving the instrument’s traditional tuning and finding the right strings for optimal playability.
Many players are aware that tenor guitars are traditionally tuned in fifths, specifically ADGC, from low to high. This tuning mirrors the lower four strings of a cello or mandocello, and provides a distinctive range and voicing that’s different from a standard guitar. However, what happens when your tenor guitar seems to defy this standard? What if your instrument’s scale length throws a wrench into the works, making the desired ADGC tuning feel like a distant dream?
One player recently encountered this very issue, receiving a Korean-built tenor guitar with a longer scale length than typical – around 25 1/4 to 25 3/8 inches (641 to 645mm). This discovery came after a string snapped while attempting to tune up to ADGC with standard tenor guitar strings. The longer scale length meant that reaching ADGC with those strings would require significantly more tension, potentially leading to string breakage.
So, can you achieve the “true” tenor guitar tuning of ADGC on a longer scale instrument? And if EADG tuning (similar to an octave mandolin or the higher four strings of a standard guitar) becomes the more practical option, what string gauges are ideal?
ADGC Tuning and String Gauge Considerations
Achieving ADGC tuning on a longer scale tenor guitar definitely presents a challenge. To reach those lower notes at the correct pitch on a longer scale, you would need to use heavier gauge strings to handle the increased tension. Without heavier strings, you risk the strings being too slack and sounding floppy or buzzing.
To determine the specific string gauges required for ADGC tuning on a 25 1/4″ to 25 3/8″ scale, you’d likely need to experiment with different sets or even custom string gauges. Consulting string tension calculators or seeking advice from string manufacturers could be beneficial. You may need to go significantly heavier than standard tenor guitar sets to get the strings up to pitch without them being too loose.
EADG Tuning: A Viable Alternative
For many tenor guitarists with longer scale instruments, EADG tuning becomes a more practical and comfortable alternative. This tuning, identical to the top four strings of a standard guitar or an octave mandolin, offers familiarity and a wealth of chord shapes and musical possibilities.
If opting for EADG tuning on a longer scale tenor guitar, you’ll still want to consider string gauge to ensure proper tension and playability. Standard light gauge guitar strings might feel too loose. You may find that medium gauge guitar strings or even slightly heavier gauges provide a better feel and tone in EADG tuning on a longer scale.
Experimentation is key here. Starting with a medium gauge guitar string set and observing the tension and tone is a good approach. You can then adjust heavier or lighter as needed to find the sweet spot for your instrument and playing style.
General String Advice for Tenor Guitars
Regardless of whether you aim for ADGC or EADG tuning, remember these general tips for stringing your tenor guitar:
- Ball-end strings: Tenor guitars typically use ball-end strings, making standard guitar strings a convenient option.
- Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try different string gauges and brands to find what works best for your instrument and preferred tuning.
- Listen to your instrument: Pay attention to how the strings feel and sound. Are they too tight? Too loose? Is the tone bright and clear, or muddy and indistinct? Your ears are your best guide.
- Consider professional advice: If you’re unsure, consult a luthier or experienced guitar technician. They can offer valuable insights based on your specific instrument and playing needs.
Ultimately, whether you pursue the traditional ADGC tuning or opt for the versatile EADG tuning, the goal is to find a setup that allows your tenor guitar to sing and inspire your musical creativity.
