12 String Guitars

12 String Guitars offer a unique sound by adding extra strings to the standard 6 string guitar. While six strings keep the normal tuning, the extra strings are a combination of doubled strings and octaves. The upper two courses (or higher strings) are tuned in unison, while the lower four courses have the extra strings tuned an octave higher. 12 string guitars are great for rhythm guitar playing - as with full barre chords you get the massive sound of all twelve strings ringing out! The upper octave added to the lower four strings delivers a really distinctive sound which can be great for live performances or studio work.

12 string acoustic guitars are available from a range of brands, including Taylor, Martin, Fender, Alvarez and Yamaha. There all kinds of body shapes available, so whether it is a grand concert, grand auditorium or jumbo body shape you're looking for you'll find it here. Acoustic guitarists also know how important wood choice is, so whether it's a solid sitka spruce top with a solid rosewood back and sides or something more exotic there are all kinds of combinations for different sounds. If you're playing gigs, a guitar such as the Taylor 150ce dreadnought with Taylors expression system 2 pickup is a great guitar.

12 string guitars fit in almost any style of music. They are a great way to add that extra special touch to a song or to give it totally a unique sound. These acoustic guitars have been used for decades on countless hit records by bands such as The Eagles, Queen, Tom Petty and Alice In Chains. 12 string acoustic guitars produce a rich sound that is certianly unlike anything else. Nearly all the major acoustic guitar brands produce 12 string models, showing they are just as popular now as when they gained popularity in the 1970s. These range from entry models to top range editions, with many of them featuring electronics for full versatility.

Whether you finally want to learn the intro to Hotel California or feel like taking your songwriting in a new direction, a 12 string acoustic guitar is a great addition for any player.

Why Should I Choose a 12 String Guitar?

• A distinctive sound that sets it apart from other acoustic guitars
• Great for retro-style rock and pop
• Used on many professional recordings to add that "magic touch"
• A 12 string acoustic guitar has a familiar feel to guitarists
• Good as a vocal accompaniment