What is a 12-string guitar? 12-string guitars are guitars with 12 strings instead of the traditional six. The strings are typically arranged in courses of two, with each course tuned an octave apart. This gives the guitar a fuller, richer sound than a six-string guitar.
Editor’s Note:12-string guitars are popular for a variety of genres of music, including folk, rock, and blues. They are also often used in classical music.
We’ve done the analysis, dug into the information, and put together this 12-string guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences Between 6-String and 12-String Guitars
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 12-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 12 |
| Tuning | Standard tuning: EADGBE | Standard tuning: EAEADGBE |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier sound | Fuller, richer sound |
| Playing style | Easier to play than a 12-string guitar | More difficult to play than a 6-string guitar |
12-String Guitar Benefits
- Fuller, richer sound
- Can add a unique texture to your music
- Can be used in a variety of genres of music
12-String Guitar Drawbacks
- More difficult to play than a 6-string guitar
- More expensive than a 6-string guitar
- Can be more difficult to find strings for
Conclusion
Whether or not a 12-string guitar is right for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a guitar with a fuller, richer sound that can add a unique texture to your music, then a 12-string guitar may be a good option for you. However, if you’re a beginner guitarist or you’re on a budget, then a 6-string guitar may be a better choice.
1. Body shape
The body shape of a 12-string guitar affects its sound, projection, and playability. Dreadnought, jumbo, and concert are three of the most popular body shapes for 12-string guitars, each with its own unique characteristics.
- Dreadnought: Dreadnought guitars have a large, square body with a deep waist. This gives them a powerful, booming sound with plenty of projection. Dreadnought guitars are a good choice for strumming and flatpicking.
- Jumbo: Jumbo guitars have a larger body than dreadnought guitars, with a more rounded shape. This gives them a warmer, fuller sound with more sustain. Jumbo guitars are a good choice for fingerpicking and soloing.
- Concert: Concert guitars have a smaller body than dreadnought and jumbo guitars, with a narrower waist. This gives them a more balanced sound with good projection and clarity. Concert guitars are a good choice for all-around playing.
When choosing a 12-string guitar, it is important to consider the body shape that best suits your playing style and needs. If you are looking for a guitar with a powerful, booming sound, a dreadnought guitar is a good choice. If you are looking for a guitar with a warmer, fuller sound, a jumbo guitar is a good choice. And if you are looking for a guitar with a balanced sound, a concert guitar is a good choice.
2. Tonewoods
The tonewood used in the construction of a 12-string guitar black can have a significant impact on its sound and playability. Spruce, mahogany, and rosewood are three of the most popular tonewoods used for 12-string guitars, each with its own unique characteristics.
- Spruce: Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the soundboards of 12-string guitars because it produces a well-balanced sound with good projection.
- Mahogany: Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of 12-string guitars because it produces a deep, resonant sound with good sustain.
- Rosewood: Rosewood is a dense wood with a dark, mellow sound. It is often used for the fingerboards of 12-string guitars because it produces a smooth, articulate sound.
When choosing a 12-string guitar black, it is important to consider the tonewood that best suits your playing style and needs. If you are looking for a guitar with a bright, clear sound, spruce is a good choice. If you are looking for a guitar with a warm, rich sound, mahogany is a good choice. And if you are looking for a guitar with a dark, mellow sound, rosewood is a good choice.
3. Neck shape
The neck shape of a 12-string guitar black is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. The neck shape should be comfortable to play, and the scale length should be appropriate for your playing style.The neck shape of a 12-string guitar black can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Some necks are wider than others, and some have a different radius. The radius of a neck refers to the curvature of the fretboard. A flatter radius neck is easier to play for some guitarists, while a more curved radius neck is easier to play for others.The scale length of a 12-string guitar black is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length is easier to play for some guitarists, while a longer scale length is easier to play for others.It is important to try out different 12-string guitars black with different neck shapes and scale lengths to find the one that is most comfortable for you to play.Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between different neck shapes and scale lengths:| Neck Shape | Scale Length | Pros | Cons ||—|—|—|—|| Wide neck | Short scale | Easier to play for some guitarists | Can sound muddy || Narrow neck | Long scale | Harder to play for some guitarists | Can sound brighter || Flatter radius | Shorter scale | Easier to play for some guitarists | Can feel less comfortable || More curved radius | Longer scale | Harder to play for some guitarists | Can feel more comfortable |Ultimately, the best way to choose the right neck shape and scale length for your 12-string guitar black is to try out different guitars and see what feels most comfortable for you.
In addition to the neck shape and scale length, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing a 12-string guitar black. These factors include the body shape, the tonewoods used, and the electronics. By considering all of these factors, you can choose a 12-string guitar black that is perfect for your playing style and n
eeds.
4. Electronics
12-string guitars are known for their rich, full sound, and black 12-string guitars offer a unique and stylish look. However, if you plan on playing your 12-string guitar amplified, you’ll need to choose a model with electronics.
There are two main types of electronics that you can find on a 12-string guitar black: preamps and pickups. Preamps amplify the signal from the guitar’s pickups, and pickups convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. Some 12-string guitars black come with built-in preamps and pickups, while others require you to purchase and install them separately.
If you’re not sure whether or not you need electronics on your 12-string guitar black, here are a few things to consider:
- Do you plan on playing your guitar amplified?
- What type of music do you play?
- What is your budget?
If you answered yes to the first question, then you will need electronics on your 12-string guitar black. The type of music you play will also affect the type of electronics you need. For example, if you play heavy metal, you will need a preamp with a lot of gain. If you play folk music, you may be able to get away with a simpler preamp.
Finally, your budget will also play a role in the type of electronics you choose. There are a wide range of electronics available on the market, so you should be able to find something that fits your needs and budget.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points:
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Electronics | Essential for playing amplified |
| Type of music | Affects the type of electronics needed |
| Budget | Plays a role in the type of electronics chosen |
5. Hardware
When it comes to 12-string guitars, the hardware is just as important as the wood and the electronics. The hardware includes all of the metal parts on the guitar, such as the tuners, the bridge, and the strap buttons. These parts play a vital role in the guitar’s playability, sound, and durability.
- Tuners: The tuners are responsible for keeping the guitar in tune. They should be smooth and precise, and they should hold the strings securely. Cheap or poorly made tuners can make it difficult to keep the guitar in tune, and they can even damage the strings.
- Bridge: The bridge is responsible for transferring the vibrations of the strings to the body of the guitar. It should be sturdy and well-made, and it should allow for easy intonation adjustment. A poorly made bridge can result in a weak sound and poor intonation.
- Strap buttons: The strap buttons are used to attach the guitar strap. They should be strong and durable, and they should be securely attached to the guitar. Cheap or poorly made strap buttons can break, which can cause the guitar to fall and be damaged.
When choosing a 12-string guitar black, it is important to pay attention to the hardware. The hardware should be durable and reliable, and it should be made from high-quality materials. By choosing a guitar with good hardware, you can ensure that your guitar will play well and last for many years to come.
6. Strings
12-string guitars require special strings because they have 12 strings instead of the traditional six. The strings are typically arranged in courses of two, with each course tuned an octave apart. This gives the guitar a fuller, richer sound than a six-string guitar.
The type of strings you choose for your 12-string guitar black will depend on your playing style and the sound you want to achieve. There are a variety of brands and gauges of strings available, so it is important to experiment to find the strings that work best for you.
Some of the most popular brands of 12-string guitar strings include D’Addario, Elixir, and Martin. These brands offer a variety of gauges, so you can find the strings that are the right tension for your playing style.
It is important to note that 12-string guitar strings are more expensive than six-string guitar strings. This is because they are more difficult to manufacture. However, the cost of strings is a small investment compared to the cost of a new guitar.
By choosing the right strings for your 12-string guitar black, you can ensure that you get the best possible sound and playing experience.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points:
| Brand | Gauge | Tension | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| D’Addario | .010-.047 | Light | Bright and clear |
| Elixir | .011-.052 | Medium | Warm and full |
| Martin | .012-.056 | Heavy | Deep and resonant |
7. Price
The price of a 12-string guitar black can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, the materials used, and the features. However, in general, you can expect to pay more for a 12-string guitar black than you would for a six-string guitar.
- Brand: The brand of the guitar can have a significant impact on the price. Some of the most popular brands of 12-string guitars black include Taylor, Martin, and Gibson. These brands are known for their high-quality guitars, and you can expect to pay a premium for a guitar from one of these brands.
- Materials: The materials used in the construction of the guitar can also affect the price. Guitars made from high-quality materials, such as solid wood, will typically be more expensive than guitars made from less expensive materials, such as laminate.
- Features: The features of the guitar can also affect the price. Guitars with more features, such as built-in electronics, will typically be more expensive than guitars with fewer features.
Ultimately, the price of a 12-string guitar black is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a high-quality guitar that will last for many years, you should be prepared to pay a higher price. However, if you are on a budget, there are a number of affordable 12-string guitars black available on the market.
8. Brand
When it comes to choosing a 12-string guitar, the brand is an important factor to consider. There are many different brands of 12-string guitars on the market, each with its own unique sound and feel. Some of the most popular brands of 12-string guitars include Taylor, Martin, and Gibson. These brands are known for their high-quality guitars, and you can expect to pay a premium for a guitar from one of these brands.
- Reputation: The reputation of a brand is an important factor to consider when choosing a 12-string guitar. Brands that have a good reputation for making high-quality guitars are more likely to produce a guitar that you will be happy with. You can read online reviews or talk to other guitarists to get their opinions on different brands.
- Sound: The sound of a guitar is another important factor to consider. Different brands of guitars have different sounds, so it is important to try out a few different guitars before you decide on one. You can listen to sound samples online or go to a guitar store to try out different guitars in person.
- Playability: The playability of a guitar is also an important factor to consider. Some guitars are easier to play than others, so it is important to find a guitar that feels comfortable to play. You can try out different guitars at a guitar store to find one that feels good in your hands.
- Price: The price of a guitar is also an important factor to consider. 12-string guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a guitar so that you don’t overspend.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose a 12-string guitar black that is right for you. Choosing the right brand is an important part of this process, so take your time and do your research before you buy.
9. Reviews
Customer reviews are a valuable resource for any consumer, and they are especially helpful when you are considering a big purchase like a 12-string guitar black. By reading reviews, you can learn about the pros and cons of different models and get a sense of what other guitarists think of them. This information can help you make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
- Insights into real-world performance: Reviews can provide insights into how a 12-string guitar black performs in real-world situations. They can tell you about the guitar’s playability, sound quality, and durability. This information can be invaluable in helping you choose a guitar that will meet your needs.
- Identification of potential issues: Reviews can also help you identify potential issues with a particular 12-string guitar black. For example, you may learn that a certain model is prone to tuning problems or that it has a neck that is too wide for some players. This information can help you avoid guitars that are not a good fit for you.
- Comparison of different models: Reviews can be a great way to compare different models of 12-string guitars black. By reading reviews of several different models, you can get a sense of their relative strengths and weaknesses. This information can help you narrow down your choices and choose the guitar that is right for you.
- Information on specific features: Reviews can also provide information on specific features of 12-string guitars black. For example, you may learn about the different types of pickups that are available or the different finishes that are offered. This information can help you choose a guitar that has the features that you want.
Of course, it is important to keep in mind that reviews are subjective. Not everyone will agree on what makes a good 12-string guitar black. However, by reading a variety of reviews, you can get a good sense of the overall consensus on a particular model. This information can be a valuable resource in helping you make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
10. Warranty
A warranty is an important consideration when purchasing any product, and 12-string guitars are no exception. A warranty is a guarantee from the manufacturer that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period of time. This is important because it gives you peace of mind knowing that you can get your guitar repaired or replaced if something goes wrong.
The length of the warranty varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but most 12-string guitars come with a warranty of at least one year. Some manufacturers offer warranties of up to five years or even longer. It is important to read the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully before you buy to make sure that you understand what is covered and what is not.
For example, some warranties may only cover defects in materials and workmanship, while others may also cover damage caused by accidental drops or spills. It is also important to know how to file a warranty claim. Some manufacturers require you to return the guitar to the store where you purchased it, while others allow you to file a claim online or by phone.
If you are considering purchasing a 12-string guitar, be sure to factor the warranty into your decision. A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected if something goes wrong with your guitar.
Here is a table summarizing the key points of this discussion:
| Warranty | Importance |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Provides peace of mind |
| Length | Varies from manufacturer to manufacturer |
| Terms and conditions | Important to read before purchasing |
12-String Guitar Black FAQs
This section addresses frequently asked questions about 12-string guitars black. The answers aim to provide accurate and informative responses.
Question 1: What are the benefits of a 12-string guitar black?
12-string guitars offer a fuller and richer sound compared to traditional six-string guitars due to the doubled strings in each course. The black color adds a stylish and distinctive aesthetic appeal.
Question 2: What should I consider when choosing a 12-string guitar black?
Factors to consider include body shape, tonewoods, neck shape, scale length, electronics, hardware, strings, price, brand, reviews, and warranty.
Question 3: What is the typical price range for a 12-string guitar black?
The price can vary depending on brand, materials, and features. Generally, expect to pay between a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Question 4: What are the advantages of buying a 12-string guitar black from a reputable brand?
Established brands often offer higher quality materials, better construction, reliable warranties, and consistent sound characteristics.
Question 5: Why should I read reviews before purchasing a 12-string guitar black?
Reviews provide valuable insights into real-world experiences, potential issues, performance evaluations, and comparisons with other models.
Question 6: What is the importance of a warranty when buying a 12-string guitar black?
A warranty provides peace of mind and protection against defects in materials or workmanship, ensuring a longer lifespan for your instrument.
Summary: 12-string guitars black combine the rich, full sound of a 12-string with a stylish black aesthetic. Carefully consider your needs and preferences when choosing a guitar, and don’t hesitate to research and ask questions to make an informed de
cision.
Transition: For further exploration, continue reading the provided article for additional insights and information on 12-string guitars black.
Tips for Choosing a 12-String Guitar Black
Selecting a 12-string guitar black requires careful consideration. Here are some essential tips to guide your decision-making process:
Tip 1: Determine Your Musical Needs
Consider the genres of music you play and the desired sound characteristics. 12-string guitars excel in folk, blues, and rock, providing a rich and resonant tone.
Tip 2: Explore Body Shapes and Tonewoods
Different body shapes, such as dreadnought, jumbo, and concert, impact the guitar’s sound projection and resonance. Tonewoods like spruce, mahogany, and rosewood contribute to the overall tonal quality and warmth.
Tip 3: Consider Playability
Choose a guitar with a neck shape and scale length that suits your playing style. The neck should feel comfortable in your hands, and the scale length should allow for easy fretting.
Tip 4: Evaluate Electronics and Hardware
If you plan on amplifying your guitar, consider models with built-in electronics. Additionally, pay attention to the quality of tuners, bridge, and strap buttons for optimal performance and durability.
Tip 5: Experiment with Strings
12-string guitars require specialized strings. Experiment with different brands and gauges to find the strings that deliver the desired tension, tone, and playability.
Tip 6: Set a Budget
12-string guitars can vary in price. Establish a realistic budget and research guitars within that range to find the best value for your money.
Summary: Selecting a 12-string guitar black involves considering your musical needs, exploring body shapes and tonewoods, ensuring playability, evaluating electronics and hardware, experimenting with strings, and setting a budget. By carefully following these tips, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect guitar that meets your requirements and aspirations.
Conclusion
The world of 12-string guitars offers a unique and captivating sonic experience. 12-string guitars black, in particular, combine the rich with a sleek and stylish aesthetic. Throughout this exploration, we have delved into the intricacies of these instruments, examining their construction, tonal characteristics, and essential considerations for choosing the perfect one.
As you embark on your own journey to find the ideal 12-string guitar black, remember the key points discussed: consider your musical needs, explore body shapes and tonewoods, ensure playability, evaluate electronics and hardware, experiment with strings, and set a budget. By carefully weighing these factors, you will be able to make an informed decision and select a guitar that will not only inspire your creativity but also become a cherished companion on your musical path.
