When it comes to choosing a guitar, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want a 6-string or 12-string guitar. Both types of guitars have their own unique sound and feel, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before making a decision.
Editor’s Notes: “6 string vs 12 string guitar”is a common topic of discussion among guitarists who are looking to expand their sound. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, understanding the differences between these two types of guitars can help you make the right decision for your playing style.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this 6 string vs 12 string guitar guide. In this guide, we’ll cover the key differences between these two types of guitars, as well as the pros and cons of each.
Key Differences
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 12-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 12 |
| String Arrangement | 6 individual strings | 12 strings arranged in pairs |
| Tuning | Standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E) | Octave tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E) |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier sound | Fuller, richer sound |
| Feel | Easier to play | More challenging to play |
| Price | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
Transition to main article topics
- The pros and cons of 6-string guitars
- The pros and cons of 12-string guitars
- How to choose the right guitar for your playing style
1. Number of strings
The number of strings is one of the most fundamental differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars. 6-string guitars have six individual strings, while 12-string guitars have 12 strings arranged in pairs. This difference in the number of strings has a significant impact on the sound, feel, and playability of the two types of guitars.
- Sound: The greater number of strings on a 12-string guitar gives it a fuller, richer sound than a 6-string guitar. This is because the strings on a 12-string guitar vibrate in sympathy with each other, creating a more resonant sound.
- Feel: The thicker strings on a 12-string guitar make it more challenging to play than a 6-string guitar. This is especially true for beginners, who may find it difficult to press down on the strings with enough force to produce a clear sound.
- Playability: The wider neck on a 12-string guitar can also make it more difficult to play, especially for players with smaller hands. Additionally, the thicker strings can make it more difficult to bend and vibrato, which can limit the range of techniques that can be used on a 12-string guitar.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
2. String arrangement
The string arrangement of a guitar is one of the most important factors that determines its sound and playability. 6-string guitars have six individual strings, while 12-string guitars have 12 strings arranged in pairs. This difference in string arrangement has a significant impact on the sound, feel, and playability of the two types of guitars.
The greater number of strings on a 12-string guitar gives it a fuller, richer sound than a 6-string guitar. This is because the strings on a 12-string guitar vibrate in sympathy with each other, creating a more resonant sound. Additionally, the thicker strings on a 12-string guitar give it a more powerful sound, which can be beneficial for playing in large ensembles or for cutting through a mix.
However, the thicker strings on a 12-string guitar also make it more challenging to play than a 6-string guitar. This is especially true for beginners, who may find it difficult to press down on the strings with enough force to produce a clear sound. Additionally, the wider neck on a 12-string guitar can make it more difficult to reach the strings, which can be a problem for players with smaller hands.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 12-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 12 |
| String arrangement | 6 individual strings | 12 strings arranged in pairs |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier sound | Fuller, richer sound |
| Feel | Easier to play | More challenging to play |
| Price | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
3. Tuning
The tuning of a guitar is one of the most important factors that determines its sound and playability. 6-string guitars are typically tuned to standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E), while 12-string guitars are typically tuned to octave tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E). This difference in tuning has a significant impact on the sound, feel, and playability of the two types of guitars.
- Sound: The octave tuning of a 12-string guitar gives it a fuller, richer sound than a 6-string guitar. This is because the strings on a 12-string guitar are tuned in pairs, with the higher string tuned an octave above the lower string. This creates a more resonant sound, which is especially noticeable when playing chords.
- Feel: The octave tuning of a 12-string guitar also makes it more challenging to play than a 6-string guitar. This is because the higher strings on a 12-string guitar are thinner and more difficult to press down. Additionally, the wider neck on a 12-string guitar can make it more difficult to reach the strings, which can be a problem for players with smaller hands.
- Playability: The octave tuning of a 12-string guitar can also limit the range of techniques that can be used. For example, it can be more difficult to bend and vibrato the strings
on a 12-string guitar, which can make it more difficult to play certain types of music.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between the tuning of 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
4. Sound
The difference in sound between 6-string and 12-string guitars is due to a number of factors, including the number of strings, the string arrangement, and the tuning. 6-string guitars have a brighter, twangier sound because they have fewer strings and the strings are tuned to a higher tension. 12-string guitars have a fuller, richer sound because they have more strings and the strings are tuned to a lower tension.
The number of strings on a guitar has a significant impact on its sound. More strings produce a fuller sound, while fewer strings produce a brighter sound. This is because the more strings there are, the more sound waves are produced. The sound waves from the different strings interact with each other, creating a more complex and resonant sound.
The string arrangement on a guitar also affects its sound. 6-string guitars have six individual strings, while 12-string guitars have 12 strings arranged in pairs. The strings on a 12-string guitar are tuned in octaves, which means that the higher string is tuned an octave above the lower string. This creates a fuller sound, as the two strings reinforce each other.
The tuning of a guitar also affects its sound. 6-string guitars are typically tuned to standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E), while 12-string guitars are typically tuned to octave tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E). The lower tuning of the 12-string guitar gives it a fuller, richer sound.
The difference in sound between 6-string and 12-string guitars makes them suitable for different genres of music. 6-string guitars are commonly used in rock, pop, and country music, while 12-string guitars are commonly used in folk, blues, and Celtic music.
5. Feel
The number of strings on a guitar has a significant impact on its playability. 6-string guitars are generally easier to play than 12-string guitars because they have fewer strings. This is especially true for beginners, who may find it difficult to press down on the strings of a 12-string guitar with enough force to produce a clear sound.
In addition to the number of strings, the string arrangement on a guitar also affects its playability. 6-string guitars have six individual strings, while 12-string guitars have 12 strings arranged in pairs. The strings on a 12-string guitar are closer together than the strings on a 6-string guitar, which can make it more difficult to play chords and fingerpick.
The combination of fewer strings and a wider string spacing makes 6-string guitars easier to play than 12-string guitars. This is especially important for beginners, who may find it frustrating to try to learn to play on a 12-string guitar.
However, it is important to note that 12-string guitars have a unique sound that many players find appealing. If you are interested in playing a 12-string guitar, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved and to be prepared to put in the extra effort to learn how to play it.
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 12-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 12 |
| String arrangement | 6 individual strings | 12 strings arranged in pairs |
| Playability | Easier to play | More challenging to play |
6. Price
The price of a guitar is influenced by a number of factors, including the type of guitar, the brand, the materials used, and the country of origin. However, in general, 6-string guitars are less expensive than 12-string guitars.
- Materials: 6-string guitars typically use less wood and other materials than 12-string guitars, which contributes to their lower cost.
- Manufacturing: 6-string guitars are easier to manufacture than 12-string guitars, which also contributes to their lower cost.
- Demand: 6-string guitars are more popular than 12-string guitars, which means that manufacturers can produce them in larger quantities and at a lower cost.
The lower price of 6-string guitars makes them a more accessible option for many guitarists, especially beginners. However, it is important to note that 12-string guitars offer a unique sound that many players find appealing. If you are interested in playing a 12-string guitar, it is important to be aware of the higher cost and to be prepared to pay more for a quality instrument.
7. Genres
The choice of guitar strings can have a significant impact on the sound and feel of the instrument, and this is especially true when it comes to the number of strings. 6-string guitars are the most common type of guitar, and they are used in a wide variety of genres, including rock, pop, country, and folk. 12-string guitars have a fuller, richer sound than 6-string guitars, and they are often used in folk, country, and blues music.
- Genres where 6-string guitars are commonly used:
6-string guitars are the most versatile type of guitar, and they can be used in a wide variety of genres. Some of the most popular genres where 6-string guitars are used include rock, pop, country, and folk. 6-string guitars are also commonly used in jazz, blues, and classical music.
- Genres where 12-string guitars are commonly used:
12-string guitars have a unique sound that is often used in folk, country, and blues music. The fuller, richer sound of a 12-string guitar can add a depth and complexity to these genres. 12-string guitars are also sometimes used in rock and pop music, but they are not as common as 6-string guitars in these genres.
- The impact of string count on sound and feel:
The number of strings on a guitar has a significant impact on its sound and feel. 6-string guitars have a brighter, twangier sound than 12-string guitars, while 12-string guitars have a fuller, richer sound. 6-string guitars are also generally easier to play than 12-string guitars, due to the fact that they have fewer strings.
- Choosing the right guitar for your needs:
When choosing a guitar, it is important to consider the type of music you want to play. If you are interested in playing a wide variety of genres, then a 6-string guitar is a good choice. If you are interested in playing folk, country, or blues music, then a 12-string guitar may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between 6-string and 12-string gui
tars, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
8. Famous players
The choice between a 6-string guitar and a 12-string guitar can be a difficult one, but it is important to consider the type of music you want to play and the sound you want to achieve. If you are interested in playing a wide variety of genres, then a 6-string guitar is a good choice. If you are interested in playing folk, country, or blues music, then a 12-string guitar may be a better choice.
One of the best ways to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to look at the famous players who have used each type of guitar. Some of the most famous 6-string guitarists include Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Bob Dylan. Some of the most famous 12-string guitarists include Leo Kottke, John Denver, and Roger McGuinn.
By looking at the famous players who have used each type of guitar, you can get a better idea of the sound and style that each type of guitar can produce. This can help you make a more informed decision about which type of guitar is right for you.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, and by looking at the famous players who have used each type of guitar, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
| Guitar Type | Famous Players | Sound | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-string guitar | Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan | Brighter, twangier | Rock, pop, country, folk |
| 12-string guitar | Leo Kottke, John Denver, Roger McGuinn | Fuller, richer | Folk, country, blues |
FAQs about 6-string vs. 12-string guitars
When choosing between a 6-string and a 12-string guitar, there are several key factors to consider, including the sound, feel, playability, and price. This FAQ section aims to address some of the most common questions and misconceptions about these two types of guitars.
Question 1: Which type of guitar is better for beginners?
6-string guitars are generally considered to be better for beginners than 12-string guitars. They are easier to play, have a brighter sound, and are less expensive. 12-string guitars can be more challenging to play, have a fuller sound, and are typically more expensive.
Question 2: What are the main differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars?
The main differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars are the number of strings, the string arrangement, the tuning, the sound, the feel, and the price. 6-string guitars have six individual strings, while 12-string guitars have 12 strings arranged in pairs. 6-string guitars are typically tuned to standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E), while 12-string guitars are typically tuned to octave tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E). 6-string guitars have a brighter sound, while 12-string guitars have a fuller sound. 6-string guitars are generally easier to play than 12-string guitars, and 6-string guitars are typically less expensive than 12-string guitars.
Question 3: Which type of guitar is better for strumming?
Both 6-string and 12-string guitars can be used for strumming, but 6-string guitars are generally better for this purpose. They are easier to play, have a brighter sound, and are less expensive. 12-string guitars can be more challenging to play, have a fuller sound, and are typically more expensive.
Question 4: Which type of guitar is better for fingerpicking?
Both 6-string and 12-string guitars can be used for fingerpicking, but 6-string guitars are generally better for this purpose. They are easier to play, have a brighter sound, and are less expensive. 12-string guitars can be more challenging to play, have a fuller sound, and are typically more expensive.
Question 5: Which type of guitar is more versatile?
6-string guitars are more versatile than 12-string guitars. They can be used to play a wider variety of genres, including rock, pop, country, folk, and blues. 12-string guitars are typically used for folk, country, and blues music.
Question 6: Which type of guitar is better for recording?
Both 6-string and 12-string guitars can be used for recording, but 6-string guitars are generally better for this purpose. They are easier to play, have a brighter sound, and are less expensive. 12-string guitars can be more challenging to play, have a fuller sound, and are typically more expensive.
Summary:
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. However, by understanding the key differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can narrow down your choices and make a more informed decision.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you understand the key differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can start to explore the different models and brands available. In the next section, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the best 6-string and 12-string guitars on the market.
Tips on Choosing Between a 6-String and a 12-String Guitar
When choosing between a 6-string and a 12-string guitar, there are several key factors to consider, including the sound, feel, playability, and price. This section provides a few tips to help you make an informed decision.
Tip 1: Consider your musical style.The type of music you want to play should be a major factor in your decision. 6-string guitars are more versatile and can be used to play a wider variety of genres, including rock, pop, country, and folk. 12-string guitars have a unique sound that is often used in folk, country, and blues music.Tip 2: Think about your skill level.If you are a beginner, a 6-string guitar is a better choice. They are easier to play, have a brighter sound, and are less expensive. 12-string guitars can be more challenging to play, have a fuller sound, and are typically more expensive.Tip 3: Try out both types of guitars before you buy.There is no substitute for trying out both types of guitars before you make a decision. This will allow you to compare the sound, feel, and playability of each type of guitar and make an informed decision about which one is right for you.Tip 4: Consider your budget.6-string guitars are typically less expensive than 12-string guitars. However, the price of a guitar can vary depending on the brand, materials, and features. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.Tip 5: Get advice from a guitar teacher or experienced player.If you are still unsure about which type of guitar is right for you, talk to a guitar teacher or experienced player. They can provide you with valuable advice and help you make the best decision for your needs.
By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and start enjoying the wonderful world of music.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between 6-string and 12-string guitars, you can make an informed decision about which type of guitar is right for you. With so many great guitars on the market, you ar
e sure to find the perfect instrument to help you express your musical creativity.
Conclusion
The choice between a 6-string and a 12-string guitar is a matter of personal preference. Both types of guitars have their own unique sound, feel, and playability. 6-string guitars are more versatile and easier to play, while 12-string guitars have a fuller sound that is often used in folk, country, and blues music.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider your musical style, skill level, budget, and the advice of experienced players. With so many great guitars on the market, you are sure to find the perfect instrument to help you express your musical creativity.
