When it comes to choosing between a 6 string guitar or a 12 string guitar, which one is right for you? Both have their own unique sound and feel, so it’s important to understand the differences before you make a decision.
Editor’s Note: 6 vs 12 String Guitar: This is an important decision for any guitarist, as it will affect the sound, feel, and playability of your instrument. We’ve put together this guide to help you make the right choice for your needs.
Our team analyzed and dug out information, research, and some analysis, we put together this 6 vs 12 string guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| 6 String Guitar | 12 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 12 |
| 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 | Less expensive | More expensive |
Transition to main article topics
1. Number of Strings
The number of strings is the most obvious difference between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. A 6 string guitar has six strings, while a 12 string guitar has 12 strings. The 12 string guitar’s strings are tuned in octaves, which gives it a fuller, richer sound than a 6 string guitar.
The number of strings also affects the playability of the guitar. A 12 string guitar is more challenging to play than a 6 string guitar, due to the increased number of strings. This is because the strings are closer together, which makes it more difficult to fret the notes cleanly. Additionally, the increased tension of the strings makes it more difficult to bend and vibrato the notes.
Despite the challenges, many guitarists prefer the sound of a 12 string guitar. The fuller, richer sound is perfect for genres such as folk, rock, and country. Additionally, the 12 string guitar can be used to create unique and beautiful soundscapes.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between 6 string guitars and 12 string guitars:
| 6 String Guitar | 12 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 12 |
| 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 | Less expensive | More expensive |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
2. Tuning
Tuning is an important aspect of playing any guitar, but it is especially important for 6 and 12 string guitars. The tuning of a guitar affects the sound, feel, and playability of the instrument. Additionally, it’s important because it can affect the genres of music that you can play on each too.
- Standard tuning
Standard tuning is the most common tuning for both 6 and 12 string guitars. It is also the tuning that is used in most guitar instruction books and online tutorials. Standard tuning for a 6 string guitar is E, A, D, G, B, E. For a 12 string guitar, the tuning is E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E. Standard tuning is a good choice for beginners because it is easy to learn and it allows you to play a wide variety of genres of music.
- Open tunings
Open tunings are tunings in which the strings are tuned to a chord. This creates a unique sound that can be used to play certain styles of music, such as folk, blues, and slide guitar. There are many different open tunings, but some of the most common include:
- Open G: D, G, D, G, B, D
- Open D: D, A, D, F#, A, D
- Open C: C, G, C, G, C, E
- Dropped tunings
Dropped tunings are tunings in which one or more of the strings is tuned down a whole or half step. This creates a heavier, darker sound that is often used in rock and metal music. Some of the most common dropped tunings include:
- Drop D: D, A, D, G, B, E
- Drop C: C, G, C, F, A, D
- Drop B: B, F#, B, E, G#, C#
- Custom tunings
Custom tunings are tunings that are created by the guitarist to suit their own playing style or to achieve a specific sound. There are no limits to the number of custom tunings that can be created, and many guitarists have their own unique tunings that they use.
The tuning that you choose for your guitar will depend on the type of music that you want to play and your own personal preferences. Experiment with different tunings to find the one that works best for you.
3. Sound
The sound of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. The number of strings, the tuning, and the construction of the guitar all contribute to its unique sound.
- Number of strings
The number of strings on a guitar has a significant impact on its sound. A 6 string guitar has a brighter, twangier sound, while a 12 string guitar has a fuller, richer sound. This is because the 12 string guitar has more strings, which creates a wider range of overtones and harmonics.
- Tuning
The tuning of a guitar also affects its sound. Standard tuning for a 6 string guitar is E, A, D, G, B, E. Standard tuning for a 12 string guitar is E, A, D, G, B, E, A, D, G, B, E. The octave strings on a 12 string guitar create a fuller, richer sound than the unison strings on a 6 string guitar.
- Construction
The construction of a guitar also affects its sound. The type of wood used, the size and shape of the body, and the type of bridge and strings all contribute to the unique sound of a guitar.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
4. Feel
The feel of a guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. The feel of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the size and shape of the body, the weight of the guitar, the neck profile, and the string tension.
6 string guitars are generally lighter and have a smaller body than 12 string guitars. This makes them easier to play for long periods of time and more comfortable to hold. 12 string guitars have a fuller, richer sound than 6 string guitars, but they are also more difficult to play. The increased string tension makes it more difficult to bend and vibrato the strings, and the wider neck can make it more difficult to reach the frets.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the feel of 6 string guitars and 12 string guitars:
| 6 String Guitar | 12 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Body size | Smaller | Larger |
| Neck profile | Narrower | Wider |
| String tension | Lower | Higher |
5. Price
Price is an important factor to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. 6 string guitars are generally less expensive than 12 string guitars. This is because 12 string guitars have more strings, which require more materials and labor to produce. Additionally, 12 string guitars often have more elaborate construction features, such as wider necks and deeper bodies, which can also add to the cost.
- Materials
The type of wood used to make a guitar can have a significant impact on its price. 6 string guitars are often made from less expensive woods, such as mahogany and spruce, while 12 string guitars are often made from more expensive woods, such as rosewood and maple.
- Construction
The construction of a guitar also affects its price. 12 string guitars have more complex construction than 6 string guitars, which can add to the cost. For example, 12 string guitars often have wider necks and deeper bodies, which require more wood and labor to produce.
- Brand
The brand of a guitar can also affect its price. Some brands are known for producing high-quality guitars, while others are known for producing more affordable guitars. 12 string guitars from well-known brands are often more expensive than 12 string guitars from lesser-known brands.
- Features
The features of a guitar can also affect its price. 12 string guitars with additional features, such as cutaways and electronics, are often more expensive than 12 string guitars without these features.
Ultimately, the price of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the materials, construction, brand, and features. When choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar, it is important to consider your budget and the features that are important to you.
6. Playability
Playability is an important factor to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. Playability refers to how easy a guitar is to play, which can be affected by a number of factors, including the size and shape of the guitar, the neck profile, the string tension, and the overall weight of the guitar.
- String tension
The string tension of a guitar is an important factor that affects playability. 12 string guitars have higher string tension than 6 string guitars, which can make them more difficult to play, especially for beginners. The higher string tension can make it more difficult to bend and vibrato the strings, and it can also make it more difficult to fret the notes cleanly.
- Neck profile
The neck profile of a guitar is another important factor that affects playability. 12 string guitars often have wider necks than 6 string guitars, which can make them more difficult to play for people with smaller hands. The wider neck can make it more difficult to reach the frets, and it can also make it more difficult to play chords.
- Body size and shape
The body size and shape of a guitar can also affect playability. 12 string guitars often have larger bodies than 6 string guitars, which can make them more difficult to play for people with smaller frames. The larger body can also make it more difficult to reach the frets, and it can also make the guitar more difficult to hold.
- Overall weight
The overall weight of a guitar can also affect playability. 12 string guitars are often heavier than 6 string guitars, which can make them more difficult to play for long periods of time. The heavier weight can also make the guitar more difficult to hold, and it can also make it more difficult to move around the guitar.
Ultimately, the playability of a guitar is a matter of personal preference. Some guitarists prefer the feel of a 12 string guitar, while others prefer the feel of a 6 string guitar. It is important to try out both types of guitars before making a decision.
7. Versatility
Versatility is an important factor to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. A versatile guitar is one that can be used to play a wide variety of genres of music. 6 string guitars are generally more versatile than 12 string guitars, as they can be used to play everything from rock to country to blues to jazz. 12 string guitars, on the other hand, are better suited for genres such as folk, rock, and country.
One of the main reasons why 6 string guitars are more versatile than 12 string guitars is that they are easier to play. The lower string tension and narrower neck make them easier to fret and bend the strings. This makes them a good choice for beginners and for guitarists who want to be able to play a variety of styles of music.
12 string guitars, on the other hand, have a fuller, richer sound than 6 string guitars. This makes them a good choice for genres of music that require a more lush sound, such as folk, rock, and country. However, the higher string tension and wider neck make them more difficult to play, which may be a turnoff for some guitarists.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the versatility of 6 string guitars and 12 string guitars:
|
6 Strin g Guitar | 12 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Versatility | More versatile | Less versatile |
| Genres of music | Can be used to play a wide variety of genres | Better suited for genres such as folk, rock, and country |
| Ease of playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier sound | Fuller, richer sound |
8. Genres
The genre of music you want to play is an important factor to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. 6 string guitars are more versatile and can be used to play a wider variety of genres, while 12 string guitars are better suited for certain genres, such as folk, rock, and country.
One of the main reasons why 6 string guitars are more versatile is that they have a brighter, twangier sound. This sound is well-suited for genres such as rock, blues, and pop. 12 string guitars, on the other hand, have a fuller, richer sound. This sound is well-suited for genres such as folk, rock, and country.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the genres that are best suited for 6 string guitars and 12 string guitars:
| 6 String Guitar | 12 String Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Genres | Rock, blues, pop | Folk, rock, country |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier | Fuller, richer |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
9. Learning curve
The learning curve for 6 string guitar and 12 string guitar is different. 6 string guitar is easier to learn than 12 string guitar. This is because 6 string guitar has fewer strings and a narrower neck. The wider neck of the 12 string guitar can make it more difficult to reach the frets, and the increased string tension can make it more difficult to bend and vibrato the strings.
- Complexity of fretting
Fretting is one of the most important basic techniques in guitar playing. It involves using your fingers to press down on the strings behind the frets, which changes the pitch of the notes. A 12 string guitar has more strings than a 6 string guitar, which means that there are more frets to learn and more complex fingerings to master.
- Difficulty of chord transitions
Chord transitions are another important basic technique in guitar playing. They involve moving from one chord to another smoothly and quickly. The wider neck of the 12 string guitar can make it more difficult to reach the different frets that are required for different chords, and the increased string tension can make it more difficult to press down on the strings with enough force to produce a clear sound.
- Challenges of strumming
Strumming is a technique that is used to create a rhythmic sound by repeatedly brushing the strings with a pick or your fingers. The wider neck of the 12 string guitar can make it more difficult to reach the strings with the pick or your fingers, and the increased string tension can make it more difficult to strum the strings with enough force to produce a clear sound.
- Endurance and finger strength
Playing the 12 string guitar requires more endurance and finger strength than playing the 6 string guitar. This is because the increased string tension requires more force to press down on the strings, and the wider neck requires more stretching to reach the different frets. If you are not used to playing the guitar, you may find that your fingers and forearms get tired more quickly when playing the 12 string guitar than when playing the 6 string guitar.
Overall, the learning curve for 12 string guitar is steeper than the learning curve for 6 string guitar. This is because the 12 string guitar has more strings, a wider neck, and higher string tension. If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you start with a 6 string guitar before moving on to a 12 string guitar.
10. Maintenance
Maintenance is an important aspect of owning any guitar, but it is especially important for 6 and 12 string guitars. These guitars have more strings and a more complex construction than other types of guitars, which means that they require more care and attention to keep them in good playing condition.
- Cleaning
One of the most important maintenance tasks is cleaning your guitar. This involves wiping down the body and neck of the guitar with a clean, soft cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. You should also clean the strings with a string cleaner to remove any buildup of dirt or grime.
- String changes
Another important maintenance task is changing the strings. Strings can become worn and stretched over time, which can affect the sound and playability of your guitar. It is important to change your strings regularly, especially if you play your guitar frequently.
- Adjusting the truss rod
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the neck relief, which is the amount of curvature in the neck. The neck relief can affect the playability of your guitar, so it is important to adjust it correctly.
- Setting the intonation
The intonation of a guitar is the accuracy of the notes that are played at different frets. It is important to set the intonation correctly so that your guitar plays in tune. You can set the intonation yourself using a tuner or you can take your guitar to a qualified guitar technician to have it done.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help to keep your 6 or 12 string guitar in good playing condition for many years to come.
11. Personal preference
When it comes to choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar, personal preference plays a significant role. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best guitar for you will depend on your individual needs and playing style. Here are some of the key factors to consider when making your decision:
- Sound
The sound of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a 6 string guitar and a 12 string guitar. 6 string guitars typically have a brighter, twangier sound, while 12 string guitars have a fuller, richer sound. Ultimately, the best way to decide which sound you prefer is to try out both types of guitars and see which one you like better.
- Feel
The feel of a guitar is another important factor to consider when making your decision. 6 strin
g guitars typically have a narrower neck and lower string tension than 12 string guitars. This makes them easier to play, especially for beginners. However, some guitarists prefer the feel of a wider neck and higher string tension, as it can give them more control over the guitar. - Playability
The playability of a guitar is also an important factor to consider. 6 string guitars are generally easier to play than 12 string guitars, as they have fewer strings and a narrower neck. This makes them a good choice for beginners and for guitarists who want to be able to play a variety of genres of music.
- Versatility
The versatility of a guitar is another important factor to consider. 6 string guitars are more versatile than 12 string guitars, as they can be used to play a wider variety of genres of music. 12 string guitars are better suited for genres such as folk, rock, and country.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer. Consider the factors above to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
FAQs
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions regarding the choice between 6 and 12 string guitars, providing informative answers based on objective factors and expert opinions.
Question 1: Which guitar is better for beginners, 6 or 12 string?
For beginners, a 6 string guitar is generally recommended. It is easier to play due to its narrower neck, lower string tension, and fewer strings. These factors make it more comfortable and less challenging to learn basic chords and techniques.
Question 2: Which guitar produces a brighter sound, 6 or 12 string?
6 string guitars typically produce a brighter, twangier sound. This is because they have fewer strings, which results in less overtones and harmonics. The brighter sound is often preferred for genres like rock, blues, and pop.
Question 3: Which guitar is more versatile, 6 or 12 string?
6 string guitars are more versatile and can be used to play a wider range of genres, including rock, blues, pop, folk, and country. 12 string guitars have a more specialized sound that is better suited for genres like folk, rock, and country.
Question 4: Which guitar is easier to play, 6 or 12 string?
6 string guitars are generally easier to play than 12 string guitars. They have a narrower neck, lower string tension, and fewer strings, making them more comfortable and less physically demanding to play.
Question 5: Which guitar is better for fingerpicking, 6 or 12 string?
Both 6 and 12 string guitars can be used for fingerpicking, but 6 string guitars are generally preferred. The narrower neck and lower string tension make it easier to execute fingerpicking patterns and achieve a clear, articulate sound.
Question 6: Which guitar is more expensive, 6 or 12 string?
12 string guitars are generally more expensive than 6 string guitars. This is because they require more materials, labor, and craftsmanship to build. The additional strings, wider neck, and more complex construction contribute to the higher cost.
Remember, the choice between a 6 and 12 string guitar ultimately depends on your individual preferences, playing style, and the genres of music you intend to play.
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Tips for Choosing Between a 6 vs 12 String Guitar
Selecting the right guitar can enhance your musical journey. Here are some valuable tips to guide you in choosing between a 6 and 12 string guitar.
Tip 1: Consider the Sound and Genre
The number of strings significantly impacts the guitar’s sound. A 6 string guitar produces a brighter, twangier sound, while a 12 string guitar offers a fuller, richer sound with more overtones and harmonics. Consider the genres of music you intend to play and choose the guitar that best complements those styles.
Tip 2: Evaluate Playability and Comfort
Playability is crucial for both beginners and experienced guitarists. A 6 string guitar is generally easier to play due to its narrower neck and lower string tension. A 12 string guitar has a wider neck and higher tension, which can require more finger strength and dexterity. Choose the guitar that feels comfortable and allows you to play effortlessly.
Tip 3: Assess Versatility and Range
The versatility of a guitar determines its suitability for various genres. A 6 string guitar is more versatile and can be used to play a wider range of styles, from rock and blues to pop and folk. A 12 string guitar has a more specialized sound that is particularly suited for genres like folk, rock, and country.
Tip 4: Consider Technical Differences
Beyond the sound and playability, there are technical differences to consider. A 12 string guitar requires more frequent tuning due to the increased string tension. Additionally, the wider neck of a 12 string guitar may require adjustments to your playing technique and finger positioning.
Tip 5: Determine Your Budget and Preferences
The price of a guitar can vary depending on factors such as brand, materials, and features. 12 string guitars tend to be more expensive than 6 string guitars due to their more complex construction. Ultimately, choose the guitar that fits your budget and personal preferences.
Summary:
Choosing between a 6 and 12 string guitar involves considering factors such as sound, playability, versatility, technical differences, and personal preferences. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your musical journey.
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Conclusion
The choice between a 6 and 12 string guitar is a matter of personal preference and musical goals. Each type of guitar offers unique advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and playing style.
If you are a beginner, a 6 string guitar is a good choice due to its ease of playability and versatility. If you are looking for a fuller, richer sound and are willing to put in the extra effort to learn and play a 12 string guitar, it can be a rewarding experience. Ultimately, the best way to decide which guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one feels and sounds the best to you.
