12-string Guitar Strings
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About 12-string Guitar Strings
Nothing refreshes the sound of your 12-string guitar like a fresh set of strings. There are several factors to consider when choosing a new set of strings for your instrument, whether it's your Dano 66-12 electric or your Guild F-512 acoustic. To guide you in your journey, Sweetwater has compiled some tips to help you find the best strings for your guitar and playing style.
Choosing the Best Strings for 12-string Electric Guitar and Acoustic Guitar
String gauge
Gauge is the first thing to consider when choosing your next 12-string set. The gauge of a string signifies its thickness. The higher the number, the thicker the string. The string gauge you select will significantly influence the sound and playability of your instrument.
Are you a beginning 12-string player or a traditional fingerpicker still adapting to the narrowed string spacing? Check out our selection of light-gauge strings, such as 0.011 and 0.012. Lighter strings are generally easier to play because you don’t have to use as much pressure to fret, bend, or strum. Light-gauge strings also emphasize treble notes, which is why they're a favorite for 12-string legend Doyle Dykes.
Heavier strings offer more versatility than light-gauge strings. For acoustic instruments, such as the Balladeer and Songwriter, heavy gauges deliver increased volume and sustain and hold up to hard strumming. For electric instruments, you'll enjoy more defined bass notes and greater tuning stability with a heavy set of 12-string electric guitar strings installed on your 360/12 or Electric XII.
String material
Regarding materials, opt for strings that suit your playing style. We’ve found that 80/20 bronze strings have a bright and clear sound but tend to age quicker than some other strings. Phosphor-bronze strings are a bit warmer than 80/20 bronze and last longer. Folk and fingerstyle players often prefer silk-and-bronze or silk-and-copper 12-string guitar strings, which are known for their smooth tones.
Coated strings
If you want your 12-string guitar strings to last longer between restrings, then have a look at our strings with a protective coating. These strings are more resistant to corrosion and oxidation than standard string sets, so they last longer while remaining playable. Coated strings also tend to be less prone to string squeaks, which comes in handy when stretching for those “Wanted Dead or Alive” intro slides.
For Best Results, Always Invest in a Proper 12-string Set
Tuning and maintaining a 12-string can be challenging enough. Those delicate octave pairs (Ee, Aa, Dd, Gg) and unisons (B, E) only sound their best when all strings are of a complementary size, age, and construction. Don't make things tougher on yourself by scrapping together bits and bobs of traditional sets just to save a buck. Instead, reach for a specialty 12-string set every time you string up. We promise: you'll be happy you did.
Grab Your Next Set of 12 String Guitar Strings at Sweetwater
Looking for more tips on choosing the best strings for your 12-string guitar and playing style? Call our knowledgeable Sales Engineers. We’ll happy to help you find the gauge, material, and durability to take your playing enjoyment to the next level.
What are the most popular brands for 12-string Guitar Strings on Sweetwater.com?
What are the most popular 12-string Guitar Strings on Sweetwater.com?
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Elixir Strings 16152 Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings - .010-.047 12-string Light
5 out of 5 stars 5 reviews
$34.99 -
D'Addario EJ38 Phosphor Bronze 12-string Acoustic Guitar Strings - .010-.047 Light
5 out of 5 stars 3 reviews
$12.99 -
D'Addario XSAPB1047-12 XS Phosphor Bronze Coated Acoustic Guitar Strings - .010-.047 Extra Light 12-string
4 out of 5 stars 3 reviews
$29.99 -
Elixir Strings 11152 Nanoweb 80/20 Acoustic Guitar Strings - .010-.047 Light 12-String
5 out of 5 stars 11 reviews
$30.99 -
D'Addario XTAPB1047-12 XT Phosphor Bronze Coated Acoustic Guitar Strings - .010-.047 Extra Light 12-string
5 out of 5 stars 1 review
$26.99
Why shop 12-string Guitar Strings at Sweetwater.com?
With a massive selection of 12-string Guitar Strings, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about 12-string Guitar Strings, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.
