Sizing Up 12-Strings
How to find your favorite six-course (or fewer) deal.
BY JIMMY LESLIE
Shown here in an L.A. studio circa 1944, Lead Belly often tuned down his 12-string, thereby lowering string tension.
RAY WHITTEN/MICHAEL OCHS ARCHIVES
EVERY ACOUSTIC AFICIONADO needs a 12-string. There’s a magic in coursed string pairs and a distinctive power that Pete Seeger described as “the clanging of the bells.” While reviewing the Taylor 858e LTD 50th Anniversary Grand Orchestra [page 88], I pondered all things 12-string as I don’t currently have one in my collection. I hope these considerations help you as you size up your own 12-string situation.