for everyone asking about the song he plays in the intro, it's actually one of his own! really awesome track: We Came As Strangers - Colour Of You (FULL SONG from album Recipe For Adventure)
Thank you Justin. Even if you're a beginner and a 12 string isn't for you its still good to have this knowledge in your head. Keep teaching us like always :)
I just repaired the bridge of my 12 string after 3 yrs sitting in my closet, and I needed to brush up on basic 12 string tuning techniques, and I was overjoyed when I heard that many 12 string players tune 2 semi tones down from standard tuning. What a break for the tension on my guitar, and as a bonus, I can now comfortably sing "Hotel California", so it's less strain on my vocal chords as well! Thanks Justin for posting on the internet and sharing your insights as well as musical expertise.
I have been fingerpicking for 38 years and just bought myself a 12 string guitar and your tip of tuning a whole note down was brilliant, not only does it make playing easier but it also makes my guitar sound better. Good tip and thanks.
I was thinking about doing the same thing on my Taylor 12-string after seeing this video today. Bet it will sounds better, and may help with that B-string tuning issue.
After ~12 years of playing I today got my first twelve string guitar. Never heard something sound so heavenly. Thank you for this video, I left a "like" or "thumbs up" or whatever you like to call it.
*Great video! I've been playing for 55 years (much of it on stage) and I still learned something from you, thanks.* I bought a Martin 12 string last year.
Just bought my first 12 string. Been playing guitar for about 6 years now and this is my first time playing a 12 string. Video is really well done. Easy to understand and follow. Good info. Cheers mate!
Really enjoyed the video PLUS picked up a couple of tips even though I've been using 12's since 1971. Many thanks. In return 1) for some passages you may be better stringing the 3rd pair with unison strings as that means 1st,2nd 3rd courses sound the same for crosspicking etc.2) On some 12's the 6th pair (thickest) can be muddy (Matons definitely not) and I've found some improvement by using a 1st string as the thinnest on the 6th pair and tuning 2 octaves apart 3) one neat way of checking tuning is to hit the harmonic at the 12 fret of the thick string and compare that to the thinner partner PLUS you can check the harmonics against the first string ie B (2nd pair) is 1st string 7th fret or D harmonics (4th pair) is against 10th fret of first string - the harmonics ring one while you can fret/play the 1st string notes. Finally nails - I go once a fortnight to a nail bar and have acrylic overlay put on my right hand nails - works a treat plus do I get some funny looks from other guys who see me inside - worth it just for those alone!. Cheers.
I've been playing guitar off and on since lessons when I was 13. I had a Yamaha 12 string while I was in college, it was very hard to play since I'm sure the action was not correct on it. I'm about to get back in to 12 strings after many years and ordered a Guild F2512E. Really liked your video as a refresher course for me as to the tuning of it.
AWESOME Tutorial!! Thank you so much!! I just purchased my first 12 string and I'm 60 and I can't wait to play like you!!! I was blessed with a guitar when I was 7 years old and played till I was 12. Then I picked up the 6 string about 3 years ago, and I play about an 1-2 hours a day. So I'm really excited to dive into the 12 string!!!
Soon 2 years ago I got my 12 string guitar (as my 2nd guitar after 4 months with a 6-stringed with action higher than trumps forehead), I still look at this video and learn from Justin haha Love ya Justin! More 12-stringed content on the way? ;)
I did not like thumb picks, I was used to finger picking with my thumb nail and Thumb picks were to long for me. So I cut down the pick with cutters and filed down the sides. Works for me.
Ive watched this so many times. And I gotta say, I love hearing you play the song at the start. Its what inspired me to get a 12 string. Managed to track down older 2nd hand Maton. Needed alot of work to get where it is now. But its been well worth the experience for everything its taught me, and all the enjoyment ive had playing it. Thank you for making this video.
Justin: After all these years I finally bought myself a Guild f-2512ce last month. I always wanted a 12 string since I first played one in the 80's . Naturally I said to myself I wonder what Justin has to say about them, and low,and behold you dropped the bomb! I never heared about tunning the #2 B & E strings slightly out of phase;a simply smashing piece of information. Much appreciated...
This video was very helpful. Thanks for posting. My uncle just handed down to me his 1968 Gibson 12 string and I have absolutely no idea how to restring and eventually tune it. The strings on it are about 25 years old.
@@kingrobert1st That's alright, I gave it back to him because it didn't play good. The bridge saddle was warped forward and needed a lot of expensive work.
Thanks Justin, Your one of the few Guitar 'experts' I turn to when I'm looking for some info on how to play Guitar, or a particular song I'm struggling with. Keep up the great content........
Cool, thanks! Have you checked out the full website for all content? www.justinguitar.com/guitar-lessons Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher
The string tension (total) on a 6-string tuned to standard 'E' is about 155 lbs - whereas, the string tension on a 12-string tuned to E is about 250 lbs --- that makes the strings harder to hold down (particularly if you haven't got a strong thumb). In the old days a lot of 12-string players would tune down to 'C#' -- 3 semitones down - Leo Kottke.
Justin i made a derrogotive comment about 5 months about talking too long and easy to play tuts, i was forgetting not everyone can play guitar, You just taght me something about tuning a 12 string by tweaking the top 2 strings slightly out of tune. I appologise mate
Victor Jones that is the dumbest fucking thing I've ever heard. How many incredible bands have their been with guitarists who can't sing. By your logic the only type of guitarist that should exist is a singer songwriter.
3 year guit player here. Finally got myself a yamaha 12er. Pretty excited. Ty Segalls piickathon performance with Cory Hanson really convinced me. So beautiful.
Thanks for this! I just bought a 12 string and I was looking for tips and things I may need to know about it, I already tuned it down! Really appreciate this vid! - Jaycie
Justin, I would like to personally thank your for all your extremely informative youtube videos. You are indeed an asset to youtube and to the guitar community. I have learned so much from your videos and made me enjoy learning/playing the guitar because of your great instructional videos. You are an inspiration. Thank you!!! Gus L.
Have loved 12 string since Rooftop Singers did Walk Right In. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. There are a lot of 12s on commercial tunes that people don't hear but think " they have a good sound". Thanks for a video on a great instrument.
Αll excellent advice for those who are not very familiar with 12 string guitars. A wonderful instrument if you are fully aware of its difficult idiosyncratic nature and character and commited to overcome those difficulties and sound really good even if you only play simple open chords on it. And something I would like to add about the possibilities of a 12 string guitar, is that you can economize on your fingering, if you like. Thus, a triad played on a 12 string, can sound like a full six note chord played on a six string guitar.
Thank you, I follow your courses but I randomly found this video hearing different models of 12 strings. I'm on my way to get myself a 12 string Takamine for Christmas. So excited! 🤩
My uncle eddy passed away about 2 weeks ago, he lived around most of my family in PEI while me and my family are in Toronto, I went to visit last week and on the last day there we went to see my uncle eddy's old home. My great aunts and uncles had told me that they were trying to get rid of all if his stuff. I walked around and looked at all of his instruments as we both had a LARGE interest in music it being his entire life. My great aunts and uncles saw me looking at them and offered me his 12
I just put a down payment on a Taylor 150e 12 string, I appreciate this video as it's my first 12 string that I have owned and the information you provided is exactly what I was looking for. thanks for posting
Wow, Justin! Never having played a 12-string guitar, I had sooo many questions about them, and in this short video you managed to answer them all! Tuning, picking, etc. Thank you!
Thank you, sir! Been enjoying your videos for a while. They are a lasting testament to someone who loves what they do, loves music, and loves sharing his gift. I've been playing 20 years, but the trick to staying good is always being a good student, and you've taught me plenty. Many thanks. Amazingly, never had a 12 string, just played the sweetest one in a store and felt like I had picked up a new kind of magical instrument. I think I must get one, and your walk through makes it much less intimidating to maintain - thank you!
my first guitar i learned on was a 12 string fender acoustic, i taught myself online with Justin's lessons and marty's, it was harder, but it was well worth the frustration in the end.
For E Standard Tuning you'll wanna use really Light Gauge Strings that have a super low tension to make playing the 12 String Guitar Easier like Thomastik AC210 Plectrum Bronze Extra Light 12 String Guitar Strings (those Have Brass Plated Trebles the AC210T Strings have Tin Plated Trebles).
This is a really useful video . My 12 stringer is a dust collector most of the time !! Your comments gave me food for thought ! Particularly about dropping the tuning. Thanks
Justin, as ever you are Da Mang! That's my Yank slang for, well...you get the drift. Just got my first 12 string and you're where I went first for some sage advice on making this lovely lady sing her siren song. Thanks for all you do!
My ibanze Ael2012 is such a beautiful 12 string guitar, to me anyways. It is by far my favorite guitar to play. Its got a built in tuner for easy tuning and a built in pre amp which makes it sound wonderful through my fender pro reverb. I just love playing it.
just got a diy doubleneck 6/12. Never had or tuned a 12 string but have played a few. you've put me at ease on tuning 'er up and I really appreciate it. Man........I'll bet the truss rod'll be sweatin' peach seeds for a loooong time-lol
I think this is funny in a way I ALWAYS play tuned down a full tone and capoed match the other guitars, I got this from a biology teacher in high school( 20 years ago lol) but it seems NOBODY around here ever uses this. Second thing is I agree this is not a beginners instrument but about 2 months into my lessons I picked up my Bio teacher's and found it easy to play and I fell in love so my advice is if you like the sound and want to play go for it you won't regret it!
Justin: I am not used to a 12 String guitar I just got this yesterday. I haven't done a whole lot of fingerstyle on this and I find it a bit awkward. 12:00 Also Justin: Proceeds to play one of the most beautiful noodling I've ever listened to fingerstyle. I love his humility.
I know that it’s late to the show. Ha Thank you for your great Sir. I’ve been wanting a 12 string guitar for some time now and you just answered those questions that needed answering. It appears as though I’ll be getting one for the new year. Thanks again for a great post. All the best Mate! Cheers!!
Thank you Justin, resringed my 12 the other day just couldn't get it tuned, with your help vid tis now in, top guy , n thanx muchly , well explained also
thank you for gettin to my question justin. since Mr. young is your favorite singer , song writer and mine as well, try war of man on your new 12 .it sounds so full . for me it is hard to get all the sound on a 6 cause of the talent involved but the 12 makes all the difference. im glad to see you gettin back into the 12 and hope you do more. thanks agaiin justin
That's fantastic! I was curious about the 12 string. I'm a beginning guitar player but was curious about it and you did a wonderful job of explaining it! Thank you!
Hi Justin, good work. Wish you'd mentioned how great they sound capoed higher up the neck, a bit mandolin-like . The only problem is if you have worn-out or poor quality strings the intonation can be a bit iffy . Try at fret 7 , then play along to Here comes the Sun, Hotel California, Midnight Rambler, Scarboro Fair,& The Sound of Silence for starters . Lucky sod having a Maton! Cheers, Nige .
Most 12 string guitars I’ve played just never seemed to get you to where you would think it would take you, but your 12 string sounds great! I also dig the tune you were playing! Rock on
I have absolutely fallen in love with my 12-string Fender and it most definitely will be my go to. Would it be practical to practice my spider finger warm ups on my 12-string or should I continue to practice it on my 6-string. I will probably be using my 12-string for 90% of my gigs and open mics now. Picking on the 12-stings during the spider exercise feels clumsy. Thoughts?
Well, you still need accuracy and you *will* benefit from it. No use to practice it for hours and hours but putting a bit of accurracy exercises in your practice now and then wouldn't hurt? I reckon you'll be doing mostly chord work so expanding your chord knowledge on a 12 string will help you sounding lush , like this one for example: www.justinguitar.com/guitar-lessons/lush-acoustic-chords-w-drone-strings-1-ca-001 | LievenDV | JustinGuitar Official Assistant
Very nice 12 you've got there. It sounds exceptional and looks fantastic. Congrats!! It's funny you say 12's are not beginner's instruments, because that's exactly what it was for me. When I began playing I just loved the sound of the 12 so much more than any 6-string I had heard, bought one and learned how to use it. I got to be almost as fast tuning it as my 6-string brothers and just as accurate. I learned to play some lead on it as well. I still own several 12's and still play them often.
thanks, been play 12 string many years, alot you show I did know. that way you tune the b's and e's ,wow what a revaluation . when I did that all I could say for a few minutes was cooool !.
A couple years ago I wanted to get a 12 string but its hard to learn about them (Until now, thanks again Justin!) So I think that noone did because there are not that many players/ teachers or resources to give these usefull tips.
As someone who plays a 12 string (my absolute favorite guitar to play), my advice is this. Get it setup professionally by someone who knows 12 strings. Ideally with a low action, but make sure that if nothing else, the strings are all right about the same action. The biggest interest killer in 12 string guitars (and guitars in general) isn't the extra strings, it's the bad setup that was done at the factory. When I was auditioning 12 strings, I play a lot of them. Some were fairly decent from the factory, others were absolute nightmares to play. I had my 12 string setup and it's an absolute gem to play. I've had (non-setup) 6 strings that were harder to play than my 12. Absolutely agree with Justin on his take that this is not a beginner's instrument. However, I fell in love with the instrument on my first day of music class when I was in 1st grade when my teacher did the Country Roads course John Denver put our on her 12 string. It' been a long time, but since then, but if that's the sound you want, there is nothing else like it and it really isn't that much more difficult to play if you have your basic shapes down. My adjustment period took about 20 minutes, but YMMV.
Just got a lovely Ovation 12 string. New to the 12 so this has some nice tips , so many just say oh! Its just double notes but of course it's much more than just that . Your tune btw is awesome. Thank you for all your lessons advice and assistance.
My sister gave me a beautiful Washburn Cumberland which I haven't played. Why? Because I didn't think I could tune it! After watching your video, it's tuned and I'm jamming away! Thanks, JustinGuitar!!
I LOVE my 12-string Takamine F385. When playing with other people, I find a clip on headstock tuner or amp tuner to be indispensable. (A clip on tuner senses neck vibration, unlike a microphone-based tuner.) Nobody wants to hear somebody tell them "Quiet, guys; I have to tune up," while they tweak 12 strings a few times apiece. I find that a $10 Snark, Planet Waves, or Intellitouch tuner can tune a 12-string fast, even in a noisy room.
Thanks for the info Justin. For a great player of the Maton 12-string see John Butler playing Ocean. Actually he has a custom 11-string (the D is a single string).
I don't think 12 string guitar manufacturers would build guitars that would have a problem being tuned to standard tuning. Unless you like tuning down and capoing, I would just tune it to standard tuning. That being said, try experimenting with alternate tunings. They sound great on a 12 string!
Hi Justin, Thank you very much for those tips for the 12 string guitar. very helpful! 4 months ago i got a 12 string Eko guitar and it plays indeed a lot different, it's a bit like beginning at square 1again. but if you got hte tuning right the sound is beautiful! thanks for the video.
Is it ok to use 6 regular strings on a 12-string guitar? No problem that the neck is made for more tension? I've got a nice used 12-string offer that I consider for a beginner nephew but I need to put 6 strings in this case, so would like to be sure that it'll work ok. Thanx!
Muchas gracias por este video!! Es una joya y el tip de que afinador me fue de mucha ayuda también, hace mucho tiempo estaba buscando uno bueno. Buenísimo!
I enjoy your video very much and found it informative. What you said about tuning the B and E strings slightly off is really interesting and may not be as unconventional as some might think. At least two harmonica companies Hohner and Seydel turn their tremolos with the first reed at a standard pitch and the second a tiny bit higher. I also love the sound of your Maton. The octaves are well pronounced. Some 12-strings aren't (including some of the high-end).
![Guitar Techniques - Shaking Neck Vibrato - Guitar Lesson [TE-111]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/AYsnB3tN_hM/mqdefault.jpg)
![Guitar Techniques - Shaking Neck Vibrato - Guitar Lesson [TE-111]](/img/tr.png)
I've only got that song half finished... when it's done and recorded I'll teach it..
Its been 8 years and we’re still waiting 🥺
Firstly, you're an awesome guitarist. That guitar sounds a little fret slappy though. Did you try adjusting the action a little?
writers block😉😉
11 years and counting
for everyone asking about the song he plays in the intro, it's actually one of his own! really awesome track: We Came As Strangers - Colour Of You (FULL SONG from album Recipe For Adventure)
Ante Meridiem 😊
Thank you Justin. Even if you're a beginner and a 12 string isn't for you its still good to have this knowledge in your head. Keep teaching us like always :)
I just repaired the bridge of my 12 string after 3 yrs sitting in my closet, and I needed to brush up on basic 12 string tuning techniques, and I was overjoyed when I heard that many 12 string players tune 2 semi tones down from standard tuning. What a break for the tension on my guitar, and as a bonus, I can now comfortably sing "Hotel California", so it's less strain on my vocal chords as well! Thanks Justin for posting on the internet and sharing your insights as well as musical expertise.
I have been fingerpicking for 38 years and just bought myself a 12 string guitar and your tip of tuning a whole note down was brilliant, not only does it make playing easier but it also makes my guitar sound better. Good tip and thanks.
I was thinking about doing the same thing on my Taylor 12-string after seeing this video today. Bet it will sounds better, and may help with that B-string tuning issue.
After ~12 years of playing I today got my first twelve string guitar. Never heard something sound so heavenly. Thank you for this video, I left a "like" or "thumbs up" or whatever you like to call it.
*Great video! I've been playing for 55 years (much of it on stage) and I still learned something from you, thanks.*
I bought a Martin 12 string last year.
I'll bet that sounds great!
Just bought my first 12 string. Been playing guitar for about 6 years now and this is my first time playing a 12 string. Video is really well done. Easy to understand and follow. Good info. Cheers mate!
I didn't know Norm Mcdonald could play the guitar like that!
Jesus, man... :')
You don't know how hard I laughed.
LOL! I was going to ask him if he was related!
Lmao
Ha ha norm McDonald
Really enjoyed the video PLUS picked up a couple of tips even though I've been using 12's since 1971. Many thanks. In return 1) for some passages you may be better stringing the 3rd pair with unison strings as that means 1st,2nd 3rd courses sound the same for crosspicking etc.2) On some 12's the 6th pair (thickest) can be muddy (Matons definitely not) and I've found some improvement by using a 1st string as the thinnest on the 6th pair and tuning 2 octaves apart 3) one neat way of checking tuning is to hit the harmonic at the 12 fret of the thick string and compare that to the thinner partner PLUS you can check the harmonics against the first string ie B (2nd pair) is 1st string 7th fret or D harmonics (4th pair) is against 10th fret of first string - the harmonics ring one while you can fret/play the 1st string notes. Finally nails - I go once a fortnight to a nail bar and have acrylic overlay put on my right hand nails - works a treat plus do I get some funny looks from other guys who see me inside - worth it just for those alone!. Cheers.
12 strings guitars were created by the gods they sound divine
Octaves in general sound divine
fft2020 But do they djent like 7-string baritone, 8-string, 9-string guitars?
What you are hearing in this video is "Divine Djent". At 12-Strings it just sounds like that.
it's a drone. if you like those you'll LOVE hammered dulcimer!
Not only do I have a 12-string guitar, but I also have a 10-string banjo. The double strings are the sound of the gods.
I've been playing guitar off and on since lessons when I was 13. I had a Yamaha 12 string while I was in college, it was very hard to play since I'm sure the action was not correct on it. I'm about to get back in to 12 strings after many years and ordered a Guild F2512E. Really liked your video as a refresher course for me as to the tuning of it.
AWESOME Tutorial!! Thank you so much!! I just purchased my first 12 string and I'm 60 and I can't wait to play like you!!! I was blessed with a guitar when I was 7 years old and played till I was 12. Then I picked up the 6 string about 3 years ago, and I play about an 1-2 hours a day. So I'm really excited to dive into the 12 string!!!
Soon 2 years ago I got my 12 string guitar (as my 2nd guitar after 4 months with a 6-stringed with action higher than trumps forehead), I still look at this video and learn from Justin haha
Love ya Justin! More 12-stringed content on the way? ;)
I did not like thumb picks, I was used to finger picking with my thumb nail and Thumb picks were to long for me. So I cut down the pick with cutters and filed down the sides. Works for me.
Ive watched this so many times. And I gotta say, I love hearing you play the song at the start. Its what inspired me to get a 12 string.
Managed to track down older 2nd hand Maton. Needed alot of work to get where it is now. But its been well worth the experience for everything its taught me, and all the enjoyment ive had playing it.
Thank you for making this video.
Thank you for making this video. Im thinking of getting a 12 string guitar ive allways loved the way they sound.
Well learn how to play standard 6-string guitar and then play a 12-string guitar
Justin: After all these years I finally bought myself a Guild f-2512ce last month.
I always wanted a 12 string since I first played one in the 80's .
Naturally I said to myself I wonder what Justin has to say about them, and low,and behold you dropped the bomb!
I never heared about tunning the #2 B & E strings slightly out of phase;a simply smashing piece of information.
Much appreciated...
This video was very helpful. Thanks for posting.
My uncle just handed down to me his 1968 Gibson 12 string and I have absolutely no idea how to restring and eventually tune it. The strings on it are about 25 years old.
I'll swap you a new set of strings for the 1968 Gibson! lol
@@kingrobert1st
That's alright, I gave it back to him because it didn't play good.
The bridge saddle was warped forward and needed a lot of expensive work.
Thanks Justin, Your one of the few Guitar 'experts' I turn to when I'm looking for some info on how to play Guitar, or a particular song I'm struggling with. Keep up the great content........
Cool, thanks! Have you checked out the full website for all content? www.justinguitar.com/guitar-lessons
Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher
The string tension (total) on a 6-string tuned to standard 'E' is about 155 lbs - whereas, the string tension on a 12-string tuned to E is about 250 lbs --- that makes the strings harder to hold down (particularly if you haven't got a strong thumb).
In the old days a lot of 12-string players would tune down to 'C#' -- 3 semitones down - Leo Kottke.
Justin i made a derrogotive comment about 5 months about talking too long and easy to play tuts, i was forgetting not everyone can play guitar, You just taght me something about tuning a 12 string by tweaking the top 2 strings slightly out of tune.
I appologise mate
anthony jonson And you sir are very ignorant, have a nice day
anthony jonson He apologized, there is no reason for that whatsoever.
character development right here
Victor Jones that is the dumbest fucking thing I've ever heard. How many incredible bands have their been with guitarists who can't sing. By your logic the only type of guitarist that should exist is a singer songwriter.
Victor Jones that's good advice if the only thing you want out of guitar is to go to parties and play 3 chord pop songs to impress your dumb friends
3 year guit player here. Finally got myself a yamaha 12er. Pretty excited. Ty Segalls piickathon performance with Cory Hanson really convinced me. So beautiful.
Please release a how to video on how to play that song at the beginning!
Winsto25 RUclips has playback option to slow it down.
What song do you play when you first demonstrate finger style? It sounds awesome.
Gorgeous guitar Justin.
I've just bought a Yamaha DW-4S-12 second-hand and it's now tuned in thanks to your lesson.
My uncle passed away about a month ago. I got his 12-string today
How you getting on man?
Sorry to hear about your uncle 😢 he'll be remembered as you play this gift.
Lucky fella your uncle was
This is 8 years later. I hope you're well and playing that 12 string
@@christys.5024 I Hope that it wasn't Haunted....he's not answering anyone back..poor guy..and he seemed so Happy to get it!
Thanks for this! I just bought a 12 string and I was looking for tips and things I may need to know about it, I already tuned it down! Really appreciate this vid! - Jaycie
“A hi-yee-anna lowee, then a-hi-a anna-low-a, a-hi-dee anna low-dee, then it’s a-hi-gee anna low-gee!”
One of my favorite Irish folk songs.
Please, more 12 string tutorials. :) love and light...
It's very nice to hear Leo Kottke mentioned, for some reason he seems to be overlooked and he's such a incredible 12 string guitar player.
J2013 Check out Dick Rosmini if you really want to learn something.
Kottke’s better at 12 than most people at 6😂
Justin, I would like to personally thank your for all your extremely informative youtube videos. You are indeed an asset to youtube and to the guitar community. I have learned so much from your videos and made me enjoy learning/playing the guitar because of your great instructional videos. You are an inspiration. Thank you!!! Gus L.
Have loved 12 string since Rooftop Singers did Walk Right In. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. There are a lot of 12s on commercial tunes that people don't hear but think " they have a good sound". Thanks for a video on a great instrument.
Αll excellent advice for those who are not very familiar with 12 string guitars. A wonderful instrument if you are fully aware of its difficult idiosyncratic nature and character and commited to overcome those difficulties and sound really good even if you only play simple open chords on it. And something I would like to add about the possibilities of a 12 string guitar, is that you can economize on your fingering, if you like. Thus, a triad played on a 12 string, can sound like a full six note chord played on a six string guitar.
Thank you, I follow your courses but I randomly found this video hearing different models of 12 strings. I'm on my way to get myself a 12 string Takamine for Christmas. So excited! 🤩
My uncle eddy passed away about 2 weeks ago, he lived around most of my family in PEI while me and my family are in Toronto, I went to visit last week and on the last day there we went to see my uncle eddy's old home. My great aunts and uncles had told me that they were trying to get rid of all if his stuff. I walked around and looked at all of his instruments as we both had a LARGE interest in music it being his entire life. My great aunts and uncles saw me looking at them and offered me his 12
this guitar sounds Holy
I just put a down payment on a Taylor 150e 12 string, I appreciate this video as it's my first 12 string that I have owned and the information you provided is exactly what I was looking for. thanks for posting
I just bought one. Your in for a treat! Have fun
Wow, Justin! Never having played a 12-string guitar, I had sooo many questions about them, and in this short video you managed to answer them all! Tuning, picking, etc. Thank you!
Thank you, sir! Been enjoying your videos for a while. They are a lasting testament to someone who loves what they do, loves music, and loves sharing his gift. I've been playing 20 years, but the trick to staying good is always being a good student, and you've taught me plenty. Many thanks. Amazingly, never had a 12 string, just played the sweetest one in a store and felt like I had picked up a new kind of magical instrument. I think I must get one, and your walk through makes it much less intimidating to maintain - thank you!
Thank you for this- I'm so grateful you took the time to explain the basics of the 12 string- helped me a lot!
my first guitar i learned on was a 12 string fender acoustic, i taught myself online with Justin's lessons and marty's, it was harder, but it was well worth the frustration in the end.
For E Standard Tuning you'll wanna use really Light Gauge Strings that have a super low tension to make playing the 12 String Guitar Easier like Thomastik AC210 Plectrum Bronze Extra Light 12 String Guitar Strings (those Have Brass Plated Trebles the AC210T Strings have Tin Plated Trebles).
This is a really useful video . My 12 stringer is a dust collector most of the time !! Your comments gave me food for thought ! Particularly about dropping the tuning. Thanks
The best teacher I've ever seen.
Please teach us the Intro...
Justin, as ever you are Da Mang! That's my Yank slang for, well...you get the drift. Just got my first 12 string and you're where I went first for some sage advice on making this lovely lady sing her siren song. Thanks for all you do!
Nice lesson Justin. Video was very informative and you play great. I just ordered my Guild . can't wait to get it.
My ibanze Ael2012 is such a beautiful 12 string guitar, to me anyways. It is by far my favorite guitar to play. Its got a built in tuner for easy tuning and a built in pre amp which makes it sound wonderful through my fender pro reverb. I just love playing it.
just got a diy doubleneck 6/12. Never had or tuned a 12 string but have played a few. you've put me at ease on tuning 'er up and I really appreciate it. Man........I'll bet the truss rod'll be sweatin' peach seeds for a loooong time-lol
I think this is funny in a way I ALWAYS play tuned down a full tone and capoed match the other guitars, I got this from a biology teacher in high school( 20 years ago lol) but it seems NOBODY around here ever uses this. Second thing is I agree this is not a beginners instrument but about 2 months into my lessons I picked up my Bio teacher's and found it easy to play and I fell in love so my advice is if you like the sound and want to play go for it you won't regret it!
Just bought a 12 string and this video was a godsend, cheers Justin!
Justin: I am not used to a 12 String guitar I just got this yesterday.
I haven't done a whole lot of fingerstyle on this and I find it a bit awkward.
12:00
Also Justin: Proceeds to play one of the most beautiful noodling I've ever listened to fingerstyle.
I love his humility.
Thank you I never had 12 string now I want one! Good job thank you for all your hard work!
Watching this again for the 2nd or 3rd time...great video...thanks so much!
I know that it’s late to the show. Ha
Thank you for your great Sir.
I’ve been wanting a 12 string guitar for some time now and you just answered those questions that needed answering.
It appears as though I’ll be getting one for the new year.
Thanks again for a great post.
All the best Mate!
Cheers!!
Thank you Justin, resringed my 12 the other day just couldn't get it tuned, with your help vid tis now in, top guy , n thanx muchly , well explained also
thank you for gettin to my question justin. since Mr. young is your favorite singer , song writer and mine as well, try war of man on your new 12 .it sounds so full . for me it is hard to get all the sound on a 6 cause of the talent involved but the 12 makes all the difference. im glad to see you gettin back into the 12 and hope you do more. thanks agaiin justin
That's fantastic! I was curious about the 12 string. I'm a beginning guitar player but was curious about it and you did a wonderful job of explaining it! Thank you!
Glad I found this video....looking at twelve strings..you've answered all my questions...thanks
Hi Justin, good work. Wish you'd mentioned how great they sound capoed higher up the neck, a bit mandolin-like . The only problem is if you have worn-out or poor quality strings the intonation can be a bit iffy .
Try at fret 7 , then play along to Here comes the Sun, Hotel California, Midnight Rambler, Scarboro Fair,& The Sound of Silence for starters .
Lucky sod having a Maton!
Cheers, Nige .
Best practical advice on 12 string guitars right here.
Most 12 string guitars I’ve played just never seemed to get you to where you would think it would take you, but your 12 string sounds great! I also dig the tune you were playing! Rock on
I have absolutely fallen in love with my 12-string Fender and it most definitely will be my go to. Would it be practical to practice my spider finger warm ups on my 12-string or should I continue to practice it on my 6-string. I will probably be using my 12-string for 90% of my gigs and open mics now. Picking on the 12-stings during the spider exercise feels clumsy. Thoughts?
Well, you still need accuracy and you *will* benefit from it. No use to practice it for hours and hours but putting a bit of accurracy exercises in your practice now and then wouldn't hurt? I reckon you'll be doing mostly chord work so expanding your chord knowledge on a 12 string will help you sounding lush , like this one for example: www.justinguitar.com/guitar-lessons/lush-acoustic-chords-w-drone-strings-1-ca-001 | LievenDV | JustinGuitar Official Assistant
@@justinguitar thank you so. Love those lush sounds. There are heavenly. Exactly what I wanted.
Very nice 12 you've got there. It sounds exceptional and looks fantastic. Congrats!!
It's funny you say 12's are not beginner's instruments, because that's exactly what it was for me. When I began playing I just loved the sound of the 12 so much more than any 6-string I had heard, bought one and learned how to use it. I got to be almost as fast tuning it as my 6-string brothers and just as accurate. I learned to play some lead on it as well. I still own several 12's and still play them often.
Just pickup a 12 banger from a pawn shop. It was hard to tune but thanks to you I GOT IT DONE! Thanks man.
What song is that at the beginning ?
The song at the beginning is called The Colour Of You, from my band (We Came As Strangers) first record, Recipe For Adventure.
***** Can we have a lesson on that with the 12 string please?
Such a happy awesome song i really liked it
***** It sounds a bit like "Over The Hills And Far Away". Love it.
Azor Tharion I wouldnt say "Over the hills and far away". It sounds more like "Going to california" :)
What a guy this is, a fountain of knowledge. Thanks Justin
thanks, been play 12 string many years, alot you show I did know. that way you tune the b's and e's ,wow what a revaluation . when I did that all I could say for a few minutes was cooool !.
Very, very cool intro melody you got there! Cheers!
Very nice video! I picked up several tips and tricks. He speaks well and explains things well; first class !
A couple years ago I wanted to get a 12 string but its hard to learn about them (Until now, thanks again Justin!) So I think that noone did because there are not that many players/ teachers or resources to give these usefull tips.
As someone who plays a 12 string (my absolute favorite guitar to play), my advice is this. Get it setup professionally by someone who knows 12 strings. Ideally with a low action, but make sure that if nothing else, the strings are all right about the same action. The biggest interest killer in 12 string guitars (and guitars in general) isn't the extra strings, it's the bad setup that was done at the factory. When I was auditioning 12 strings, I play a lot of them. Some were fairly decent from the factory, others were absolute nightmares to play. I had my 12 string setup and it's an absolute gem to play. I've had (non-setup) 6 strings that were harder to play than my 12.
Absolutely agree with Justin on his take that this is not a beginner's instrument. However, I fell in love with the instrument on my first day of music class when I was in 1st grade when my teacher did the Country Roads course John Denver put our on her 12 string. It' been a long time, but since then, but if that's the sound you want, there is nothing else like it and it really isn't that much more difficult to play if you have your basic shapes down. My adjustment period took about 20 minutes, but YMMV.
Just got a lovely Ovation 12 string. New to the 12 so this has some nice tips , so many just say oh! Its just double notes but of course it's much more than just that . Your tune btw is awesome. Thank you for all your lessons advice and assistance.
Great introductory video to the wonderful world of 12-string guitars. Thanks, mate.
A friend just gave me a 12 string last night. I've always loved the sound. I hope I can play it soon. Wish me luck
Thank you so much! it only took me about 8 minutes into your video to get this thing tuned. very informative!👍
That guitar sounds awesome...
My sister gave me a beautiful Washburn Cumberland which I haven't played. Why? Because I didn't think I could tune it! After watching your video, it's tuned and I'm jamming away! Thanks, JustinGuitar!!
Best guitar teacher by a million miles
Good tips on tuning there thanks Justin!
Do you have any more instructional videos on the 12 string? I am awaiting delivery on my Hybrid Jumbo Flamed Maple 12 string.
I LOVE my 12-string Takamine F385.
When playing with other people, I find a clip on headstock tuner or amp tuner to be indispensable. (A clip on tuner senses neck vibration, unlike a microphone-based tuner.) Nobody wants to hear somebody tell them "Quiet, guys; I have to tune up," while they tweak 12 strings a few times apiece. I find that a $10 Snark, Planet Waves, or Intellitouch tuner can tune a 12-string fast, even in a noisy room.
My first guitar was 12 stringer, can't help which guitar I fell in love with.
should you release the tension of the strings on these guitars when not playing it? does the tension create bad action?
Really good Justin. I just ordered my first 12 string and this has been most helpful. Thanks!
Thanks Justin, just bought a Taylor 12-string, well here go's to time learning how to play it!
Love that song from the album Justin!
Thanks for the info Justin. For a great player of the Maton 12-string see John Butler playing Ocean. Actually he has a custom 11-string (the D is a single string).
That is an excellent song you played. What song is it, and is there tablature available for it??
Man! That thing sounds so f++++ good! SO, that's my dream now, to own a 12-string guitar one day.
+Erlan Hernández i got one, its worth it, so invest
+Erlan Hernández I recently got a Simon & Patrick Songsmith. Very affordable and great playability! Beautiful Sun-burst on mine.
Erlan Hernández After 40 yrs of playing 6 strings, I finally got one as a gift!
I ordered an Ibanez PF1512 12 string and I can't wait to get it. Always wanted a 12 string!
Erlan Hernández Check out the Godin, could be better! Definitely easier to play!
I don't think 12 string guitar manufacturers would build guitars that would have a problem being tuned to standard tuning. Unless you like tuning down and capoing, I would just tune it to standard tuning. That being said, try experimenting with alternate tunings. They sound great on a 12 string!
Hi Justin,
Thank you very much for those tips for the 12 string guitar.
very helpful!
4 months ago i got a 12 string Eko guitar and it plays indeed a lot different, it's a bit like beginning at square 1again.
but if you got hte tuning right the sound is beautiful!
thanks for the video.
Dear Justin,coukd you do a guitar lesson on these kind of licks?
Is it ok to use 6 regular strings on a 12-string guitar? No problem that the neck is made for more tension? I've got a nice used 12-string offer that I consider for a beginner nephew but I need to put 6 strings in this case, so would like to be sure that it'll work ok. Thanx!
I played a 12 yamaha many years and always tuned to A 440. Interesting video, Justin.
Muchas gracias por este video!! Es una joya y el tip de que afinador me fue de mucha ayuda también, hace mucho tiempo estaba buscando uno bueno. Buenísimo!
I enjoy your video very much and found it informative.
What you said about tuning the B and E strings slightly off is really interesting and may not be as unconventional as some might think. At least two harmonica companies Hohner and Seydel turn their tremolos with the first reed at a standard pitch and the second a tiny bit higher.
I also love the sound of your Maton. The octaves are well pronounced. Some 12-strings aren't (including some of the high-end).
That 12 string sounds amazing, great vid!
Justin please teach us what you played in the intro. It was incredible!