Alternative tunings

Mitchrx Posted 2004-10-05 10:13 AM (#176844) Subject: Alternative tunings Joined: December 2003 Posts: 1071 Location: Carle Place, NY As I posted earlier, I keep my 12 string tuned down 2 1/2 steps and use heavy gauge strings. There were some positive responses. I also have medium gauge (.13-.56) on one of my 6 strings that I keep tuned one step lower than standard. I learned about using heavier strings with lower tunings from a Leo Kottke instruction book. Leo does this a lot. My favorite "open" tuning for the 12 string is open E with the heavy strings- B E B E G# B. You can even go lower to open E flat as Leo does on Crow River Waltz from his first album. Anyone else use different tunings? MWoody Posted 2004-10-05 10:32 AM (#176845 - in reply to #176844) Subject: Re: Alternative tunings Joined: December 2003 Posts: 13996 Location: Upper Left USA I have my Custom Balladeer strung with .074"-.013" and tuned BEADF#B. Slap in a .0??" -.074" bass string and used medium gage on the next groove over. SAve the "E" strings for your repair kit. You can safely down tune to ADAF#A with no buzz or issues. I would love to try a Longneck but their about as available as a Mandocello! CWK2 mentioned that some of them Naturals had some unique tunings.