#1
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alternate strings
I want to approximate the sound of a baritone uke, and would like more complex inner voicings, while avoiding having to transpose.
To accomplish this I am considering a 6- string (nylon) 3/4 size guitar (full size would of coarse be okay, also); using the upper note strings of a 12 string configuration (ie. E,A,D,G @ 8va; BE @ natural tuning) Has anyone tried this? Instead of resorting to use of (lower) wound strings is it preferable to use 'close' strings atlernately tuned ie third string from bottom would use an upper E string flattened to D or for second lowest string use the G sharpened to A )(or B flattened to A) or is there something like a banjo string that is more suitable? Does this also seriously compromise neck tension? |
#2
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Alternate Strings - answering my own questions
With no apologies: I am primarily a multi-keyboard player with a
background including string-bass and bass guitar. I am not a virtuoso 6/12-stringer but can comp some rhythm. Also, while jamming on keys I can usually follow the guitars by watching their hands. I have a Jay Junior that is brighter and slightly more comfortable for my hands so I opted to experiment on my other acoustic which incidentally has had good intonation on the neck and good tuning stability Guitar: Eterna EF-31 (commissioned by Yamaha for Costco) original strings - metal replaced with nylon strings had to adapt for different bridge mounting removed small metal spools from metal strings tied knot on nylon string and poked it through hub of spool to anchor base of string three top strings - used normal prescribed strings (G B E) [ I would have liked to 8va the G but did not know about a viable solution ]. D - used high E (1st) tuned sharp A - used G (3rd) tuned sharp E - from a twelve-string set used the 8va (wound) string I wanted to stay with the non-wound coverings as much as possible to replicate a 'plunky' sound also I thought it a better process when opting for alternate strings to use the sharpened string as opposed to a looser, flattened choice Results: It does what I hoped it would do. It sounds like a lower pitched uke, however to no surprise, the sound is quite a bit subdued in timbre and volume. The tuning stability is improving but has not quite settled yet. My main ambition with this project is to reduce the redundancy quotient while playing accompaniment to other guitar(ists), particularly those with limited playing chops, chord knowledge and imagination. The alternate- voiced guitar will counter-act this to some degree. Another way of putting it: I refer to some gatherings as 'camp-fire-style' playing, where you may have multiple guitarists playing 'Take It Easy' [Eagles] [or any Skynyrd tune] with everyone using same chord voicings and strumming patterns, which results in not very interesting playing. Even without adjusting how you play this guitar will result in a different sound. dc |