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Thread: new string gauges for octave 018T

  1. #1
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    Default new string gauges for octave 018T

    1960 Martin tenor guitar (adj truss rod added) strung octave with: .012, .022, .032, .047 and they feel a bit sloppy and loose. i don't know how much to beef up the next set without putting on too much tension. i'd appreciate hearing what's worked well for you and on what guitar.
    Last edited by dan in va; Apr-26-2019 at 3:26pm.

  2. #2
    Registered User fox's Avatar
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    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    Sorry for my ignorance but what is a 018T?
    I thought that was a Martin 1950s tenor guitar.

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    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    Sorry for leaving out the info, now edited into the original post.
    Last edited by dan in va; Apr-26-2019 at 3:50pm.

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    Registered User fox's Avatar
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    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    Ah ok, it’s just that there is a tenor guitar section on this forum but anyway, you are already on the heavy side.
    Some folk prefer .013 for the E but I personally use 12 20 30 45 on my 23” scale tenors.
    The very popular Blueridge BR40 T is basically a Martin clone although it is quite sturdy in its construction but is often strung with 13 22 32 45 .

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    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    fox - It seemed pretty much a toss up to post here or on the tenor forum, as it's strung octave. The .047 is nickel wound, which has been said to have a little less tension than phosphor bronze strings. I haven't heard if the BR or Martin is the heavier build.

    What are your 23" scale tenors?

  6. #6
    Registered User fox's Avatar
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    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    Well I build tenor guitars but I do have a Blueridge and I often have a few vintage models around too.
    To be honest GDAE is a very popular tuning for tenor guitars.
    Your Martin is a very sort after model and I would not be going to high with the string tension as they are normally strung with around 80 - 85lb total tension.
    A lot depends on your playing style and method, do you use a heavy pick, are you used to 8 strings or do you strum rhythm?
    Here are some of my personal use instruments..

    Click image for larger version. 

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  7. #7

    Default Re: new string gauges for octave 018T

    For GDAE I do 46 32 22 12 or 13, use a .60 pick, and play pretty heavy handedly.

    Thanks,
    Baron
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