Open Tunings and String Gauge

[crazycord]

I play a Gibson J45 in a lot of open tunings, open c, open d, and I am wondering if anyone has tried putting heavier gauge strings on the lower three. I'm thinking it might stay in tune better and have some more volume with better tone.

Thanks!

[royd]

most string companies package a set called bluegrass gauge that is mediums on the lower three and lights on the top, 12-56. That is what I use on my guitars. I'm doing less tuning changes than I used to but still like a little more on the bottom

Also a few companies sell a set aimed at folk who do DADGAD with mediums on the bottom string and top two and lights in the middle. Wyres does one of these sets called the Bensusan set with gauges .013, .017, .023, .032, .042, .056.

[crazycord]

Sounds great thanks! Have you noticed any signs of extra stress on the guitar because of the increased tension?

[royd]

no problems... most modern guitars do fine with up to medium gauge strings and if you're drop tuning, you're decreasing the tension anyway.

FWIW, my main guitar is an 11 year old Lowden with a cedar top that has been wearing bluegrass gauge its entire life and is just fine. It has been in standard tuning probably 85-90% of the time.

[SpringRoll]

Originally Posted by royd

most string companies package a set called bluegrass gauge that is mediums on the lower three and lights on the top, 12-56. That is what I use on my guitars. I'm doing less tuning changes than I used to but still like a little more on the bottom

+1. I've recently switched over to John Pearse Bluegrass PB strings and they are the perfect medium to open tunings. Definitely prefer the bluegrass feel of the top/lower gauge differences.