A wide range of acoustic guitars are available on the market today, from simple 6-string models to more complex 12-string versions.
But what's the real difference between a 6-string and a 12-string?
Let's take a closer look at the key features of each one so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.
6-String Acoustic Guitar
The 6-string acoustic guitar is the most popular type of guitar. It is versatile and can be used for various genres, including country, rock, blues, and jazz.
This type of guitar typically has a lower range than the 12-string guitar, but it can still produce a beautiful sound. If you are a beginner, this is an excellent type of guitar.
12-String Acoustic Guitar
The 12-string acoustic guitar is less common than the 6-string, but it offers a unique sound that can be perfect for specific genres of music.
This type of guitar has a wider sound range than the 6-string because its pairs of strings are tuned in octaves. These pairs of strings can be a bit more challenging to play. If you are looking for a guitar to help you stand out from the crowd, the 12-string might be the right choice.
What’s the difference between a 6-String and 12-String Acoustic Guitar?
You may have guessed it, the main difference between 6-string and 12-string acoustic guitars is the number of strings. The 12-string guitar also typically has a wider sonic range than the 6-string. Both guitars can be used for various genres, but the 12-string might be better suited for specific styles of music.
The 6-string is a great place to start if you are a beginner. No matter which type of guitar you choose, taking guitar lessons can help you learn how to play this instrument.
Guitar Sizes
The 6-string has a narrower neck, while the 12-string has a larger neck. The narrower neck and wider string spacing make the 6-string easier to play for most people.
Tuning
There is also a difference in how they are tuned. The 6-string is tuned in standard tuning. The 12-string is tuned similarly. If you take the 6 strings of a standard guitar and double the strings at the octave in pairs, you have a 12-string guitar.
The doubling at the octave of the 12-string gives it a brighter sound, but it can be more challenging to play.
You will need a different capo for each type of guitar.
If you are a beginner, you might want to start with the 6-string to get used to the standard tuning.
Fret Pressure
To get a clear, ringing tone from a 6-string guitar, the player must use a light touch on the strings. Bending the strings too hard will cause them to go out of tune. On a 12-string guitar, the player may need to use a heavier touch because the pairs of strings create more resistance than a single string.
Playing style
The most significant difference between 6-string and 12-string guitars is the playing style. A six-string guitar is typically played with a pick or with the fingers, while a 12-string guitar is usually strummed.
Sound
The six-string guitar produces a warmer, clearer sound, while the 12-string guitar has a fuller, yet brighter sound. The 12-string guitar is also more challenging to play due to the additional strings.
A six-string guitar may be a better option if you are just starting. Once you have mastered the basics, you can try a 12-string guitar. If you are looking for a challenge or want to add more texture to your music, a 12-string guitar may be the right choice.
Construction differences
The 12-string acoustic guitar is less common than the 6-string, but it offers a unique sound that can be perfect for specific genres of music. This type of guitar has a wider sound range than the 6-string because of its pairs of strings are tuned in octaves. These pairs of strings can be a bit more challenging to play. If you are looking for a guitar to help you stand out from the crowd, the 12-string might be the right choice. The 12-string acoustic guitar is less common than the 6-string, but it offers a unique sound that can be perfect for specific genres of music. This type of guitar has a more comprehensive sound range than the 6-string because its pairs of strings are tuned in octaves.
Can You Play a 12-String Guitar The Same As a 6-String Guitar?
The main difference between 6-string and 12-string acoustic guitars is the number of strings. The 12-string guitar also typically has a more comprehensive sonic range than the 6-string. Both guitars can be used for various genres, but the 12-string might be better suited for specific styles of music. The 6-string is an excellent choice for beginners, while the 12-string might be better for experienced players. Ultimately, the type of guitar you choose should be based on your personal preference and playing style.
If you are a beginner, you might want to start with the 6-string to get used to the standard tuning. The 12-string is tuned similarly. If you take the six strings of a classical guitar and double the strings at the octave in pairs, you have a 12-string guitar. The doubling at the octave of the 12-string gives it a brighter sound, but it can be more challenging to play.
Which One Should You Choose?
The type of guitar you choose should be based on your personal preference, experience level, playing style, and, most importantly, the style of music you want to play. A six-string guitar may be a better option if you are a beginner. Once you have mastered the basics, you can try a 12-string guitar. If you are looking for a challenge or want to add more texture to your music, a 12-string guitar may be the right choice. But be sure to choose the 12-string only if the style of music that you want to play supports it.
Conclusion
Overall, deciding which type of guitar to get depends on many factors. If you want a more straightforward instrument with fewer strings, then the 6-string acoustic guitar is a good choice. If you're looking for a richer, more complex sound, then the 12-string might be a better fit.
Whichever one you choose, make sure to read this post on the steps to learning an acoustic guitar, or find a private instructor who will listen to and help meet your guitar goals, take the time to practice and perfect your craft!
I have always been playing on a 12 strings and never played on a 6. My story is very unusual - many years ago a friend left a 12 strings in my store room but for some reasons he didn't want it back, so I had it and started self-learning it. I'm still playing on this guitar today and enjoy it so much, can't think of a reason why I need to play a 6 strings. I've tried playing other people's 6 strings but it made my fingers painful, because the strings 'cut' into my fingers differently compared with a 12. Life is full of surprises, if my friend wanted the guitar back that day, then I would have never thought about playing the guitar!