If you're looking for the best 12 string acoustic strings, it's important to consider certain factors before making a purchase. First and foremost, the gauge of the strings plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of your guitar. Lighter gauges are great for beginners and players who don't mind a more delicate sound, while heavier gauges produce a louder and more robust tone. It's also important to consider the material of the strings, as this can affect the overall sound quality and longevity. Typically, 12 string acoustic strings are made from either phosphor bronze, bronze, or steel.
When choosing the best 12 string acoustic strings, it's important to think about your playing style and the type of music you're interested in. Are you a fingerstyle player who prefers a softer touch? Or are you a strummer who wants a brighter sound? Additionally, you'll want to consider the level of durability you require, as some strings may last longer than others depending on how often you play and the amount of wear and tear you put on your guitar.
If you're still unsure about which 12 string acoustic strings to choose, consider the following questions: What kind of guitar do you have? What are your preferred playing styles? Do you prioritize sound quality or durability? By answering these questions, you'll be able to narrow down your options and find the perfect set of strings to suit your needs.
10 Best 12 String Acoustic Strings
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The product is ideal for acoustic guitar players who prefer a light gauge and warm, bright tone.
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Ideal for acoustic guitar players who want a bright and balanced tone with long-lasting durability.
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The product is ideal for acoustic guitar players who prefer a lighter gauge for a brighter sound.
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Ideal for acoustic guitar players seeking high-quality, bright and balanced sound with a comfortable light gauge.
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5
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Ideal for enhancing the sound quality of 12 string acoustic guitars with light gauge phosphor bronze strings.
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6
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Ideal for acoustic guitar players seeking rich and full sound with long-lasting, quality strings in a convenient pack.
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7
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Ideal for acoustic guitar players seeking a balanced, bright tone with easy playability and long-lasting durability.
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8
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Ideal for acoustic guitars that require a warm, mellow tone and have a light gauge string preference.
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9
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Ideal for acoustic guitar players who prefer a softer touch and warm, mellow sound on their 12-string guitars.
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10
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This product is ideal for acoustic guitar players who prefer light gauge strings with a smoother feel and longer lifespan.
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1. Gibson Masterbuilt Premium Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, Light 12-53
The Phosphor/Bronze-wound Strings are a great addition to any acoustic guitar. These strings are designed to give your guitar a bright attack and sustained warmth, ensuring that your music sounds amazing.
These authentic Gibson strings are proudly made in America and are trusted by musicians around the world. If you are looking for high-quality strings that will enhance your guitar's sound, these are the perfect choice.
The Phosphor/Bronze-wound Strings are precision-crafted to provide a superior playing experience. The phosphor/bronze winding ensures that your guitar has a balanced tone, while the high-quality materials used in the construction of these strings ensure that they are long-lasting and durable.
Whether you are a professional musician or just starting out, these strings are perfect for any skill level. They are easy to install and provide a great sound that will make you want to play for hours on end.
2. Dr Strings Rare – Phosphor Bronze 12 String Acoustictic: Lite
The RARE Acoustic Guitar Strings offer a unique combination of materials to create a warm, balanced and bright tone. The strings are made using a hexagonal high-carbon steel core, wrapped with a phosphor bronze wire. This combination produces a fatter and louder sound with a deep bottom end.
Musicians will be pleased to know that these strings are suitable for all types of acoustic guitars and offer a distinct improvement in tone, depth, and sustain. The RARE Acoustic Guitar Strings are available in a 12-string set with the following gauges: 10/10, 14/14, 24/9, 30/12, 39/18, 48/28.
These strings are designed with durability in mind, ensuring that they last longer than most conventional strings. The RARE Acoustic Guitar Strings are a must-have for any musician looking to get the most out of their acoustic guitar. The warm, balanced and bright tone will take your playing to the next level.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, the RARE Acoustic Guitar Strings are the perfect choice for your acoustic guitar. The combination of materials and gauges make these strings ideal for a wide range of playing styles and genres. So, if you're looking to upgrade your acoustic guitar strings, look no further than the RARE Acoustic Guitar Strings.
3. D'addario Set Acoustic Guitar 80/20 Lite 12str (Ej36)
Experience bold and bright acoustic sound with D'Addario 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings. These precision-wound strings are made with hexagonal high carbon steel core that ensures durability and longevity. The 80/20 Bronze wrap wire provides a crisp projection that fills the room with rich, resonant tones.
The 80/20 Bronze wrap wire was originally created by John D’Addario Sr. and renowned guitar maker John D’Angelico in the 1930s. Since then, this string has been a favorite among guitarists worldwide. Its unique construction gives it a distinctive sound that is perfect for a variety of playing styles.
When you purchase D'Addario 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, you also get the chance to earn reward points through the Players Circle program. Each set of strings comes with a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn points that can be redeemed for merchandise, concert tickets, and more.
D'Addario 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings are made in the USA at the company's New York production facility. Every string is drawn to the company's exacting specifications, ensuring consistent quality and performance. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, these strings are a reliable choice for your acoustic guitar.
4. Sit Strings Gb121046 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, 12-String Light
The 80/20 Golden Bronze cover wrap is a top-quality musical string that will elevate any musician's performance. Manufactured in the U.S.A., these strings are crafted with expertise and precision to provide a bright sound and excellent tone. The round wound construction of the strings ensures that the sound produced is rich, full-bodied, and well-balanced.
One of the most notable features of these strings is their moisture barrier packaging. This unique packaging helps to keep the strings fresh and in optimal condition for longer periods. It ensures that the strings remain free from any environmental factors that may affect their quality and sound.
The 80/20 Golden Bronze cover wrap is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience. The strings are easy on the fingers and have a smooth surface that enhances their playability. The strings' parameters and specifications are carefully crafted to ensure that they are compatible with a variety of musical instruments such as acoustic guitars, mandolins, and banjos.
In addition to their superior construction and quality, these strings are also highly durable. They are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and provide long-lasting performance that any musician can rely on. The 80/20 Golden Bronze cover wrap is an excellent investment for any musician looking for high-quality strings that will enhance their performance and deliver top-notch sound quality.
5. Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Light Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, 9-46 Gauge (P02153)
The 12-String Light Gauge Acoustic Guitar Strings are a top-notch product for guitar enthusiasts. These strings boast a warm, rich tone that is unmatched in terms of projection and clarity. With a gauge of 9-9, 12-12, 20w-9, 26-12, 36-20p, 46-26, these strings are perfect for anyone looking to achieve a full sound on their guitar.
The strings are made of phosphor bronze wound on a hex-shaped, high-carbon steel core wire. This unique design ensures that the strings produce a warm, rich sound that is both balanced and full. The high-carbon steel core wire also provides excellent durability, making these strings a reliable choice for any guitarist.
One of the standout features of these strings is their Element Shield Packaging. This innovative packaging helps to prolong the life of the strings and keep them as fresh as the day they were made. This means that guitarists can enjoy the rich, warm tone of these strings for longer periods of time, without having to worry about them losing their quality.
These strings are proudly made in California, USA, using only the freshest and finest materials available. This ensures that each set of strings meets the highest standards of quality and performance. Whether you are a professional musician or a beginner, these 12-String Light Gauge Acoustic Guitar Strings are an excellent choice for achieving a rich, warm sound on your guitar.
6. Full Spectrum Acoustic Guitar Strings – D'addario Ej16-3d
D'Addario's Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings are the go-to strings for musicians looking for a warm, balanced tone. The strings are precision wound with phosphor bronze wrap wire over a hexagonal high-carbon steel core, providing corrosion resistance and durability.
Originally pioneered by D'Addario in the 1970s, Phosphor Bronze strings have become the standard in acoustic guitar strings. Musicians across all genres have found that the tried-and-true D'Addario acoustic tone produced by these strings is unmatched in its balance and warmth.
In addition to their exceptional sound quality, D'Addario Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings also come with a recyclable VCI bag that includes a code to earn Players Circle points. When you register the code, you'll receive rewards for your purchase.
D'Addario is proud to manufacture their Phosphor Bronze strings in the USA, using only the highest-quality materials and exacting specifications. Musicians can trust that these strings will deliver consistent, reliable performance every time they play.
If you're looking for reliable, high-quality acoustic guitar strings, look no further than D'Addario's Phosphor Bronze strings. With their warm, balanced tone and corrosion-resistant construction, they're the perfect choice for musicians of all skill levels.
7. Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Medium 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings, 11-52 Gauge (P02012)
The 12-String Medium Gauge guitar strings are designed to produce a bright and balanced tone with exceptional projection and clarity. These strings are made using high-quality materials and are perfect for both professional and novice guitarists.
Each string is made of 80% copper and 20% zinc wire that is wrapped around a high-carbon steel core wire. This unique construction ensures that the strings produce a rich and warm sound that is perfect for any genre of music.
The set of 12-String Medium Gauge guitar strings includes six strings with the following gauges: 11-11, 15-15, 24w-10, 30-14, 42-22w, and 52-28. These gauges make them suitable for both rhythm and lead guitar playing.
To ensure that the strings arrive in excellent condition, they are packaged using the Element Shield Packaging technology, which helps to prolong the life of the strings and keep them as fresh as the day they were made. This innovative packaging technology also protects the strings from any moisture or other environmental factors that could damage them.
These guitar strings are made in California, USA, using only the freshest and finest materials. They are designed to provide you with a superior playing experience, whether you are playing in a studio or on stage.
8. D'addario Silk & Steel Acoustic Guitar Strings – Ej35-12 String – Warm, Mellow Tone – Light, 11-47
For those who are looking to enhance the tone and feel of their parlor or vintage guitars, D’Addario Silk & Steel guitar strings are an excellent choice. This set of strings is specifically designed to provide the perfect balance of warmth and mellow sound, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing.
One of the key features of these strings is their low tension and reduced finger noise. This makes them incredibly easy to play, allowing you to bring out the best in your guitar’s sound. The warm and mellow tone of these strings is perfect for those who want a more laid-back sound, and they’re especially well-suited for fingerpicking.
These strings are made with a combination of silk and steel, which provides a unique blend of warmth and brightness. The silver-plated copper windings offer a crisp and clean sound, while the silk and steel core ensures excellent sustain and durability.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, D’Addario Silk & Steel strings come with a recyclable VCI bag that contains a code you can use to earn Players Circle points. This is a great way to reward yourself for making a sustainable choice.
Finally, it’s worth noting that these acoustic guitar strings are made in the USA to exacting specifications. This ensures that you’re getting a high-quality product that’s been crafted with care. Whether you’re a professional musician or just starting out, D’Addario Silk & Steel strings are an excellent choice for enhancing the tone and feel of your guitar.
9. Ernie Ball Earthwood Silk And Steel 12-String Soft Acoustic Guitar Strings, 9-49 Gauge (P02051)
The Earthwood Silk and Steel acoustic guitar strings are a must-have for any guitarist who wants to soften their tone and enhance their playing experience. These strings are expertly crafted to produce a warm and comfortable sound that is sure to please any musician.
What sets these strings apart is the delicate layer of silk wrap that is nestled between the tin-plated, high-carbon steel core and the shiny gold wrappings of 80/20 bronze. This discreet addition softens the tone and touch of the strings, resulting in a pleasing warm and mellowed sound.
The brightness of the 80/20 bronze wrap wire is perfectly coupled with the soft and subtle silk wrap, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the overall sound of the guitar. The gauges of the strings are 9 9, 12 12, 20w 9, 26 12, 36 20p, and 46 26, providing a range of options to suit any playing style.
Each set of Earthwood Silk and Steel acoustic guitar strings is proudly made in California, USA, using only the freshest and finest materials. This ensures that every set of strings is of the highest quality and delivers the best possible sound.
10. Elixir Strings 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings W Polyweb Coating, Light (.012-.053)
The acoustic guitar strings are made with a high-quality 80/20 bronze wrap wire, consisting of 80% copper and 20% zinc. This particular construction produces a warm and robust tone that sounds as if the strings have been played for a long time, yet still retains a remarkably clear mid-range presence.
The strings feature an original POLYWEB Coating, which provides a soft and smooth feel, allowing the player to effortlessly glide their fingers across the strings without any hindrance to playing. The patented coating technology used on these strings offers protection against common corrosion, extending the tone life of the strings for a longer period than any other brand’s coated or uncoated strings. This has been confirmed through an independent Elixir Strings player survey.
The light gauge strings come in a set of six, with the following diameters: .012, .016, .024, .032, .042, and .053. These parameters have been carefully chosen to provide an optimal playing experience for guitarists of all skill levels.
Best 12 String Acoustic Strings FAQs
Are coated or uncoated strings better for a 12 string acoustic guitar?
The choice between coated or uncoated strings for a 12-string acoustic guitar ultimately depends on personal preference and playing style. Coated strings are designed to last longer and resist corrosion, as a protective coating is added to the strings. This can be beneficial for players who play frequently or in humid environments, as uncoated strings can corrode and lose their tone quickly. However, some players may find that coated strings have a slightly duller sound compared to uncoated strings.
On the other hand, uncoated strings generally have a brighter, more vibrant sound than coated strings. This can be ideal for players who want a warmer, more natural tone from their 12-string acoustic guitar. However, uncoated strings may need to be replaced more frequently than coated strings, especially if the guitar is played frequently or in less-than-ideal environmental conditions.
Ultimately, the choice between coated or uncoated strings for a 12-string acoustic guitar comes down to personal preference and playing style. It may be helpful to try both types of strings and see which one sounds and feels better for your playing needs.
Are there any alternative materials for 12 string acoustic guitar strings besides bronze?
Yes, there are alternative materials available for 12 string acoustic guitar strings besides bronze. One popular alternative material is phosphor bronze, which is a variation of bronze with a small amount of phosphorous added. Phosphor bronze strings tend to have a brighter and more articulate tone than traditional bronze strings. Another alternative material is nickel-plated steel, which can offer a brighter and more balanced tone than bronze strings. Silk and steel strings are also an option for those who prefer a softer and more mellow tone. Additionally, there are synthetic materials such as nylon and fluorocarbon that can be used for acoustic guitar strings. It is important to note that each material will offer a different sound and feel, so it is recommended to experiment with different types of strings to find the best fit for your playing style and preferences.
Can you mix and match different brands of strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar?
It is possible to mix and match different brands of strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar, but it is generally not recommended. The reason for this is that different brands of strings may have different tensions and gauges, which can affect the playability and sound of the guitar.
When selecting strings for a 12 string acoustic guitar, it is best to choose a set that is specifically designed for that type of guitar. This will ensure that the strings are balanced and provide the correct tension across all 12 strings.
However, if you do decide to mix and match strings, it is important to pay close attention to the tension and gauge of each string to ensure that they are compatible with each other and with your guitar. It may also be necessary to make adjustments to the bridge and truss rod to compensate for any differences in tension between the strings.
How do you know when it's time to change the strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar?
There are a few signs that it may be time to change the strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar. Firstly, if the strings look visibly dirty or discolored, it may be time for a change. Additionally, if the guitar is not staying in tune as well as it used to, it may be due to worn-out strings. Another sign is if the strings start to feel rough or lose their clarity and brightness in sound. It's also important to keep in mind how often the guitar is being played. If it's being used frequently, then the strings will need to be changed more often than if it's only being played occasionally. Ultimately, it's up to the player to decide when it's time to change the strings based on their own preferences and playing style. A general rule of thumb is to change the strings every 3-6 months, but this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
How often should you change the strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar?
The frequency of changing strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar depends on various factors such as the type of strings used, the frequency of use, and the environment in which the guitar is kept. Typically, it is recommended to change the strings on a 12 string acoustic guitar every 3-6 months, or after every 50-100 hours of playing time, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any signs of wear and tear or damage on the strings such as discoloration, rust, or loss of tone, it is recommended to change them immediately. It is also important to keep in mind that regular maintenance and cleaning of the guitar can prolong the life of the strings and improve their overall performance. Ultimately, the decision to change the strings should be based on the individual player's preference and playing style.
What are the best 12 string acoustic strings for beginners?
When it comes to choosing the best 12 string acoustic strings for beginners, it's important to consider the quality of the strings, as well as their playability and affordability. Some good options to consider include:
1. D'Addario EJ38H Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings: These strings are known for their warm tone and long lifespan, making them a great choice for beginners.
2. Martin MSP7600 SP Lifespan 12-String Acoustic Guitar Strings: With their bright tone and excellent playability, these strings are a popular choice for both beginners and experienced players alike.
3. Ernie Ball Earthwood 2070 12-String Acoustic Guitar Strings: These strings are made from high-quality materials and offer a balanced tone that's perfect for a wide range of playing styles.
Ultimately, the best 12 string acoustic strings for beginners will depend on personal preference and playing style. It's a good idea to try out a few different sets of strings to see which ones feel and sound the best for you.
What gauge of strings is best for a 12 string acoustic guitar?
The gauge of strings that is best for a 12 string acoustic guitar largely depends on personal preference and playing style. However, in general, it is recommended to use light gauge strings for a 12 string acoustic guitar as they are easier to play and produce a brighter tone. Light gauge strings also put less tension on the guitar's neck and body, which can help prevent damage over time.
That being said, some players may prefer medium or heavy gauge strings for a fuller, richer sound. It is important to keep in mind that using heavier strings may require adjustments to the guitar's setup, such as truss rod adjustments or higher action.
Ultimately, the best gauge of strings for a 12 string acoustic guitar is one that feels comfortable to play and produces the desired tone. It may be helpful to experiment with different gauges to find the perfect fit for your playing style and preferences.
What is the best way to clean and maintain 12 string acoustic guitar strings?
To keep your 12 string acoustic guitar sounding its best, it's important to clean and maintain the strings regularly. Here are some tips for doing just that:
1. Wipe down the strings after each use with a clean, dry cloth to remove any sweat, oil, or debris that may have accumulated.
2. Use a string cleaner or lubricant to help remove any dirt or grime that may be stuck to the strings. Apply the cleaner to a cloth and rub it on each string individually.
3. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the fretboard and remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated there.
4. Use a guitar polish to clean the body of the guitar. Apply the polish to a clean cloth and rub it in a circular motion.
5. Be sure to change your strings regularly, as old strings can become dull and lose their tone. How often you should change your strings depends on how often you play and how much you sweat, but a good rule of thumb is to change them every 3-6 months.
By following these tips, you can keep your 12 string acoustic guitar sounding its best for years to come.
What is the difference between phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze strings for a 12 string acoustic guitar?
Phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze strings are two popular types of strings for a 12-string acoustic guitar. The main difference between them lies in their composition and resulting sound.
Phosphor bronze strings are made up of copper, tin, and a small amount of phosphorous. They have a warmer and richer tone, with more emphasis on the midrange frequencies. They also tend to last longer than 80/20 bronze strings due to their resistance to corrosion.
80/20 bronze strings, on the other hand, are made up of 80% copper and 20% zinc. They have a brighter and crisper tone, with more emphasis on the higher frequencies. They are also more responsive and easier to play, making them a popular choice for beginners.
Ultimately, the choice between phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze strings for a 12-string acoustic guitar comes down to personal preference and the desired sound. Some players prefer the warmth and longevity of phosphor bronze, while others prefer the brightness and playability of 80/20 bronze. It may be worth experimenting with both types to find the one that best suits your playing style and sound preferences.
Which brand makes the best 12 string acoustic strings for professionals?
There are several brands that make high-quality 12 string acoustic strings for professionals. One of the most well-known and respected brands is Elixir. Their Nanoweb and Polyweb coated strings are popular among professional musicians for their long-lasting durability and bright, clear tone. D'Addario is another brand that is highly regarded for their 12 string sets, particularly their EXP coated strings which are designed to resist corrosion and retain their tone for longer periods of time. Martin and Taylor are also known for producing excellent 12 string acoustic strings. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal preference and playing style. It is always a good idea to experiment with different brands and gauges to find the set that feels and sounds best for you.