New to 12-stringers

[fatcat]

I'm currently using the Ernie Ball # 2230 sets on my 660-12 MB and 370-12 RM. Quite happy with the results.

[iiipopes]

Scott, I have owned two Rickenbacker 12 strings and the findings that you have reported are consistent with mine. A good setup with high quality strings works!

Peter, thanks. Since I prefer the light gauge strings on a 12-string, I assemble my own set from singles to get the intonation and feel to my liking for each pair. Here's the kicker: I even ordered a set of stamped-nickel mandolin bushings from Stew Mac, trimmed the collars to fit so they aren't visible, and installed them on the lateral tuners of my 360-12 to provide smoother tuning and eliminate any binding of the tuner posts; and then I ordered a bridge saddle blank from RIC and custom-filed an offset saddle so the unison and octave low E strings, being different core diameters with different stretch and offset characteristics, would intonate properly.

[stsang]

I'm currently using the Ernie Ball # 2230 sets on my 660-12 MB and 370-12 RM. Quite happy with the results.

Those are super light strings! 8-8, 10-10, 14-8, 24w-11, 32-17, 40-22w Glad to hear they work for you!

[stsang]

Since I prefer the light gauge strings on a 12-string, I assemble my own set from singles to get the intonation and feel to my liking for each pair. Here's the kicker: I even ordered a set of stamped-nickel mandolin bushings from Stew Mac, trimmed the collars to fit so they aren't visible, and installed them on the lateral tuners of my 360-12 to provide smoother tuning and eliminate any binding of the tuner posts; and then I ordered a bridge saddle blank from RIC and custom-filed an offset saddle so the unison and octave low E strings, being different core diameters with different stretch and offset characteristics, would intonate properly.

That's taking things to a whole new level! Can you share the string gauges of your custom set? Thanks.

[iiipopes]

Since I prefer the light gauge strings on a 12-string, I assemble my own set from singles to get the intonation and feel to my liking for each pair. Here's the kicker: I even ordered a set of stamped-nickel mandolin bushings from Stew Mac, trimmed the collars to fit so they aren't visible, and installed them on the lateral tuners of my 360-12 to provide smoother tuning and eliminate any binding of the tuner posts; and then I ordered a bridge saddle blank from RIC and custom-filed an offset saddle so the unison and octave low E strings, being different core diameters with different stretch and offset characteristics, would intonate properly.

That's taking things to a whole new level! Can you share the string gauges of your custom set? Thanks.

Sure!
My custom set of D'Addario XL:
9-9 11 1/2-11 1/2 17w-8 22w-10 30w-13 40w-20w.

Occasionally, if I'm playing a lot, I'll change the D A E pairs to:
24w-10 32w-14 42w-22w (the unisons are a standard electric 9-gauge set);
and if I can't get a 17w, I'll use an 18w for the unison G.

Here's the kicker: the unison half of this set, 9 11 1/2 17w 22w 30w 40w when tuned up four frets to G#-D#-B-F#-C#-G# on my 320 make it into a great "terz" guitar: bright, light, but a different flavor of jangle.

[stsang]

Thanks Scott! Lots of great information to digest.

[kiramdear]

A setup makes ALL the difference between, "What's so special about Rickenbacker 12s?", and "Holy Cow! Now I get it!". Ask Kira, John Ashfield, et al...

Mine plays as easily as my sixers. Easy action and I can even get away with some moderate bending. I could play it all night. Many thanks to Paul for this setup.

[manta]

Yea, me too. I get the old "12-strings are only good for some songs" but I think they're great for rhythm on most rock, folk and even blues songs. Nice, full background sound works well with a good, driving bass and insane drummer. And with nice, low RIC action in a proper set-up, you can launch into some very unique solos. Get your RIC the way you want it and the sky is the limit.

[fatcat]

Yea, me too. I get the old "12-strings are only good for some songs" but I think they're great for rhythm on most rock, folk and even blues songs.

I did exactly that for a year or so,with the 370-12 RM.Leads on the 12 string songs, and rhythm on all the rest.Only took one guitar to the jobs.

As to bending ,the 2230's allow that without pain. I can make"What's Happening " sounds like the record, and no sore finners.

[Tubescreamer]

The D'Addario 12-string set comes in these gauges:

10-10
13-13
17-08
26-12
36-18
46-26

The 17 "low G" and 18 "high A" are not wound strings.

I was getting some really sour sounding chords, and just kept retuning.

After replacing these two strings with wound 18s, the problem is solved.

I love this guitar and the noise it makes.

Thanks guys for all of the advice!

[bowser2533]

The thomastic invelds custom set flatwownds from pick of the rics is the only way to fly. These strings sound great,stay in tune.and the intonation is right on. I tried every brand on the market for my 360/12 and these are it for me. Talk to Chris at pick of the rics and he will b glad to answer any questions you may have. Believe me its worth it.Gary

[Folkie]

The thomastic invelds custom set flatwownds from pick of the rics is the only way to fly. These strings sound great,stay in tune.and the intonation is right on. I tried every brand on the market for my 360/12 and these are it for me. Talk to Chris at pick of the rics and he will b glad to answer any questions you may have. Believe me its worth it.Gary

+ 1!!!

[JakeK]

The thomastic invelds custom set flatwownds from pick of the rics is the only way to fly. These strings sound great,stay in tune.and the intonation is right on. I tried every brand on the market for my 360/12 and these are it for me. Talk to Chris at pick of the rics and he will b glad to answer any questions you may have. Believe me its worth it.Gary

+ 1!!!

+2

[Kingbreaker]

Yes, use your 12 for more than the stereotypical!

Back when I had a 660/12 I experimented a lot with it. With a moderate amount of crunch, it sounded more in-your-face than any guitar I have ever heard. The tone was H_U_G_E. I honestly believe a good player could use them for metal leads with good results. Blues-based "hard rock" is actually harder because of bending issues.

[Dr_Jangles]

First and foremost, greetings to everybody on the forum as this is my first post!

I've had the unique privilege to acquire my first Rickenbacker 12 from a veteran member of the forum and all the information concerning strings and set-up has been very informative.

I'm actually considering sending her up to Chris at Pick of the Ricks for set-up with their custom TI strings. I usually have no problem setting up my own guitars but since its my first, I really want it to be done properly. Your first should always be special right?

Hello again to everybody and if you would like to take a peak at my very first 12, its on the register. Turquoise 660-12 serial 0236144. I've fallen in love with my first and see a wonderful musical union ahead...

Cheers,

Eric