Experimentation in the field of music has always resulted in terrific innovations. Same can be said about the different variants of guitars. Although initially 6 String Guitars were, and still are, available, it could not fulfill the desires of musicians to achieve greater musical range. That’s how the 12 String Guitars were born. Basically, this variant of guitar is available in the acoustic and electric versions, having twelve different strings, separated in six courses. The whole idea of using a 12 String Guitar is the fact that it can produce a far richer and ringing tone, compared to any other form of guitar. Due to the presence of 2 strings in each course, the chorus effect is natural to the 12 String variant of guitars.

12 String Guitars became popular before the turn of 21st century. The Italians are credited with the invention of this variant of guitars. Slowly, from Europe, 12 String Guitars spread far and wide to different parts of the world, and now holds an important place in contemporary, rock, folk and classical music.

The acoustic variants are more famous when compared to the electric counterpart. The market is overfilled with different brands, selling different types of acoustic strings for 12 String Guitars. Out of all those, Stainless Steel string sets are used commonly. This ensures optimum volume and sustain, as far as the tone is concerned. The crisp and bright sound quality of this type of string is one of the reasons why it is so popular amongst the masses. Many other variants of acoustic strings for 12 String Guitars also exist, like the Bronze and the Phosphor plated Bronze Wound Strings. The basic idea for using Bronze is to extend the life of the guitar and to make the tone warmer. In case you want mellow quality tone, you should opt for Bronze and Phosphor coated Bronze Strings.

Electric 12 String Guitars are available as solid body and semi acoustic. Since one has to exert more pressure on the strings of an Electric 12 String Guitar, it is essential to have the right string material, which can withstand the force, without compromising with the tonal level and sound quality. Nickel plated and pure Nickel Electric Strings are the most common types. This can help produce a vintage and mellow sound. Stainless Steel Strings are also available in the market, but can damage the fret, owing to its rougher texture and hard quality.