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String tension- first tuning

I have just completed my second build and am working on my third, so i am still very new to all this...

My question is how to initially tune the guitar when adding strings for the first time. I tightened them untill enough slop was gone so that the tuner(clip-on vibration style) would register a note and then continued tightening until i reached the desired note, in my case GDg... I used a set of strings from CBGitty that are made for this tuning at this length (24")...

Just seems like the strings are too loose set like this, but i am afraid that if i try go up an entire octave i will be in danger of breaking the strings...the guitar is playable and stays in tune but takes a super soft touch to use slide(which i am a complete beginner with) and also the accoustic volume is disappointing on one of the builds

I know i can use a relative tuning above the GDg but want to make sure i have some consistantcy across my builds.

Anbody have any advice or knowledge about how to know if the tension is correct?

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Permalink Reply by swampapple slim on August 7, 2011 at 12:46pm

what scale is it/shorter ones need a bit bigger dia. strings i got some gittys key g lengyh fine

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Permalink Reply by David "Dr. Dave" Davies on August 7, 2011 at 1:22pm

Compare your tuning to another guitar, or to a free online tuner. My guess is you are an octave low.

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Permalink Reply by Keni Lee Burgess on August 7, 2011 at 8:23pm

Here is a chart of all 13 different keys.

http://www.cigarboxnation.com/photo/13-keys?context=user

Considering you are trying to tune using tones 1 - 5 - 1 from the major scale, you can simply refer to the chart.

For example: if GDG is too loose, try going up to the Key of Ab (Ab - Eb - Ab) or higher to Key of A (A - E - A)

If GDG is too tight, try lower to Key of F# (F# - C# - F#) or lower to Key of F (F - C - F)

Due to the fact, the intervals are relatively the same between the strings (1 - 5 - 1) all the finger positions on the fingerboard will be the same . Only the performance key changes.

I hope this info offers a solution.

Enjoy your practice, Keni Lee