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Strings and tuning

Ok...all ready to string my first CBG tonight. I purchased a set of Strings from C.B.Gitty. The set I purchased is the Medium OPEN G set. My early intentions were to tune to DAd. My question is as follows;

Can I tune to DAd with the strings I purchased or do I need to change strings everytime I want to change my tuning...example..switch to GBg..etc..

Also...is there instructions on How to string a CBG..I've looked and had no luck. My Length is 24" from nut to bridge. Do I run the strings and just start to tighten till I get the note I'm looking for on my tuner? Octaves have me a little confused but hoping it will make sense tonight when I start.

Also want to tackle the angle for my compensated bridge...

Looks like nothing is getting done around the house tonight....lol

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Diane in Chicago on November 1, 2011 at 7:32pm

If you use this gizmo: http://www.strothers.com/string_choice.htm and enter each string D, A and d for your scale length of 24" you get:

D 22

A 15

d 11

The Gitty Medium Open G set are, I believe,

17 and

So you'll have to pull those strings a bit tight to get up to DAd. Maybe you settle for CGc.

If you are going to change your tuning a lot, like from D to G, you might need to put on new strings. But most folks around here look at that as an excellent excuse to build another instrument.

As far as the compensated bridge, just plan to make a floating/unattached bridge and you can angle it as needed to get the tuning accurate. Once you've got your instrument built and strung up, post again and someone can guide you through the compensation thing.

Stringing up an CBG is no different than stringing up a guitar. Thread or attach them to your tailpiece and wind them on your tuners. I like to fit the bridge after the strings are on so I can get it just the right height.

Permalink Reply by Jeff Lamer on November 7, 2011 at 7:02pm

Thanks Diane,

I've tuned to DAd and it looks like it works adn sounds good...at least that is what my friends say..lol. I've tested it with my digita tuner adn it follows the notes fairly well. I do plan to build more (of course) but do have a few questions. Is a DAD a common tunning as opposed to DAd. What I am finding is the notes are very high to my liking and only enjoy the sounds near the head i.e the first four frets. I'm hoping to get a cheap amp this weekend.

Does any one know where there is a simple tab and video to learn Bad to the Bone, I would like this to be my first song. What is the common tuning for this?

Here's a Picture...