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Strings vs tuning

I seem to be having some difficulty matching the string I use to the key I tune in. I appear to be picking strings that can't be tuned to a particular key without breaking

For example, I have been using .046, .036, .026 for my three stringers. Is there a key that I SHOULD be tuning to or a key that I can't use because the strings won't handle it?

Am I making sense?

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Permalink Reply by Dave V on August 28, 2009 at 2:13pm

I've seen charts online that give you string tension vs. tuning. You can use these to custom match a string to your desired scale length and tuning if you don't use a stock scale length. Just recalculate using your scale length and the desired tension (found on the string chart) to figure out what gauge string you will need. Your best sound is typically somewhere just below the breaking point of the string. If you tune lower, the string loses tension, gets floppy, and the sound suffers.

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Permalink Reply by Dave V on August 28, 2009 at 2:50pm

That's the only way I can get that lovely high pitched "tingggg" sound. Of course, I can only play that note once.

tinyguitars said:

I would have to agree completely with David. Typically the strings don't sound as good AFTER they break. ;)

David VanVranken said:
Your best sound is typically somewhere just below the breaking point of the string.

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Permalink Reply by Dan Sleep on August 29, 2009 at 2:14am

So, when you get that lovely tingggg sound, you are, of course, wearing safety glasses, right?

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Permalink Reply by Keni Lee Burgess on August 29, 2009 at 8:53am

An easy way to figure out string gauges is to compare with a standard guitar. If your CBG has the same scale length between 23" and 24" of a standard guitar it is relatively simple. For instance, if you want to tune a 3 string GDg, use the A, D, and g strings from a medium pack of strings. If the strings are too tight or loose because the scale length is not standard, just adjust the gauges. Maybe this video might help:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX0LEMoFoJU

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Permalink Reply by Dan Sleep on August 29, 2009 at 1:40pm

Thanks Keni, that helps a lot.

So if I am making one that is a 25.5" scale, then I could still use the ADG strings and tune it to GDG?

Keni Lee Burgess said:

An easy way to figure out string gauges is to compare with a standard guitar. If your CBG has the same scale length between 23" and 24" of a standard guitar it is relatively simple. For instance, if you want to tune a 3 string GDg, use the A, D, and g strings from a medium pack of strings. If the strings are too tight or loose because the scale length is not standard, just adjust the gauges. Maybe this video might help:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX0LEMoFoJU