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Topic: 25-1/2 scale length - string questions |
Rob DiStefano
From:
New Jersey, USA
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Posted 21 Feb 2023 10:40 am |
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I want to string up a 25-1/2" scale lap steel for ...
C6th – C E G A C E
Open G – G B D G B D
Open G – D G D G B D
Open D – D A D F♯ A D
Open E – E B E G♯ B E
... what string gauges would be best for each of those five tunings?
TIA!
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David Venzke
From:
SE Michigan, USA
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Rob DiStefano
From:
New Jersey, USA
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Posted 21 Feb 2023 11:07 am
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Been there, viewed that - it doesn't delve into string gauges required per SCALE LENGTH. Big difference between 23" and 25-1/2".
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Cavalier Pickups |
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Noah Miller
From:
Rocky Hill, CT
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Posted 21 Feb 2023 11:14 am
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| Just try the low end of the gauge ranges. Or use a string tension calculator. |
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Jon Light
From:
Saugerties, NY
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Posted 21 Feb 2023 11:20 am
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Can't vouch for the data. But it is there on the internet.
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Dave Mudgett
From:
Central Pennsylvania and Gallatin, Tennessee
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Posted 21 Feb 2023 12:17 pm
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There are string tension calculators that handle different scale lengths in various places. I tend to fall back on this one - https://tension.stringjoy.com/. It's straightforward and quick.
Note that string manufacturers use somewhat different materials and winding techniques, and these produce somewhat different tensions, feels, and sounds from each other, even at the same string gauge. But I make a LOT of custom sets for both non-pedal steel and slide guitar, and I find that the more-or-less equal-tension sets I make using this calculator work well for me.
Generally, I find circa 25-30 pounds per string about right for steel or slide guitar. Depends on the guitar and what sound and feel I'm going for. I've experimented quite a bit on various guitars. I tend to buy bulk strings in a lot of gauges, including in-between gauges one doesn't typically find in pre-made sets. I do not generally find pre-made sets work adequately for me for either nonpedal steel or slide guitar. Obviously, not everybody feels this way, so YMMV. |
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Keith Aiken
From:
North Carolina, USA
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Rob DiStefano
From:
New Jersey, USA
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Posted 22 Feb 2023 2:57 pm
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I use Scotty's C6th strings on the 23" plank, works fine there, but a bit too much tension for the 25-1/2" scale. I made up a slightly lighter gauge set and it works fine.
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