B9 Tuning Questions re: setup and string gauge

Thomas Alexander · From: Ontario, Canada

Has anyone tried downtuning a regular 3x4 E9 neck to B9 and keeping the standard Emmons changes? I did not find much related to downtuning from searching the forum other than D9 and altered B6/Sneaky Pete copedents.

I am thinking of trying something like this and am wondering if there is anything to the setup other than changing the string gauge and retuning the pulls.

I am not exactly sure what string gauges would be appropriate, but am considering the following (regular E9 included for reference). The string tensions were calculated on https://tension.stringjoy.com/

Would regular guitar strings work for this setup? All the regular E9 strings I've used have 'reinforced' or 'high-break tested' G# and B strings--I'm not sure if that is just marketing or if there is a significant difference between them and regular nickel guitar strings.

Ian Rae · From: Redditch, England

Those gauges look entirely plausible. You can use any strings - it's really only the high G# on a long-scale E9 that needs a tougher one.
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John Goux · From: California, USA

Interesting idea, and you’ve done some homework.
I’ve often thought the 10 string E9 tuning would be better in a lower key.
But B. It kind of a hellish key. Just look at the open string note names on your chart.
Pedals down will be E. That seems cool.
You may want to call a steel tech to see if all the raises and lowers will work.
Good luck with this. Please report back.
John

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