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I'm building my next project in my head before I start making wood chips. And said project is a 12-string. Which I've not yet made any of. So...which side of the main strings get the octave string, bass side or treble side? And why, and what differences exist between the two choices.

Much obliged.

Thanks!

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Peter Havriluk

The "standard" (if there is one) is for the octave strings in the even numbered position - 6, 8, 10, and 12. Rickenbacker electrics reverse that which is part of their unique sound. I think it does make a huge difference in the sound - think of it this way, If you strike the course with a down stroke which is the power stroke with a pick or the normal stroke with a thumb it seems to enhance the octave. Leo Kottke uses this very effectively - on his beautiful tune "Crow River Waltz" he play one part where he picks up with his finger giving mostly the primary, then he comes back and repeats with a thumb down stroke and the octave just rings out on top.

Obviously you can do it either way - a new nut and a bit of setting up would let you try the Rick stringing but all four of my 12 strings right now are "normal".

Talking about 12 strings does bring up a whole new can of worms - your tuning(s), string gauge choices, scale lengths and all the bracing questions need to be carefully considered before you make any chips. I currently have three acoustic twelves (and just built an electric monster) - they are all very different. If you want to bounce ideas off of me let me know.