Postby BRC » Sat May 23, 2020 9:09 am
Roger,
Thank you for that contribution which, I think, brings this back to the originating post.
I saw the two previous responses and felt rather perplexed as to the subject going off into a different area of challenging the need for 12 string guitars rather than the explanation given by me, from a simplistic viewpoint, and Gordon very much from the viewpoint of player and how it fitted in with him.
I like the links you gave and would urge the two other contributors to check them out as useful information.
I would like to add that whether or not you wish to have and play a 12 string guitar, no matter what configuration of strings, tuning or capo usage, that is it will depend on your objectives. I like the sound of a 12 string guitar where necessary to give that fuller backing sound rather than lead, but only occasionally. Having said that I can think of quite a few songs by The Beatles, Byrds, Eagles, Hollies etc where a 12 string has been used as lead very effectively.
The issue of how good or not so good a particular instrument is going to be suited to an individuals requirements is, as you have indicated, going to be guided by how much they want to pay and prepared to pay a good luthier to produce an instrument to meet the specifications and aspirations. I am limited by financial constraints to off the shelf instruments and more than happy with the VE2000GG 12 to meet my requirements - and accept the structural constraints. Should I be lucky enough to have a substantial win on a lottery maybe, just maybe, I would consider having a bespoke 12 string made for me and discuss the virtue of particular tone woods with the luthier. There are many more priorities in this world than that though.
Again, thank you for your contribution for resolving my concerns.
Kind regards to all
Brad