12 String vs 6 string ?????

[winxptipster]

I recently came into possession of a 12 string guitar.

I want to learn to play the guitar, but since I can't afford to buy one, I thought maybe I could remove six of the strings and use it as a 6-string acoustic guitar.

But I don't know if there is any difference between the two types.

Would I be all right using it this way or is there some major difference that would cause me problems as I advance (hopefully) in my lessons?

I'm looking for some good advice here, so let's hear it, people.

Many thanks in advance

winxptipster

[Dr_simon]

Well, a 12 string is tuned at octaves for the first 3 or 4 bottom (pitch) strings and just double strung with the same tuning for the top 2 or 3 strings. Usually they are tuned to a D rather than an E to drop some of the tension on the neck and a capo is used on the second fret.

The problems with this arrangement are things like string bending and the extra tension generated by the second set of strings. This makes playing solos very difficult.

You could just ignore the second set of strings with out any problem however you are still faced with all the limitations of an acoustic guitar (hi action and very tense strings).

[Kevin Taylor]

You could do it no problem. The only major difference is that the neck may be slightly wider to accomodate the 12 strings, so if you switch to 6 strings, they may be a little further apart than normal.
Other than that, there's no real problem. I used to do it with my old Yamaha 12-string all the time.

[winxptipster]

Dr_simon,
Appreciate the response but I didn't understand very much of what you said.
My intention was to remove six strings and use the guitar as a 6-string acoustic.Therefore I wouldn't face problems with the extra 6 strings. The tension kind of through me. I was going to buy a set of guitar strings for a 6-string guitar.

schmange,
Thanks for the reply. It would appear then, that the only problem I might face would be in the future if I were to purchase a 6-string guitar. The neck might be thinner, putting the strings closer together, which could throw me for a loop if I learn on a wider neck.

All right, I am going to do it. Can't hurt to try.

Thanks again folks,
winxptipster

[Dr_simon]

like Schmange said you will be fine with 6 strings on a 12 string

[Jolly McJollyson]

The neck might be thinner, putting the strings closer together, which could throw me for a loop if I learn on a wider neck.
There's no "might" about it. The neck WOULD be thinner, and the strings closer together. It wouldn't throw you for a loop though. It would take about thirty seconds (if that) to get used to. It'd probably be easier to play anyhow. Unless you're fingerpicking.

[PonyOne]

my 12 string (a 60's aria diamond hollowbody electric) has a neck that is actually thinner than the neck on my Kramer. at the upper frets it's kind of a bummer to play because of this; everything's really tight together. but honestly, most of the 12 strings i've played are only like a negligible amount thicker, if not the same width; electrics especially.

you can take off all the octave strings (the thinner of each pair of strings) and tune it normally, it'll be a regular 6 string. 12 strings are beautiful sounding instruments, very fanciful and pretty, but they can be a pain to learn on.