12-String Guitars Explained: Bigger Sound, Richer Tone

If you’ve ever heard a song that sounds like two guitars are playing at once, there’s a good chance it was a 12-string guitar. These instruments deliver a shimmering, chorus-like tone - but how do they actually work, and what makes them different from a standard 6-string?

🎸 What Is a 12-String Guitar?

A 12-string guitar looks a lot like a regular acoustic or electric, but each of its six standard strings is doubled, creating twelve total.

• The lower four string pairs (E, A, D, G) are tuned in octaves, giving you both a low and high version of each note.

• The top two pairs (B and high E) are tuned in unison.

When you strum, those string pairs ring together creating a naturally chorused, shimmering sound that’s richer and more complex than a 6-string.

🎶 What It Sounds Like

That doubled sound gives 12-strings their signature sparkle and depth. You’ll hear it in classic recordings from artists like Tom Petty, The Byrds, and Led Zeppelin.

On an acoustic, it produces a full, ringing tone perfect for rhythm playing. On an electric, it cuts through a mix with bright, layered texture that makes even simple chords sound huge.

⚙️ What to Expect as a Player

A 12-string takes a little more hand strength - there’s more tension and a wider neck - but lighter string gauges make them easier to play than ever.

They’re not an everyday guitar for most players, but they’re unbeatable when you want a lush, full sound for songwriting, recording, or layering parts live.

💎 Why You’ll Love It

• Naturally rich, full tone that fills out any mix

• Unique sound for rhythm, worship, or studio work

• Distinct visual and tonal character

• Perfect for players who want something different from a standard 6-string

🛒 Find a 12-String Guitar at Morris Guitar Company

At Morris Guitar Company, we often carry used and refurbished 12-string guitars - each one inspected, cleaned, and professionally set up so it’s ready to play right out of the box.