String Tension

For people who build steel guitars

Moderator: J D Sauser

Ken Koellner
Posts: 26
Joined: 21 Jun 2024 6:44 am
Location: Massachusetts, USA

String Tension

Post by Ken Koellner »

Working on planning a build for an 8-string lap steel tuned in A6 -- F#AC#EF#AC#E. I'll probably go with a 24-25" scale length so it's pretty close to my square-neck resonator. I'm curious what is advised for string tension. Once I set the scale length I can use one of the online string calculators to figure out gauges, then if there's a pre-made set, close buy it, and if not, put together a custom set.
Top
Ken Koellner
Posts: 26
Joined: 21 Jun 2024 6:44 am
Location: Massachusetts, USA

Post by Ken Koellner »

Image

I started with what I have on my reso 6-string for GBDGBD. I decided to try for G-6 tuning instead of A-6 so I just added two E strings. So I'm starting with the same tension as my acoustic. Anyone have an opinion if that's a good starting point for lap steel?[/img]
Top
Les Ford
Posts: 84
Joined: 15 Oct 2017 7:22 pm
Location: British Columbia, Canada

Post by Les Ford »

Cindy Cashdollar's website has a lot of options for tuning and gauges.
Top

Return to “Builders' Corner”