Scale vs. Gauge

Jon Light · From: Saugerties, NY

If you are used to 24" scale and you are stringing up a 23" scale guitar with the same tuning, do you compnesate for the scale or do you just use the same strings you would use on the longer scale? If I use a .036 for a low B, 24", do I use a different string for 23"?
I am stringing up the Melobar that came a day early (!!) and it is 23". I'm putting an E13 on it and the strings would be nearly the same as an E9 PSG except for the scale thing.

Ricky Davis · From: Bertram, Texas USA

WEll first of all; a .036w for the low B on a 24" e9 pedal steel; is the WRONG guage. At least a .038w for a 24" scale would be proper.
So for a 23" scale; yes you want even heavier. I would suggest.
Here's what I use on short scale(23" is short scale) E13+9 tuning.



G#  .012p


F#  .013p


E   .015p


C#  .018p


B   .020p


G#  .024w


F#  .028w


E   .032w


D   .036w


B   .040w

Otherwise you may incure some intonation problems...and how some folks can't hear intonation problems....I know YOU CAN JON>>>ha....

------------------
Ricky Davis

Rebel™ and Ricky's Audio Clips
www.mightyfinemusic.com
Email Ricky: sshawaiian@austin.rr.com

Jon Light · From: Saugerties, NY

Thanks Ricky. Good chart to work from. You know, I've always had the 36 on my Carter. When I had the more traditional Uni tuning that string had to raise from B>D but I ditched that change and never considered the heavier string. I will now consider it.

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