Downtune String Size

[seeker]

Heh you Hamer xpurts,

Downtune to D for kicks, but am looking at dedicating a guitar for play. If I normally use 10s for fixed bridge and 9's for floyds, what sizes you recommend for similar action? 11's and 10's?

Recognize that the nut needs to be ample enough to accomodate.

Thanks!

[jisham]

11-60 should do the trick.

[seeker]

11-60 should do the trick.

Thanks! One of the standards I bought from you (way back) was loaded for downtuning, couldn't member.

[zenmindbeginner]

You should try Dean Markley Blue Steel strings. They have a tremendous amount of strength and also have a naturally higher tension than most strings because of the cryogenic process. I have been tuning down to C# the past fifteen years and have always used 12 gauge Blue Steels. The extra brilliance that you get from the freezing process helps brighten up a detuned guitar too.

If you don't have a locking trem, you'll need to widen the nut slots a bit or you'll get binding. Just don't make the slots any deeper and you'll be okay. Keep an eye on the truss rod too, it may need some adjustment.

[HSB0531]

We tune down to D# and both guitar players use 11's.