12-STRING GUITAR...YOU'RE PLAYING IT WRONG! | FESLEY FDET280

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  • Опубліковано 19 тра 2024
  • Buy a FESLEY FDET280: amzn.to/4bBLyHH
    5%code:FesleyFG, Valid until February 29th.
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    In this video, we will thoroughly review and setup a ~$200 Fesley 12-string guitar and see what sort of issues it might have. The guitar has a solid AAA Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, so I have high hopes for it! Plus, it's acoustic/electric!
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    0:00 Unboxing and Inspection
    22:39 Fixing Fret Issues
    31:30 Fixing Nut Issues
    41:57 Playing
    44:50 What you're doing wrong
    #fesley #fesleymusic #fesleyguitar
  • Наука та технологія

КОМЕНТАРІ • 723

  • @TheGuitologist
    @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +12

    Buy a FESLEY FDET280: amzn.to/4bBLyHH
    5%code:FesleyFG, Valid until February 29th.

    • @EwetoobSucks
      @EwetoobSucks 3 місяці тому

      What's the difference between the octave string first, or the base string first when string up a 12-string ?
      Personal preference, or is it an auditory thing ?

    • @mars6433
      @mars6433 3 місяці тому +2

      12 notes in the musical scale......12 strings on that guitar .......coincidence ??

    • @54fighting5
      @54fighting5 3 місяці тому +4

      ​@@mars6433 Don't forget 12 eggs in a carton, 12 months in a year. You can tune a guitar but you can't tune a fish!

    • @jimsliverootsculturemusic
      @jimsliverootsculturemusic 3 місяці тому +2

      @@54fighting5 And what were once vices are now habits. Whale meat again.

    • @captainchaos3053
      @captainchaos3053 3 місяці тому +1

      His link does not work

  • @Edward1312
    @Edward1312 3 місяці тому +183

    I always detune a full step, down to D then use a capo for songs in standard tuning. Detuning will also stop string tension ripping the guitar apart. The lower string tension due to detuning will also lower the action and make string breakages less likely.

    • @jasonlee8497
      @jasonlee8497 3 місяці тому +15

      I did it as an experiment. Never went back. Fun to play

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +49

      That's a common thing a lot of players do. You're right it's smart from an engineering standpoint. Guitar is less likely to break. The only problem is the strings get so slack, especially if you're using light gauge to begin with, dropping a full step causes loss of power in the notes, loss of sustain, and more fret buzz.

    • @jimsliverootsculturemusic
      @jimsliverootsculturemusic 3 місяці тому +11

      Easier to play that wall of strings when they're under less tension too!

    • @hoboroadie4623
      @hoboroadie4623 3 місяці тому +21

      Lots of folks like the Guild 12-strings because they reputedly have solved the basic engineering issues.

    • @ellenrugowski6255
      @ellenrugowski6255 3 місяці тому +10

      I've been playing 12-strings for a while, and I do the same thing. I know some players say that today's 12-strings can handle the string tension when to to Standard (Concert E), but ever since I bought a 70s Guild G212 at the Chicago Guitar Show 10 years ago, that I ended up realizing had always been tuned to Standard, and had a lifted bridge, a bulged top, and a neck that was pulling up, that needed a reset, I've always tuned down a full step (to Concert D). Besides, I like the darker tone of down tuned acoustics.

  • @douglasncarter
    @douglasncarter 3 місяці тому +49

    I must have watched 50 hours of guitar setups that didn't explain filing the nut, the angle towards the tuner, and what height above the first fret to set the slots at. You may say that there are tons of videos out there about setups, but for some reason the ones I've watched didn't do justice on filing the nut. This one did. Thanks.

    • @johnny79309
      @johnny79309 2 місяці тому +2

      Yes , i have not seen the guages at the nut for filing purposes , it makes sense but it’s the first I’ve seen on youtube, regardless of what Stewart Macdonald as put on youtube

  • @jpalberthoward9
    @jpalberthoward9 3 місяці тому +48

    There was a guy who worked in a store in my neighborhood. He used to say:
    "Tuning a 12 string is like putting army boots on an epileptic centipede ".

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +14

      He was a wise man and a poet.

    • @oldrrocr
      @oldrrocr 2 місяці тому +1

      put on new strings and double lock them... makes a world of difference holding tune!!! (I also went very light strings)

    • @user-yl5fu2it7j
      @user-yl5fu2it7j 2 місяці тому +5

      Epileptic Centipede? I remember them! Great band.....

    • @ludwigfan3013
      @ludwigfan3013 2 місяці тому +3

      Gordon Lightfoot never seemed to have this issue. That's probably why he was Gordon Lightfoot though.

    • @jack002tuber
      @jack002tuber 2 місяці тому +2

      @@ludwigfan3013A cheap 12 string would have changed that

  • @tylerpunkbassist
    @tylerpunkbassist 3 місяці тому +14

    I inherited an old Estrella 12 string from my great uncle and I always keep it in open d. Absolutely beautiful sounding in that tuning

  • @elusiveeskimo3013
    @elusiveeskimo3013 3 місяці тому +23

    Like many guitarist I keep my 12-string guitars tuned down a full step and Capo 2 for standard tuning. It's less stress on the guitars, and my fingers during long sessions. A trick I was shown many years ago for new acoustic instruments is to place them on a stand in front of a stereo speaker, sound hole facing speaker, stereo playing music you like at a normal level. If you lightly touch the back of the instrument you will be able to feel the wood resonating with the music. Older wood instruments sound better than new cause their wood has been seasoned by the years of being played. What this resonate vibration is doing is helping speed up the seasoning process of the wood itself. 2-3 weeks (nonstop, 24/7) in front of a speaker this way will season the wood equally to what years of normal playing would eventually achieve. Works for all acoustic wood instruments. Brings out the truly beautiful sound the instrument will mature to have, years sooner.

    • @tonyduncan9852
      @tonyduncan9852 2 місяці тому +2

      What a smashing idea! _Of course_ it helps the wood settle under load and vibration. Thanks.

    • @kevinmccann2294
      @kevinmccann2294 2 місяці тому

      I keep mine Tunes to full 440 concert pitch without a capo. But I'm talking about a guild Westerly with a block reinforced neck at the body and double steel truss rods. Man this thing here fazeley or whatever it is $200 12 string😅😅😅😅😅😅

    • @lbmeredith9839
      @lbmeredith9839 2 місяці тому +2

      I've kept my 1971 Epiphone FT165 12 string in Standard E since buying it in Aug of 1975.
      Still play every Sundy for church.

    • @brucefrye2292
      @brucefrye2292 Місяць тому

      I have an Epiphone 12 string, with medium strings tuned to open C plays and sounds wonderful!

    • @berniarmstrong
      @berniarmstrong Місяць тому +1

      I was advised to downtune and capo, some 40 years ago when I bought a Fender 12 and it has never given me any tension related problems since. I got it cheap because it had fallen over in the store and there was a minor dent on the lower edge of the fretboard. Unsure of whether any further damage would show itself over time, the guy in the shop reduced the price. It still sounds great to me and the dent has never been an issue.

  • @jamestrotter3162
    @jamestrotter3162 3 місяці тому +22

    I have a Takamine 12 string made with the Martin style headstock. My wife got it for me for Father's Day several years ago. She bought it used for $275.00 back in the 80's. It's a good guitar.

    • @m1goodwin
      @m1goodwin 2 місяці тому +2

      I had the same guitar I bought new (1978 F-400). Unfortunately it imploded and ripped itself apart after 12 years even though I had it tuned down one note. Keep an eye on the bridge and get a bridge doctor if you notice a bulge in the top. Part of my problem was that the action was too high and I was too inexperienced to realize it could be corrected.

    • @BARNOWLFLEDGLINGS
      @BARNOWLFLEDGLINGS 2 місяці тому +2

      I have one too, bought it back in 1980, used for $175.00. However the guitar had challenges with the top lifting from the bridge. My luthier resolved the issue, but here’s the fun part. Several years ago, my producer turned me onto Nashville High String Tuning, stringing up a 6 string guitar, using only 12 string high strings (check out Keef’s acoustic guitar playing on the Sticky Fingers track “Wild Horses), so one day I decided to string up my 12 string Tak. in Nashville High String. The end result was… WOW! ❤ It’s like having a guitar version of a mandolin, love it so, we use it in the studio to enhance tracking. Check it out you’ll be glade you did. Also play around with 432hz tuning too. What was good for Mozart is good for all. 😊

    • @ludwigfan3013
      @ludwigfan3013 2 місяці тому +2

      I have one of these too. I had to pawn it a few years back and it's one of the few things that I pawned where the place was willing to offer me more money than what I was originally asking for. Luckily I got it back out and never pawned it since

    • @DG-mv6zw
      @DG-mv6zw 2 місяці тому

      You married your daughter? 😂

    • @firebald2915
      @firebald2915 2 місяці тому

      Like they say about headstocks, you can't play a rosette, either. Cosmetics. We love natural patina and wear.

  • @joeman5220
    @joeman5220 3 місяці тому +17

    Those unfinished frets and the nut slot fixes are an example of what Brad said. They cut corners to keep the price lower. After Brad fixed those parts it sounded great

    • @xHadesStamps
      @xHadesStamps 2 місяці тому +1

      Better that than something that can’t be fixed

  • @Markuson3
    @Markuson3 2 місяці тому +9

    Truly love your A.D.D. tinged communicating tendencies. Seriously do. Not an insult. You do exactly what I do with the caveats, distractions and meandering. I find it just right for my own tendencies.
    PS. Tge most helpful ADD description is NOT an inability to pay attention. Instead, it’s closer to an inability to NOT pay attention to……EVERYTHING at the same time. Sometimes that’s super helpful! Sometimes not.
    💪🏻🤷🏻‍♂️👍🏼

  • @WEdHarris
    @WEdHarris 2 місяці тому +8

    Awesome review and I loved the cardboard box quote in closing! Gave me a chuckle! Thanks so much! Learned some great "set-up" tips!

  • @thomaskafafian2871
    @thomaskafafian2871 2 місяці тому +26

    My dear friend Warren, RIP, always taught us to not pop a g string: tune up a little then back down a half, then up a little more, then down a half, that’s the way to not pop the string when you’re putting on new strings. Otherwise, you get a buildup between the nut and the tuners that can break. The other thing is, push down on the string above the nut to release the tension. You gotta wiggle it into tune.

  • @VirginiaWolf88
    @VirginiaWolf88 3 місяці тому +16

    Great Pointers. I have a 12 string but I never thought about some of your pointers. Thank You!!! I like the way that you play!

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +8

      Thanks! Usually people just tell me they’re doing fine by themselves and to F off.

  • @TheOrigamiPeople
    @TheOrigamiPeople 2 місяці тому +6

    You taught me a lot about 12 strings during this .thank you.i have a Maton 12 string and you inspired me to use it today instead of the 6 string

  • @CameraLaw
    @CameraLaw 3 місяці тому +3

    Thanks. Been binging 12-string videos while awaiting delivery of my first one. Much useful info and advice.

  • @geneedwards5639
    @geneedwards5639 2 місяці тому +2

    I just discovered your channel; I’m hooked! Excellent explanations and demonstrations. Thank you from Gilbert, AZ.

  • @lancethrustworthy
    @lancethrustworthy 2 місяці тому +6

    Man, ya had me tearin' up there near the end. Mighty fine pluckin'. I can see why the guitar company asked you to check out their stuff. Nice video.

  • @robertmorrison5728
    @robertmorrison5728 2 місяці тому +5

    Thanks for the excellent review!! The Fez sounds nice! The Cardboard Box wisdom had me laughing!! Thanks for adding that part to conclude matters!!

  • @54fighting5
    @54fighting5 3 місяці тому +18

    Interpretation of the true words on the cardboard box:😉
    "When you tune a Fesley you tune your soul...which we own...along with your electronics, your pharmaceuticals, your medical supplies, your musical instruments, everything you buy from Amazon/Temu/WalMart, and of course your President. Your Fesley guitar is your heartbeat. Please enjoy it and take it everywhere...we put a gps tracker in it 👀."
    Signed- Sook Mi Dong Fesley
    BTW loved the video. Watching the process as you were figuring it out was cool.👍

    • @-dazz-
      @-dazz- 3 місяці тому

      Funny you would say that, considering that Trump is in Putin's pocket, who in turn is Xi Jingpin's bitch.

    • @BIZARBIES
      @BIZARBIES 3 місяці тому +1

      Dong is a pretty honest guy 😂

  • @DovidM
    @DovidM 3 місяці тому +12

    On most of Lonnie Johnson’s recordings with a 12 string, he had two strings for each of the top three (G, B and E) and a single string for each of the three lower strings (E, A and D). This made it a 9 string.

    • @DovidM
      @DovidM 3 місяці тому +2

      I had put my source in a reply but UA-cam doesn’t like URLs.

    • @damienmaccearnaigh7958
      @damienmaccearnaigh7958 2 місяці тому +1

      Weirdly, Brent Hinds of Mastodon and Matt Pike of Sleep/High On Fire have that same setup on custom First Act electrics to play nasty metal. Really is nothing new under the sun, is there?

    • @denniswilliams2385
      @denniswilliams2385 2 місяці тому +3

      I wrote many of my best songs with the exact same setup. And to think that I actually had an original thought! 🤪

    • @solidtmj
      @solidtmj Місяць тому +1

      9 strings used to be a thing back in like the 80s. They have some on reverb.

  • @rafaelcuadra5009
    @rafaelcuadra5009 3 місяці тому +5

    I have been a fan for a while now, and I really like this demo of this guitar. I could tell by lookig at this vid that you like this 12 string and enoy playing acoustic guitars, a nice smoothe style...your time put into this is clear. Again, very nice!!!

  • @FesleyMusic
    @FesleyMusic 2 місяці тому +43

    Thanks for checking out every detail of it and giving it a new look! This has helped us with future design and production, and thanks to everyone in the comments section for your insights, we'll be looking at it and referencing it carefully, it's much appreciated🙏🙏

    • @X-pe7ig
      @X-pe7ig 2 місяці тому +1

      I detune all of my guitars in a similar fashion; less string tension, and thus, easier to play. Many professionals employ this detuning method.
      Another consideration would be the ability to use a heavier gauge string set, offering a different dimension in overall tone produced by a particular instrument. Part of the fun is determining what works for your instrument; i.e, string, composition and manufacturer (flat wound versus round wound, phosphor bronze or
      nylon, etc).
      Cheers!

    • @FesleyMusic
      @FesleyMusic 2 місяці тому

      @@X-pe7ig Thank you for sharing!
      Cheers!

    • @zensational.
      @zensational. 2 місяці тому +1

      This is a terrible review honestly, very unprofessional. Could of been a 5 minute video, and provided more information in that 5 mins then this guy did in almost a full hour.
      I have been a professional guitar player for 10 yrs, I do woodworking and make instruments as well. I'd be happy to review instruments and give feedback on simple things that would greatly improve quality.

    • @zensational.
      @zensational. 2 місяці тому +1

      Drying and curing your wood longer in general will help everything, especially the frets on fretboards - they pop out as the wood dries.
      The rosette and bindings mean nothing to the sound of the guitar, just an ego cosmetic touch. I'd
      suggest making a model with no pick guard and no rosette - for fingerstyle guitar.
      The nuts being properly slotted to the correct depth is crucial for intonation and playability.
      Quality of strings and nut/bridge materials are crucial to a decent sound as well.

  • @SnifferCustoms
    @SnifferCustoms 2 місяці тому +2

    I just really enjoyed listening to you play guitar! Very nice way to end evening, thank you for sharing! ✌🏻

  • @kwright3929
    @kwright3929 3 місяці тому +7

    Great video. Nice to see a guy who knows what he's talking about. And his playing at the end section is really tasty. A real musician who knows the guitar 👏

  • @MegaTubescreamer
    @MegaTubescreamer 3 місяці тому +5

    brad this is brilliant stuff, i bought a 2nd hand fender 12 string years ago
    just to learn `life by the drop`that intro is killer, all you did here was exactly
    as i did my upgrades, even marking the files with a felt tip pen! lmao,
    i kid you not, (the shop in leeds uk was closing down) so i got a bargain ,
    great video brad thankyou 😇👍👍

  • @anthonyrmay1502
    @anthonyrmay1502 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for showing how to dress the frets. Your lesson is very clear and it's a good tip regarding the movement of the strings.

  • @rubecork7102
    @rubecork7102 2 місяці тому +2

    Very interesting and informative! The ending was a special treat of humor! I'm going right now to watch the ending again.

  • @devlin0208
    @devlin0208 3 місяці тому +6

    I've got a 50+ year old Alvarez I traded a tent for when I was a kid and embarked on my guitar journey. I've got way too many guitars now, but I will always love my 12 strings. That Alvarez is a great guitar and I I've since got a couple Ric 12s and a Gibson Hummingbird 12, they are fun and add a lot to the mix on the right song. And the strings usually last a long time.

  • @rustyrobinson8027
    @rustyrobinson8027 3 місяці тому +3

    Thanks Brad although other people have this same content it's really cool to watch you do it 👍

  • @martyrocks2091
    @martyrocks2091 3 місяці тому +5

    I love 12 stringers. Spend half my time tuning it and the other half playing out of tune lol.
    Got a Yamaha in the 90s. Only took 10 years of playing in standard tuning before the bridge started to lift. I repaired it and don't tune it any higher than E flat now.
    Great, informative content. I enjoyed this, Brad.
    Liked and subbed. 👍

  • @rickeylee1488
    @rickeylee1488 2 місяці тому

    I HAVE watched plenty of other videos on tuning and setup....Dude THIS VIDEO JUST BECAME TOPS!!! Thank You for a Real Quality Video

  • @deanbartone8187
    @deanbartone8187 2 місяці тому +1

    Hey Brad, once again excellent video everything you said was spot on from start to finish and I actually love the cardboard box comment that was hysterical. I agree 100% with everything that you said, and did with this you are the man.

  • @AlanYeeOfficial
    @AlanYeeOfficial 3 місяці тому +25

    The ending of the video is a perfect dismount---judge's score: 10/10 🤣

  • @finmac5548
    @finmac5548 Місяць тому

    Great nut setup technique and demo! I have always been always scared of trying to alter mine myself in case I effed it up but now, having seen the way you do it, I feel like I could tackle this job armed with the right tools….nice one dude.

  • @colauty2598
    @colauty2598 2 місяці тому +2

    Brilliant ! we can always learn something by listening - I learned to tune the thicker strings first, alternating top and bottom, then I tune in thin strings, ending on the G thinnest, equates the tension - anyway, cheers, entertaining and very useful information you give !!

    • @fredstevens799
      @fredstevens799 2 місяці тому +1

      tuning is much simpler that way! - the Rickenbacker 12-strings are reverse strung and easier to tune for that reason - tune the fat string normally and the octave you can tune by ear!

  • @n8iws484
    @n8iws484 3 місяці тому +9

    I learned a lot of things I didn't know about 12 strings. Still my favorite guitar sounds. Thanks Brad.

  • @Rusty-METAL-J
    @Rusty-METAL-J Місяць тому +1

    Right from the jump, I was born in 79 and I love that your opening sequence is modeled after 80s & 90s HBO sequences

    • @Rusty-METAL-J
      @Rusty-METAL-J Місяць тому +1

      The extra pick guard is for you to autograph or customize. Also if the 1 on there gets scratched up from strumming, you already have 1 nice, new, shiny 1 in reserve. I love the pick guard shape. It's unusual and METAL. The wood is nice.

    • @Rusty-METAL-J
      @Rusty-METAL-J Місяць тому +1

      When you showed the site, those other guitars looked nice at a glance.

    • @Rusty-METAL-J
      @Rusty-METAL-J Місяць тому

      Yeah dye is nothing like die. But there's chemical dyes that if taken internally, will make you die.

    • @Rusty-METAL-J
      @Rusty-METAL-J 29 днів тому +1

      I like my strings Sooooooooooooo close to the fretboard that a 3 year old could easily fret the notes. I'm just above string buzz. I'm using Dunlop Heavy Core TRIVIUM and KoRn 7-String sets on my Ibanez RG 7-String.

    • @Rusty-METAL-J
      @Rusty-METAL-J 29 днів тому +1

      For a sticker, that rosette does look decent. It's got a satin pearlescent shine to that changes with the light.

  • @Gibson360
    @Gibson360 2 місяці тому

    Thank you so much for what you're doing. Thank you for standing on your principles. Don't forget your songs have volume. Charging more or less for your tickets can get in the way money is evil and it works in a lot of different ways.. Don't let them use money.
    As a wall to keep your light in.

  • @deanlutgert8292
    @deanlutgert8292 2 місяці тому

    Sounds good nice video makes me want to play with my 12 string learned a few things to thanks for sharing your knowledge

  • @LaudCranium
    @LaudCranium 3 місяці тому +1

    thanks Brad. very informative. i have an aria 12string. i have detuned it to Db because of the immense string tension. i should look at that nut too.

  • @armchairzen
    @armchairzen 3 місяці тому +11

    I have a Framus and a Hofner 12 string from the early 70's with no warps or bridge pulling up. They feature a zero fret, invaluable an a 12-string.

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +4

      I had a Framus 12-string on the channel once.

  • @paulconibearmusic
    @paulconibearmusic 2 місяці тому +1

    Thank you i picked up some great tips there that i had not even begun to think about esspecially the down strokes i liked it so much i subscribed and hit the notifications for more great content As we say in Wales TIDY MUN.

  • @lpjbird
    @lpjbird 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for the entertainment…and tips on setting up a 12 string…very good advice. Plus Fesley should be happy with your assessment. Just makes me want to run out & buy one to see for myself!!! I already have 3 that I paid WAY more for long ago.

  • @YARNBARF
    @YARNBARF 2 місяці тому +2

    I wish I knew all this stuff when I got my first 12 string guitar, an Epiphone, in 1970. I didn't know anything about truss rods, filing down the nuts, etc. But I had awesome calluses on the tips of my fingers, lol!!

  • @kickcanlurky7147
    @kickcanlurky7147 2 місяці тому +3

    Brad i must say, if u were in the U.K., you would be my go to guitar/Amp fella, but im now 54, and i would struggle to swim that far, coz i hate flying, sober anyway, keep on keepin on pal

  • @micr0chap
    @micr0chap 2 місяці тому

    Boy, oh boy! That was a masterclass in setting up and playing a 12-string acoustic. Thanks, man! (sub'd)

  • @guitfidle
    @guitfidle 2 місяці тому +7

    Not too shabby for about $200. I got lucky and scored a really nice barely used Alvarez 12 string for $350. I see high nut slots all the time on new and used instruments. Recutting those slots is one of the first things I do whenever I get an instrument or repair one for someone else. It's surprising to most people how much of a difference that can make. Fret ends are probably the second most common fix 😁😁

    • @Ira88881
      @Ira88881 7 днів тому +2

      Alvarez is a real guitar.
      This thing isn’t.

    • @guitfidle
      @guitfidle 6 днів тому +1

      @@Ira88881 haha! Can't argue with that 🤣 I am really impressed with the build quality on mine. It's set up better than lower priced guitars from the big name guys, especially for a 12 string. Someone along the way was paing attention when they made the nut and the bridge, and the fret ends are nice and neat. 100% would recommend.

  • @djblanch
    @djblanch 2 місяці тому

    Very thorough and comprehensive. I have to call "click bait" on your title, though. I've been playing my 12-string RIGHT since 1972. My first decent guitar was a Lyle Hummingbird 6-string, bought in 1966, but an 8th grade teacher brought his 12-string to play Civil War songs for the class, and I HAD to have one, so my folks got me a no-brand one (used) for Christmas. When I went away to college in 1972, someone in the dorms had a Lyle Hummingbird 12-string that they were willing to sell, so I sold mine and for $100 I had a matching pair of Humingbirds. I've played that 12-string for over 50 years, on and off, in standard tuning.
    The biggest revelation I've had related to playing it was when an older fellow student took out his 12-string and started playing it with banjo picks! (I found out later he also played 5-string banjo AND classical guitar.) We started a folk group together, and I've used banjo picks ever since (and also learned to play 5-string banjo, although not extremely well!) Since the thumb pick always strums down, it's easy to do the strokes you recommend for runs on the lower strings.
    The only problem I had with my Lyle 12 was when the trapeze bridge broke -- one of the dividers between two of the strings snapped. Since the strings are doubled at the lower end, and it had ball-end strings, more force was put on the slots. Fortunately, I was able to find a very similar trapeze bridge to replace it, since there was no way to repair it. Worth the effort!

  • @TheFman2010
    @TheFman2010 2 місяці тому +5

    Brilliant presentation. I learned a lot.

  • @charlespeck886
    @charlespeck886 3 місяці тому +1

    I took the Piezo out of my Takamine and put a new bone bridge in it at the same time lowering the 12th fret clearances and 1st fret also. It now has a LR Baggs HiFi Pickup. Love it now, much better than the crap electronics that it came with! Kept the box on the side for housing the battery only.

  • @jonesthephones
    @jonesthephones 2 місяці тому

    Excellent, instructive and entertaining video. Thank you so much. So many guitar reviews are put up by relative beginners. Not this one. Your experience and skills shine through :)

  • @AlvinWar
    @AlvinWar 2 місяці тому +1

    Hey Brad! Long time subscriber. I just wanted to comment and tell you that your channel is great and you are awesome!

  • @davidsolomon5857
    @davidsolomon5857 2 місяці тому +1

    Excellent video, thank you very much, many interesting tips and nicely presented

  • @samizdat113
    @samizdat113 3 місяці тому +2

    I sinch my strings like that but I put at most one wrap around the post. Works wonderfully.

  • @albert30300
    @albert30300 3 місяці тому +6

    You are the number oneth guitar reviewer in the World

  • @bobberndt9744
    @bobberndt9744 2 місяці тому +1

    I'll happily wait for 'Brother, can you lend me a dime'. Boz & Duane !!! FANTASTIC 🤯

  • @sidneysnottley6414
    @sidneysnottley6414 3 місяці тому +1

    Now that was an interesting , informative and entertaining guitar review.
    We got the lot - Review, the Fix-up and some good guitar playing.
    Onya.
    👍

  • @jbrobertson2758
    @jbrobertson2758 3 місяці тому +1

    I have a Guild JF-30, made in Westerly, Rhode Island circa 1998. Dual truss rods in the neck handle medium gauge without any problem. It starts to buzz a little when tuned down to D standard! Also, Guild neck profiles feel awesome!

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +1

      No question Guilds are the best 12-strings.

  • @MrWhiteamin
    @MrWhiteamin 2 місяці тому

    Very nice, lots of tips and tricks. Haven't had a 12 string for years. ☺

  • @onetruetroy
    @onetruetroy 2 місяці тому

    This video sweetly strums. I bought a Vangoa 12 string and have been super careful and just getting to know it (no popped strings). Thank you for showing the whole process and giving insight and reason to the art. I’m 57 and just started. Luckily, I’m very technical oriented and want to know about angles, depth, action, stresses and alternate tunings. I decided to go with a drop D, but the open didn’t sound right. I set my tuning at (from low) D G C F Bb Eb. I like it but don’t know if this is a named tuning. Because of the lower tension I had to tighten the truss rod. I actually pushed down on the neck when it looked good then tightened the nut. Hooked on a Feeling and Air on a G String have new meaning to me.
    The best outro.

  • @framusburns-hagstromiii808
    @framusburns-hagstromiii808 3 місяці тому +1

    Good stuff, thanks for the words of wisdom. Hope Fesley compensated you appropriately. Cheers!

  • @fpvtv2222
    @fpvtv2222 2 місяці тому

    Great video on the china mart 12 string. I learned a lot about fixing the nut. Like you said there is nothing like a good but jpb😂😂😂😂. Except when they're running the country😂😂 great video.

  • @larrybrickey1133
    @larrybrickey1133 2 місяці тому

    On my Taylor 300 series, I had a pickup installed. I put on medium strings and tuned it "traditional" tuning ,B to B. That way I got the rattle and hum I love about acoustic 12s. There is a capo for 12 string where the higher string and lower string match in height.

  • @user-dv7hb2sc9m
    @user-dv7hb2sc9m Місяць тому

    I had a 1970's Yamaha that was pretty nice..... been a long time since playing >> fingers/hand nerve system injury. But I still
    like to see what's out there.. thanks for the video. peace

  • @OldStreetDoc
    @OldStreetDoc 3 місяці тому +1

    Seems you really CAN get a fair amount of guitar sometimes for NOT much money!
    I’ve seen more and more Fesley guitars on different channels lately. Most of them sounded pretty good if I’m honest, and of all of them this one sounds (of course only through my speakers anyway) REALLY good.
    Nice job, brother. 👍🏼

  • @davegann4178
    @davegann4178 2 місяці тому +2

    Well, it took about 46 minutes to find out what I'm doing wrong, but you're right--I never thought about that so much--I'll take your advice about the downstrokes.

    • @fredstevens799
      @fredstevens799 2 місяці тому

      not all 12-strings are strung that way - ie Rickenbackers are strung "reverse" with the fat string closer to your face - they sound "different" for the same reasons, but really do not require changing strumming/picking patterns. I just acquired a fab Taylor T5z-12 "reverse strung" that is totally amazing. they are easier to tune also, just tune the closer fat string the ordinary way, then you can tune the octave by ear very easily.

  • @timmewolff
    @timmewolff 3 місяці тому +1

    More vids like this. I actually learned stuff. ❤

  • @edcrutchfield3447
    @edcrutchfield3447 2 місяці тому

    Thank you . I have a 12 string Taylor. Got it lightly used. It’s got a beautiful sound I’m a beginner. Also have a 6 string Yamaha acoustic. I enjoy both. If I have any problems I hope I got someone like you to fix it.

  • @podfuk
    @podfuk 3 місяці тому +2

    Nice review Sensei, 12 string guitars are underappreciated.

  • @whitestream5233
    @whitestream5233 2 місяці тому

    Excellent and a nice improvement to a guitar. I'll be checking my 12 string to see if I can get the action a little lower.

  • @patrickmersault4298
    @patrickmersault4298 3 місяці тому +2

    Sick video, really digging your uploads recently. Literally nothing is better than a Schubb capo though. I will die on that hill.

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  3 місяці тому +1

      I might have been going too far that was better than my Schubb.

  • @maylovelive4697
    @maylovelive4697 Місяць тому

    Nice informative review. When he was talking about the spruce top (sound board) I was hoping he'd mention the difference between a plywood and solid top and how to easily determine by looking at the edge of the wood inside the sound hole. Many of us know the importance of this, and that a new guitar in this price range will always be a plywood top. This is probably a good thing to check when buying a used guitar if your seeking a better sounding and better quality instrument, because a "solid top" more efficiently transfers the vibration of the strings into the air and to our ears...making it a better sounding guitar.

  • @jimromanski2702
    @jimromanski2702 2 місяці тому +2

    A very nice video about how to buy and cheap guitar and get it to sound quite good for the money. I suspect most people will just take it to a Luthier and get new strings and a good setup. I know that costs almost as much as the guitar but you really need to do it. Even some high end guitars need setups out of the box. I've found that Gibsons half the time need a setup and new strings. Talyor's almost never do. They put long lasting good strings on them and their setup seems perfect out of the box. Smart of Taylor to do that.
    My only critique is that I clicked on the video to find out how I might be playing my 12 string wrong only to find out that MOST of the video was unboxing and setting up the guitar. The last 2 minutes out of a 49 minute video you talked a lil bit about playing and nothing new there for me. Please refrain from "click bait" like "you're playing it wrong." How about "Unboxing and getting an inexpensive 12 string guitar to sound great!" Thanks again for a good video.

  • @themopedmetallist
    @themopedmetallist 3 місяці тому +4

    Saved an Eko "Rio Bravo" from the dumpster with a reverse-engineered Bridge Doctor (using a fiberglass rod in place of the dowel) and an oversize neck screw

  • @nellayema2455
    @nellayema2455 2 місяці тому +3

    Excellent video, Brad. The guitar sounds great! I've wanted a 12-string for a long time because they sound so good, but the string changes and tuning seem like such a chore, and I'm kind of lazy, lol.

  • @ppetal1
    @ppetal1 2 місяці тому +1

    Old guitarist carpenter here. Great info. Especially to learn what the proper tools look like.

  • @robertclarkguitar
    @robertclarkguitar 3 місяці тому +1

    I strangely learned my chords as a young teen borrowing friends dads 12 string. He would jam with me at my house since I had my drum kit at my house on base. He and I played a lot together and taught me the chords (cowboy) as they call it now. When I got to playing or messing with electrics OMG. Power steering. Funny that 35 plus years later I would buy my first electric of my own and learn a bit more lol.

  • @kenmcgovern8775
    @kenmcgovern8775 2 місяці тому

    "Eye caught me The Josey Wales!". ;)
    Great in-depth review. Thanks.

  • @mikeellis9720
    @mikeellis9720 2 місяці тому +1

    My 1970 EKO Ranger Xll has a Zero Fret and that makes a huge difference in the open string sounds.

  • @francisskundaliny1295
    @francisskundaliny1295 17 днів тому +1

    Mr.brad, you are the best tecnical entertainer in guitars&gadgets on this planet!🫠👍greets from vienna!😘🎸🎸🎸🎶🎶🎵

  • @Sammywhat
    @Sammywhat 3 місяці тому +1

    Nice work, Brad! Fun guitar. Sounds pretty decent. I find a 12-string is very forgiving when it comes to tone... I'm guessing with a set of better strings and that's going to be a fine guitar for the money.

  • @davidflamee
    @davidflamee 3 місяці тому +3

    The knowledge that you share, is knowledge worth having.

  • @ricoeugene2628
    @ricoeugene2628 2 місяці тому

    Thank You . Insightful. Informative. Enlightening.

  • @MetalMalc
    @MetalMalc 2 місяці тому +1

    I had wandered into the local guitar store, picked a guitar at random, and sat down to play. The store owner congratulated me on being a very accurate finger-plucker ('especially on a 12-string'). I squinted at the strings and them at the guitar head. I was so drunk I hadn't noticed. I bought the guitar.

  • @user-df7xn8uq1n
    @user-df7xn8uq1n 2 місяці тому

    I really enjoyed you you're pretty detailed on what you did and there's some things I didn't know cuz I'm trying to learn how to set up guitars and repair them and I have a 12-string Apple phone that's just been giving me a fit and I moisturize and everything is supposed to do because I can 1970 but I'm going to make a bridge out there and put in there and I think that'll level out the sound hole I know how to do the f r e t s thank you

  • @lovepeace8918
    @lovepeace8918 Місяць тому +1

    Thanks nice educational video man, appreciate it.

  • @anejo333
    @anejo333 3 місяці тому +1

    I laughed so hard at the nut job joke lol. I liked your trick with the feeler gauge and cutting the nut slot. I will try that tomorrow. I got 2 to do.

  • @NickRatnieks
    @NickRatnieks 3 місяці тому

    I used to enjoy Billy Strange's 12 string outings. I used to jam along with Sing Hallelujah which is on YT from the album Strange Country.

  • @scottsweet501
    @scottsweet501 2 місяці тому

    I’ve been playing 12 strings for 58 years. I have always tuned standard with no problems with one exception. I am a luthier and know how to set it up properly. Thank you for identifying the “idiot wrap” on the string posts. I tune starting with the D string then G then B then A then high E then low E. I go through this process at least three times at a gig and have very little re-tuning over the course of the gig. I play at least 50% of my tunes on my 12. Currently a Taylor jumbo that was not built with electronics. I’ve been putting pickups in acoustic guitars since the mid 70’s, so I disagree about piezos. BTW, everything forward of the X brace is dead as far as affecting the sound. All of the sound is produced from the X brace to the end block. I was glad to see you adjust the truss rod with full tension on the strings. Filing the nut requires finesse and making sure to file at a down angle so that the back edge of the nut towards the first fret is the point where the string touches the nut last, otherwise the string can vibrate somewhere along the slot and cause an irritating buzz.

  • @rhsilverberg
    @rhsilverberg 2 місяці тому

    Yup, that second course G, typically an .008, gets me more than I care to admit. You called it, man.

  • @ravenslaves
    @ravenslaves 3 місяці тому +6

    Esteban needs a reboot. Bring them back!
    They're just as good as a $4k Martin.
    I know this because Esteban himself told me in the infomercial.
    The sound hole is _round_ . Just like a Martin.
    It takes a strap. Just like a Martin.
    It even comes with frets...just like a Martin. Plus, they're shiny (just like a Martin).
    Besides, who doesn't automatically look cooler when they wear a sombrero when they play guitar?
    I like to wear mine when I go bowling, and I get all the attention from the ladies when I hit the clubs. Snazzy!!!

    • @PhantomOfTheMall
      @PhantomOfTheMall 3 місяці тому +1

      Plus, as everyone knows, Eddie Van Halen learned to play guitar from Esteban! So, being a Guitar God that’s taught other Guitar Gods, you can trust everything that Esteban says about guitars…

    • @ravenslaves
      @ravenslaves 3 місяці тому +1

      @@PhantomOfTheMall Not just guitars, either.
      ...not just guitars.

    • @lestergeez4349
      @lestergeez4349 3 місяці тому +1

      Hahahaha!!! 😂

    • @Fixologist1
      @Fixologist1 3 місяці тому +1

      Esteban was a warrior poet. And also possibly related to Gloria.

    • @wilhelmrogue1
      @wilhelmrogue1 3 місяці тому

      yesssss!

  • @pkjmfineart1593
    @pkjmfineart1593 2 місяці тому +1

    Gee I had my doubts initially but it sounds very nice indeed. I play Maton 12s costing twenty times more+ than the Fesley, but my first 12, a Riviera, cost $69 waaay back.
    She lives in the wardrobe next to the Matons to this day.
    The Fesley is just responding to a bit of precise TLC and wants to be loved. 😁

  • @onlybugwit
    @onlybugwit 2 місяці тому +1

    Brilliant! I've learned a lot 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

  • @theo9952
    @theo9952 2 місяці тому

    The 12 string acoustic guitar in the right hands sounds just amazing. I have a fine 12 string which i bought some 20 years ago, but I have given up playing it for the last two years. Even perfectly adjusted, it is a hard instrument to play and do justice to, for me at least. Too much strain on my hands and I am never going to be Ralph Towner. Now i use it as a 6-string. Works fine.

  • @moontheloon1969
    @moontheloon1969 3 місяці тому +4

    Ernie ball do a nice slinky set, i use a 9 gauge for a g, i have a 69 eko, they actuallt pop- rivet the bridge on!

  • @alnorman4802
    @alnorman4802 Місяць тому

    wonderful playing, brings back memories,,, can you review an 8 string acoustic ? some times known as a Yotar

  • @TheFULLMETALCHEF
    @TheFULLMETALCHEF 3 місяці тому +1

    Very enjoyable with just the pro tips being worth it. Imma check them geetars out.

  • @BobcatWolfenstein
    @BobcatWolfenstein Місяць тому

    I'm reminded of my project Takemine I pulled out of my Bro-in-Law's garage, it's been a chore, but once it's set right, it sings like a bird

  • @christopherohara68
    @christopherohara68 Місяць тому

    I have a Conrad made in Japan 12 string I bought in a Mississippi pawn shop. I made a tailpiece out of sheet metal from a water cooler. I have 6 string held in by bridge pins & 6 from the tail piece that go over the bridge to the saddle. So 6 strings hold the bridge down & 6 are pulling the bridge up. I cut grooves in the bridge to have a good angle on the saddle for the tailpiece 6. It works well. Whatdaya think?

  • @pianoman4rent
    @pianoman4rent 2 місяці тому

    I don't know if you want feedback or not but I'll put some in and it can be ignored or used. Overall I think that this was a pretty good video. A couple things stood out that taught me some things and I saw some age-old rookie things that many people do and they aren't super bad things but here goes. I would guess that about 95% of people don't know how to properly use a file. A file generally has teeth or cutting edges and most people, when filing, move the file back and forth. This is something I learned many years ago so indulge an old man here. When you file, only put slight pressure on the file and know how the "teeth" on your file are. Usually, you file in only one direction and that is typically determined by holding the file in your hand and apply slight pressure and move the file away from the handle, if you have a handle and if not, move the file away from the gripping part. Picture holding the file in your hand with your index finger pointing towards the end of the file, away from the grip or handle. A file used in this type of work and even with metal is designed to only "cut" one way. The reason why this is important is that it extends the life of the file and if you want to go to the lengths of using the file best, in the way it's designed and have the file work the best is to have a cloth, like a rough washcloth draped over your leg or arm of a chair so you can wipe filings off your file. Keeping your file clean from buildup and filing in only one direction allows you accuracy and keeps any buildup from affecting your adjustments. This may seem like a lot of trouble but if you establish practices like this, you will not be hesitant to work on any guitar from a cheapie to an expensive Martin plus it becomes second nature and actually allows you to work faster, easier and more efficient and accurately. If you do this, you don't risk buildup to affect your adjustments in a negative way by having to file and measure as much and it eliminates the risk of buildup affecting your work. Trust me, you may hate it at first but will be glad you did it, down the road. Also wipe your files often and you can even buy a file cleaner, which is like a wire brush but designed to clean files so clean them often as properly cleaned and maintained tools are just a good practice.
    My preference in tuning a guitar is to press down on the string you are tuning with your fingers on your picking hand. Since I started doing this about 35 or 40 years ago, I think I may have broken one string. This takes the slack out while tuning and allows the string tension to be less and I find that when I am finishing the fine tuning it takes less time, the strings stay tuned better and the strings break less. I play both electric and acoustic guitar and I do pretty drastic bends and again, I don't break strings.
    Thanks for the tips on filing the nut towards the peg of the string. I appreciate your sharing your knowledge as even a 60 year pro learned something. I feel that sharing knowledge is how I learned and hope to pass my knowledge and experience along as I have worked on many guitars that people that have played for years wouldn't have attempted so for you younger guys, start on cheaper guitars and grow your experience.
    Never fear knowledge and share your successes and screw-ups with others as everyone wins.
    Thanks again for the video and hope I added and didn't piss you off.😂

  • @jamescassidy4045
    @jamescassidy4045 2 місяці тому +1

    Nice!
    I actually found a 1965 Ibanez(Martin Lawsuit) Acoustic Guitar in the Thrift Store(6 String), but it actually ended up having those bridge screws also, which is interesting. I've never really seen them on a 6 String before.
    At the store, I still didn't know much about it, because there was only a worn sticker inside that you could just barely tell said Ibanez, and nothing on the headstock, but I actually thought maybe the bridge screws were a repair at some point, but also the belly didn't look bad at all. Once I got home, my buddy ended up finding it in the 60's Catalog, and sure enough it had the bridge screws. It's definitely in my top 3 Thrift Store finds.

    • @TheGuitologist
      @TheGuitologist  2 місяці тому +2

      Pretty sure you mean 1975. Ibanez (Hoshino) didn't make anything like that in 1965. Pretty sure, at least. EDIT: I looked it up second guessing myself, and you're right, they did make a line of dreadnought acoustics in 65. Learn something every day! Thanks!

    • @jamescassidy4045
      @jamescassidy4045 2 місяці тому

      @@TheGuitologist Hey, thanks Brad. Ya, I was super surprised too! I don't know how correct I am in saying it's a Martin Lawsuit tho, but that's just the vibe it gave me, so I dunno if Ii'm just making that up lol. I just hoped it might make a good studio guitar.
      It's actually in really playable condition, nothing really stands out except the Low E goes wildly sharp, so I need to figure that out! Other than that though, the action is not bad at all, no buzzing, frets are great.