Tuning a Roundneck to Squareneck Tuning

Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 10:31:58 EDT
Subject: Roundneck tuned like a square

I've been learning on a roundneck Johnson tuned to the DBGDBG (open G) tuning, but after reading your FAQ's, I vwonder if this will damage it. What do you think? ...and does it make a difference in neck strength if there is a truss rod in the neck?

Thanks,
Mark Wesley

P.S.
If I switch to roundneck tuning how will this affect what I have learned so far?

Thanks again

Greetings Mark,

Yes, you want to be extra careful with the higher G open tuning from low end string to high: G B D G B D....roundneck guitars really weren't designed to take this much stress. If you're elevating the strings for lap style playing, with an extension nut, you might find this tuning optimal...especially if you want to learn bluegrass style dobro. However, if you're playing in roundneck fashion, similar to a regular acoustic guitar, my suggestion would be to experiment with the D G D G B D tuning...it's far less stressful on a roundneck guitar's neck. Now, considering you're playing an inexpensive Johnson, it might still be worth using your roundneck as a squareneck if your goal is to learn to play bluegrass; the real problem with the G B D G B D tuning, would be if you're using it on a vintage instrument...worth too much to take a chance with...

Hope this helps, Mickey