Strings for C6 versus A7 tuning

[David Famularo]

Hi There

Does one use the same strings for lap steels in the C6 and A7 tunings or different ones. I have recently bought a second lap steel, originally intended to use as my primary C6 tuning guitar but have decided to stick with the original and convert the other one to A7 tuning as I came across a copy of Keoloha's Modern Harmony Method for Hawaiian Steel Guitar (1935) in A7 tuning in a collectables shop in Wellington New Zealand

[Jeff Mead]

Depends of what version of C6 (high G or high E for example) and what version of A7.

Certainly if your C6 is ECAG and your A7 is EC#AG you'll be fine with the same strings!

[David Famularo]

Thanks for your reply Jeff - in the book the A7 tuning is (from the top) E C# A E C# G

[Jeff Mead]

Thanks for your reply Jeff - in the book the A7 tuning is (from the top) E C# A E C# G

In that case I'd say use different string gauges on strings 4-6 at least.

[Jim Sliff]

If you search online there are about a dozen charts that list gages for each note; also some where you can enter information to ensure the tension isn't too high or weirdly imbalance.

[David Famularo]

Thanks Jim and Jeff

[Mick Hearn]

On my 10 string C6 I use the SIT sets but on the National C6 neck I use La Bella 8 string sets. They are a little heavier and as they state balanced. Tried the SIT (sacrificing 2 strings) on the C6 National but sounded a little thinner. Shorter scale at 23".