lap Steel Tuning

Robert J. Wood · Post by **Robert J. Wood** » 6 Jan 2006 10:50 am

In Don Helm's Book 'Your Cheatin' Heart' his E13th Tuning is E G# B C# E G# (low to hi) Surfing the internet I found another E13th Tuning in a different sequence, same strings except the D replaced the Don Helm's low G#.
(B D E G# C# E) Low to Hi. What makes the difference between the two tunings, ease of playing, the sound, etc? Robert J. Wood Bellingham, WA

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Mike Neer · Post by **Mike Neer** » 6 Jan 2006 10:55 am

The first tuning you listed is an E6, because it has no 7th in it. An E13 would at the very least contain the notes E G# B C# and D.

The 13th degree doesn't exist without there first being a 7th degree--otherwise, it's just a 6th degree, even though they are the same note.

Robert J. Wood · Post by **Robert J. Wood** » 6 Jan 2006 1:01 pm

My thanks to Mike Neer.

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Jeff Au Hoy · Post by **Jeff Au Hoy** » 6 Jan 2006 2:46 pm

I think the first one you listed would be easier to play, easier to get lots of 2 string harmonies (slants etc.)... since it's more evenly voiced (in 3rds). The latter tuning has the big leap of a 4th in it (between the G# and C#). Strum-wise, the first tuning will give a more closed-voice (less "open") sound too.<font size="1" color="#8e236b"><p align="center">[This message was edited by Jeff Au Hoy on 06 January 2006 at 02:48 PM.]</p></FONT>

Robert J. Wood · Post by **Robert J. Wood** » 6 Jan 2006 5:23 pm

Thanks, Jeff! I am awaiting arrival of my Artisan Lap Steel Guitar, Metallic Black w/stand. Will get it tuned-up with Don Helms tuning. I'm anxious to begin tabbing the harmony on songs I have written.

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Ray Montee · Post by **Ray Montee** » 7 Jan 2006 10:34 am

WHY? Are you anxious to start tabbing a song you've already written?

If you know the melody line, why not simply start trying to play it? Don't understand the extra steps and work involved here.