String Tension

[Ken Koellner]

Working on planning a build for an 8-string lap steel tuned in A6 -- F#AC#EF#AC#E. I'll probably go with a 24-25" scale length so it's pretty close to my square-neck resonator. I'm curious what is advised for string tension. Once I set the scale length I can use one of the online string calculators to figure out gauges, then if there's a pre-made set, close buy it, and if not, put together a custom set.

[Ken Koellner]

I started with what I have on my reso 6-string for GBDGBD. I decided to try for G-6 tuning instead of A-6 so I just added two E strings. So I'm starting with the same tension as my acoustic. Anyone have an opinion if that's a good starting point for lap steel?[/img]

[Les Ford]

Cindy Cashdollar's website has a lot of options for tuning and gauges.