Tuning a JP to C

[Hendog]

If I tune my JP to C and switch to 12's will I have to adjust anything or will the increased tension of the 12's balance out the lower tunigs?

Will 12's fit in my nut?

 

[TheShreddinHand]

Yes, you will need to level the bridge so it's flush to the body. You may need to adjust neck bow and action as well.

 

[petruccirocks02]

You may have to file the nut to accommodate the bigger string guage. If you use the Not Even Slinkys, you may not have to adjust the truss rod, but there's always a chance that you will. Also, keep in mind that you'll need to re-do the intonation as well.

-Phil

 

[fsmith]

I think you'll have to do both, the nut will probably need to be filed to accept the 12's, it comes from the factory cut for 10's and that's a pretty big jump in size. I'd be careful that you don't try and tune up with 12's without at least running the strings back and forth through the nut slots a bit so you don't end up cracking the nut.

The trem and or truss rod will also need to be adjusted to suit your style. I'm not sure how low you like your action.

There's a reason John has so many guitars and they're all set up for a certain string gauge and tuning. It's not something you'll want to do often.

If it's not something you want to tackle on your own, I know of a really good luthier in the Baltimore area who can make it right for you.

Good luck,
fred

 

[bkrumme]

You'll need a full set-up if you change string gauge and tuning. Even if everything looks right when you do the swap, I'd set it up just to be sure.

 

[Hendog]

Wow. Maybe I should just get a 7 string after all!

 

[patpark]

the nut is cut for 10-46 so they will need to be widened or the strings won't sit properly in the slot, plus they'll bind during bending and trem use.

you will certainly need to re-adjust the float of the trem and the truss rod.

 

[bkrumme]

Wow. Maybe I should just get a 7 string after all!

You only have to do the setup once...unless you switch it back.

Here's a link to the string gauges JP uses for all his tunings:

The Official John Petrucci Web Site

You might get away with putting 11's on it for C, but they may be a little too floppy.

 

[the24thfret]

What about an extra spring in the back? Or is that just for 12+?

 

[bkrumme]

What about an extra spring in the back? Or is that just for 12+?

He may or may not need an extra spring, most likely not since he's using thicker strings at a lower tuning.

I still recommend a full setup when switching string gauge and tuning, especially when switching both at the same time.