Need advice on string gauge/tension

[onetubetone]

So my string of choice for my Larrivee LV-03K has been Newtone Masterclass, and I've been using the "light" set, which is 11-50. Recently I've realized that I enjoy playing alot more in lower-tension tunings... Eb standard, DADGAD, etc. And I've realized that with this lower tension, I can surely handle playing a heavier guage string. My problem is, I can't decided on which set of Newtones to get. I know I'll be able to handle the medium/light set, which is .012 .016 .024 .032 .042 .052

 

However, I really like the way the string gauges are set up on their medium custim set: .013 .017 .024 .032 .042 .055

which has smaller lower mid strings, a bigger bass string, and standard medium sized G B and hE. Which I believe would work well for my style. I just am not sure if I'll be able to handle the 13s.

 

So what do you guys think? Just go for the 12s which I know I can handle, or check out the probably tonally better 13s???

[desaljs]

If you are tuning down, I think you will be good with the 13's. That thicker bass string will not get as floppy when tuned down.

I think it is great that you are playing in some altered tunings. I use Eb standard on my 12-strings.

[onetubetone]

Thanks! Any other opinions???

[digitalsnipe]

About all I have to say is that I don't have much experience with light gauge. I've always used mediums - more of my tone. Yea, it's a bit more work on the left hand but you are notching down your tuning (tension) a half step so that may help some. For years I played a 12 one whole step down and used medium strings - people thought me nuts - but I think you could suspend a bridge from a Guild 12. Now it's hard to find medium 12 string sets at stores.

I am eye-balling a Larrivee LV10E and I notice factory setups are with light gauge. If you switch to mediums, or a hybrid gauge setup, let me know what you learn.