F-holes

Tune your 12-string up to full pitch. Even if it's a cheap one.

And be sure to use some meaty strings to maximize the volume. At least .12 or .13 for the E strings should do the trick!

Household sponges. Don't bother cutting them to form.

Feed them in sideways. Then fold the excess over and tuck it into one side of the F-hole. It will expand to fill up the space. Where it has been tucked and folded, it will provide a more dense plug than fully expanded foam.

D'Addario. Especially the Series I(nickel) strings. They feel a little smoother than the stainless steel Series II strings. I also go lighter than I do on the electric because tension has a profound effect on string height/action on the acoustic bass guitar.

That's what I use!

Just take off that stupid Lexan scratch guard. It's really nothing more than a big piece of packaging tape. Great for the tone! I put 1/2round strings on it, so it produces a darker warmer tone, like that of an upright. It also eliminates string rattle, so a more aggressive attack may be used.

Jorma Kaukanen

Leo Kottke

John Fahey

Preston Reed

Ralph Towner.

http://www.dougsplugs.com/