Advice on Higher tension strings

plunker · Feb 2, 2018

I have played using Southcoast Ukulele LML-NW strings on my tenor uke. I have changed to D'AddarioEJ*&T looking for a warmer sound. I know the Pono MTD is pretty warm sounding to begin with. The D'Addrio strings feel to be of higher tension. Any tips on making the adjustments, or just play until l get used to it.

EDW · Feb 2, 2018

Did you try any other Southcoast offerings?They have lots to choose from. Dirk is always helpful if you have questions.

plunker · Feb 2, 2018

EDW said:
Did you try any other Southcoast offerings?They have lots to choose from. Dirk is always helpful if you have questions.

Thanks, never thought of that

Jim Hanks · Feb 3, 2018

Warmer than low G on a tenor. Hmm, you could try tuning down the LML down a half step or two. Of corse that would lower the tension. The thicker sets start getting into wound strings so might be brighter because of that.

Could also try Worth browns which are the standard "I want warmer" answer

Ukulele Eddie · Feb 3, 2018

Jim Hanks said:
Warmer than low G on a tenor. Hmm, you could try tuning down the LML down a half step or two. Of corse that would lower the tension. The thicker sets start getting into wound strings so might be brighter because of that.

Could also try Worth browns which are the standard "I want warmer" answer

^^^ This. Try tuning down to Bb (F-Bb-D-G). Dirk has an article on his Southcoast strings site that explains that C is too close to the natural resonance of many tenor-sized ukes. So he advises tuning down. I have all off my tenors tuned Bb except one (Blackbird, which I tune B).

plunker · Feb 3, 2018

Ukulele Eddie said:
^^^ This. Try tuning down to Bb (F-Bb-D-G). Dirk has an article on his Southcoast strings site that explains that C is too close to the natural resonance of many tenor-sized ukes. So he advises tuning down. I have all off my tenors tuned Bb except one (Blackbird, which I tune B).

If I do this, does that mean all music needs to be transposed, or do I just play the chords and fingering I learn if I play by myself?

EDW · Feb 3, 2018

You only need to transpose if you are playing with others. If you are alone it is fine, but all chords or notes are now a step lower. Many tenors sound great tuned to Bb.

Tootler · Feb 4, 2018

If you're playing with others, put a capo on the second fret and Bingo! Instant GCEA. No retuning or transposimg necessary. I use the same method to get ADF#B tuning on my concert and tenor ukes.

I'm asuming Bb tuning. If it's just down a semitone to B the capo,goes on 1, of course.

Croaky Keith · Feb 4, 2018

Have you tried DGBE on it, same as a baritone, some of us quite like it on a tenor scale.

Advice on Higher tension strings

plunker

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EDW

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plunker

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Jim Hanks

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Ukulele Eddie

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plunker

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EDW

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Tootler

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Croaky Keith

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